MINCE & DUMPLINGS

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan or flameproof casserole dish.

Step 2

Cook the onion, garlic, celery and carrots for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly colour.

Step 3

Add the beef and cook with the vegetables for another 5 minutes until the mince is no longer pink.

Step 4

Stir regularly to break up the meat.

Step 5

Add the tomatoes, tomato puree, beef stock, red wine, sugar and bay leaf.

Step 6

Season with a good pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper.

Step 7

Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally

Step 8

To make the dumplings, put the flour in a bowl and stir in the suet, salt and parsley.

Step 9

Make a well in the centre and add enough cold water - - you'll need about 200ml - to make a soft, spongy dough.

Step 10

Lightly flour your hands and roll the dumpling mixture into 12 small balls.

Step 11

Stir the mince well and remove it from the heat.

Step 12

Drop the dumplings carefully on top of the mince.

Step 13

Cook for 18–20 minutes or until the dumplings are well risen and light.