How to Make Dumplings (Dombolo): A Traditional South African Recipe

Unlike baked bread, dombolo is steamed in a pot over simmering food, allowing it to absorb delicious flavours from the dish below. The result is a light, airy, and moist dumpling that soaks up stews beautifully.

The dough is simple to make, using basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and warm water or milk. Once kneaded and left to rise, the dough is either shaped into small balls or placed as a whole piece in a steaming basket or inside the pot of stew.

This recipe guarantees soft, pillowy dombolo that pairs well with dishes like beef stew, chicken curry, or even buttered as a snack. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cosy family meal, dombolo is the perfect addition to your plate. Let’s make this delicious, traditional dumpling step by step!

Preparation Time 

• Mixing & Kneading: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
• Steaming Time: 30–50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours

Ingredients for Dumplings (Dombolo)

• 4 cups cake flour (or plain flour)
• 2 tsp instant dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1½ cups warm water or milk (adjust if needed)

Directions to Make South African dombolo (dumplings)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the butter or oil and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add the warm water or milk, mixing with a wooden spoon or hands until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead & Let It Rise

1. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Cover the dough with a clean damp cloth and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape the Dombolo

1. Once risen, gently punch down the dough.
2. Divide into small dumpling-sized balls or leave as one large round dough, depending on preference.

Step 4: Steam the Dumplings

Method 1: Steaming Over a Stew

1. Place the dumpling dough directly on top of a simmering stew (such as beef or chicken stew).
2. Cover the pot with a lid, ensuring no steam escapes.
3. Let the dumplings steam for 30–40 minutes until soft and cooked through.

Method 2: Steaming in a Separate Pot

1. Fill a large pot with water, about a third full, and bring to a simmer.
2. Place the dough in a greased metal or heatproof bowl and put it inside the pot on a trivet or stand.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 40–50 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure there’s enough water.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the dombolo from the pot and let it cool slightly before slicing.
2. Serve warm with stews, curries, or soups for a hearty meal.

How to Prepare Dumplings

The key to light, fluffy dombolo is allowing the dough to rise properly before steaming. Kneading the dough well helps develop a soft texture, and steaming ensures the dumplings stay moist and tender.

For added flavour, you can mix in herbs, grated cheese, or garlic into the dough before steaming. If making dombolo over a stew, ensure the lid stays closed to trap the steam and cook the dumplings evenly.

To check if the dumplings are done, insert a skewer into one—it should come out clean when fully cooked.

Servings

This recipe makes 6–8 large dumplings, enough for 4–6 people.

FAQs for Dumplings (Dombolo)

Can I make dombolo without yeast?

Yes! You can use self-raising flour and baking powder instead of yeast. This will create a slightly different texture but still be soft and delicious.

Can I make dombolo ahead of time?

Dombolo is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a damp paper towel.

How do I make dombolo softer?

For extra softness, use warm milk instead of water and knead the dough well. Letting the dough rise fully before steaming also helps achieve a fluffier texture.

Can I freeze dombolo?

Yes! Let the dombolo cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by steaming before serving.

What can I serve with dombolo?

Dombolo pairs well with hearty stews (beef, chicken, or lamb), curries, soups, or even with butter and jam for a snack.

Conclusion 

Dombolo is a South African favourite, bringing warmth, tradition, and flavour to the table. This soft, fluffy steamed bread is perfect for soaking up rich stews and curries, making it a comforting side dish for family meals.

The simple ingredients and easy steaming method make this a foolproof recipe for home cooks. Whether you choose to steam the dumplings over a stew or in a separate pot, the result is always light, airy, and delicious.

Dombolo is a versatile dish—you can add herbs, cheese, or even a touch of sugar for different variations. Whether served with beef stew, tomato gravy, or just butter, this traditional dumpling is always a hit.

Now that you know how to make authentic South African dombolo, why not try it today? Gather your ingredients, steam up a pot, and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this beloved dish. Serve it hot and fresh, and share with family and friends for the ultimate home-cooked experience. Enjoy!