Cornmeal Dumplings with Smoked Turkey and Greens
CaribbeanBrunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This vibrant Caribbean brunch dish brings together the comforting texture of golden cornmeal dumplings with the rich, smoky flavor of turkey breast and nutritious wilted greens. The dumplings are made from a simple mixture of cornmeal and flour, creating a tender yet substantial base that soaks up the savory juices from the turkey. Fresh turkey breast is seasoned with traditional Caribbean spices including allspice, scotch bonnet heat, and aromatic herbs before being pan-seared to perfection. The dish is completed with a medley of fresh spinach and kale, quickly wilted with garlic and a splash of citrus. This one-pot preparation showcases the resourceful cooking style of Caribbean home kitchens, where simple ingredients are transformed into deeply satisfying meals. Perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or special occasion brunches, this dish offers a protein-rich, fiber-filled start to the day while celebrating the bold flavors and wholesome ingredients of island cuisine.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Let rest for 10 minutes.

  2. While dough rests, season 500g turkey breast pieces with 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub seasonings into the meat thoroughly.

  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned turkey pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add 2 cups chopped spinach and 2 cups chopped kale to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.

  6. While greens cook, shape the rested dough into 8-10 small oval dumplings, about 2 inches long.

  7. In a separate large saucepan, bring 6 cups of salted water to a boil. Gently drop dumplings into boiling water. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they float to the surface and are cooked through.

  8. Drain dumplings and transfer to serving plates. Top with wilted greens and sliced turkey breast.

  9. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire dish and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

Cornmeal Dumplings with Smoked Turkey and Greens

4.6 (42)

Hearty Caribbean brunch featuring fluffy cornmeal dumplings served alongside tender smoked turkey breast and wilted greens, seasoned with island spices and fresh herbs for a satisfying morning meal.

medium
55 min
4 servings

Ingredients

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Dumplings

  • 1/2 cups flour, all-purpose

Protein

  • 500 grams turkey-breast, cut into 4 pieces

Greens

  • 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 cups kale, stems removed, chopped

Aromatics

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking Fat

  • 3 tablespoons olive-oil, divided

Seasonings

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoons cayenne, ground
  • 1 teaspoons paprika, ground
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided

Herbs

  • 1 teaspoons thyme, dried

Finishing

  • 2 pieces lime, juiced

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Chef Tips

expert advice
For extra flavor, marinate the turkey overnight in the spice mixture with a splash of lime juice.
The dumplings can be made slightly larger or smaller depending on preference - adjust cooking time accordingly.
If you prefer more heat, add finely minced scotch bonnet pepper to the greens while sautéing.
You can substitute the turkey with chicken breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Adding a spoonful of hot sauce at the table is traditional in many Caribbean households.
For a richer dish, brush the cooked dumplings with melted butter before serving.
The cornmeal dumplings can also be pan-fried after boiling for added texture and crispiness on the outside.
Cornmeal Dumplings with Smoked Turkey and Greens | Cuisinao