Amish-Style Snow Day Soup

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
2. Add salt, pepper, dried thyme, and the bay leaf.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. If using shredded chicken, stir it in now to warm through.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be sticky but manageable.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Drop small spoonfuls of the dough directly into the simmering soup. You can make them about the size of a walnut.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer gently for 10–12 minutes. Do not lift the lid too often, or the dumplings may not cook evenly.
3. After cooking, the dumplings should be fluffy and tender, floating on top of the rich broth.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each portion has a mix of vegetables, broth, and at least one dumpling.

Tips for Perfect Amish-Style Snow Day Soup

• Vegetable Variations: Turnips, parsnips, or small cabbage pieces can add extra flavor and depth.
• For a Creamier Version: Stir in ½ cup of cream or whole milk after the dumplings are cooked.
• Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month. Dumplings are best added fresh when reheating.
• Herb Boost: Fresh parsley or dill sprinkled on top right before serving gives the soup a fresh, bright finish.

Why It’s Special

Amish-Style Snow Day Soup isn’t just about ingredients; it’s about the experience. The slow simmer, the smell of vegetables melding with the savory broth, and the tender dumplings conjure memories of snow days where comfort takes center stage. It’s a simple yet nourishing dish that turns a cold, gray day into a cozy culinary memory.

Whether served for lunch or as a warming dinner, this soup embodies the simplicity and heart of Amish cooking—a reminder that the best comfort often comes from humble ingredients and a little patience.

If you want, I can also make a shortcut version of this soup for busy snow days that tastes just as comforting but takes half the time to prepare.

Do you want me to do that?