Madombi: Dumplings from Botswana

Steps

1. 1
   Step 1:

   Prepare a stew in a lidded, oven-proof pot; it should be at about 180°C or 350°F, without being at very high or very low heat.

2. 2
   Step 2:

   Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a measuring cup.

3. 3
   Step 3:

   Leave the water, sugar, and yeast mixture until foamy, about 5 minutes.

   5 min
4. 4
   Step 4:

   Add the flour and salt to the bowl of a stand mixer, or to a large bowl if mixing by hand.

5. 5
   Step 5:

   Stream in the water-yeast mixture while kneading.

6. 6
   Step 6:

   Knead for several minutes after the dough comes together, until a smooth ball of dough forms.

7. 7
   Step 7:

   Place the dough ball in an oiled bowl, cover, and leave to rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

   1 h
8. 8
   Step 8:

   Divide the risen dough into 10 equal portions for large dumplings, or 12 to 14 portions for smaller dumplings.

9. 9
   Step 9:

   Shape each portion of dough into a smooth, round ball.

10. 10
    Step 10:

    During the last 30 minutes of the stew's cooking time, place the shaped dumplings directly on top of the stew.

    30 min
11. 11
    Step 11:

    Gently push the dumplings down into the stew.

12. 12
    Step 12:

    Cover tightly and return the pot to the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the dumplings are risen and light golden.

    25–30 min