Published:
Sep 5th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Aug 20th 2025
Trinidad Dumplings bring an authentic taste of the Caribbean straight to your table. These delicious, unfilled dumplings are made with simple ingredients like flour, salt, and water, creating a versatile, comforting addition to any stew, soup, or curry. Shaped into either finger-length pieces or flat disks, Trini Dumplings capture the flavors of Trinidad & Tobago in each bite. Perfectly chewy and easy to make, they are a staple in many traditional Caribbean dishes and pair wonderfully with hearty meals like Curry Crab or Saltfish.
This recipe for Trini Dumplings brings authentic Caribbean flavor to your table with minimal effort. Made from simple ingredients, they are quick to prepare and versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Enjoy them fresh or make ahead for a convenient addition to your meals throughout the week.
Key nutrients
- Carbohydrates: from all-purpose flour — provide energy for daily activities.
- Protein: from all-purpose flour — supports muscle maintenance and repair.
- Iron: from all-purpose flour — helps carry oxygen in the blood.
- Electrolytes: from salt — help maintain fluid balance in the body.
- Healthy fats: from coconut milk (if used) — contribute to satiety and flavor.
Why it matters
- Carbohydrates fuel the brain and muscles during activity.
- Iron is important for energy and overall vitality.
- Including a variety of ingredients can boost nutrient diversity.
Balance & portion
Aim for a balanced plate (vegetables, protein, smart carbs). Choose portions that fit your needs.
What to watch
- Refined flour — lower in fiber than whole grain options; pair with fiber-rich sides.
- Sodium — salt adds flavor but can add up if combined with salty dishes.
Make it even better
- Use whole wheat or part-whole wheat flour for more fiber and nutrients.
- Add fresh herbs or spices for extra antioxidants and flavor without extra salt.
- Serve with vegetables or lean protein to create a more balanced meal.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- EatRight — Nutrition - Used for general nutrient roles and dietary balance guidance.
- CDC — Nutrition - Referenced for information on carbohydrates, iron, and sodium importance.
Best fit
- Lacto Vegetarian: Contains no animal products except for optional coconut milk.
- Vegan: Recipe is fully plant-based if coconut milk or water is used.
- Low Cholesterol: Contains no cholesterol-rich ingredients.
Use with caution / avoid
- Gluten: Made with all-purpose flour; not suitable for gluten-free diets unless modified.
- Refined Flour: Uses white flour, which is lower in fiber and nutrients than whole grain options.
- Carbohydrate Content: May not suit low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets; portion size matters.
Helpful modifications
- Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
- Reduce added sugar or omit to lower overall sugar content.
- Add chopped herbs or spices for extra flavor without added salt or fat.
Pair with: Steamed vegetables or a lean protein (like grilled fish or beans) to boost fiber and balance the meal.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
Contains: Wheat (Gluten), Tree Nuts (Coconut).
-
Wheat (Gluten)
Where it appears: All-purpose flour.
Swap: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
-
Tree Nuts (Coconut)
Where it appears: Coconut milk (if used).
Swap: Use water or a nut-free plant milk alternative.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
References
- FDA — Food Allergies - For information on the Big 9 allergens and labeling requirements.
Clean
- Wash hands with soap and water before handling ingredients or kneading dough.
- Clean all bowls, utensils, and surfaces before and after preparing the dough.
- Rinse measuring cups and spoons before use to avoid cross-contamination.
Separate
- Keep raw dough away from ready-to-eat foods and cooked dishes.
- Use separate utensils for mixing dough and serving cooked dumplings.
Cook
- Boil dumplings in water or soup for at least 15-20 minutes until firm and springy.
- Ensure dumplings are fully cooked before serving; they should not be doughy inside.
Chill
- Cool leftover dumplings quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use refrigerated leftovers within 2 days for best safety and quality.
References
- Trini dumplings are unfilled, chewy dough pieces often served in soups, stews, or curries across Trinidad & Tobago.
- Shaping dumplings into fingers or disks helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the broth or sauce.
- Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture, offering a traditional Caribbean twist to the basic dough.
- Resting the dough before shaping makes the dumplings softer and less dense after cooking.
Name & origins
Trinidad dumplings are a staple in Trinidad & Tobago cuisine, often enjoyed with hearty dishes like curry crab or saltfish.
Ingredient spotlight
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and gives the dumplings their signature chewy bite.
- Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a mild coconut flavor when used instead of water.
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor, balancing the simple dough ingredients.
Technique tidbit
Kneading develops gluten in the dough, creating a springy texture that holds up well in soups and stews.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process.
- Ensure your pot of water is boiling before adding the dumplings.
- Use room temperature coconut milk for better mixing.
During cooking
- Check for a firm, springy texture to know when dumplings are done.
- Look for dumplings that float to the surface as a sign of readiness.
- Avoid over-kneading to prevent tough dumplings.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Add dumplings to simmering soup to refresh and soften when reheating.
Common mistakes
- Skip resting the dough → results in tough dumplings; always let it rest.
- Add too much flour → leads to dry dumplings; measure accurately.
Serve with
- Steamed rice or coconut rice for a hearty base to soak up flavors.
- Fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Spicy mango chutney to enhance the dumplings' flavor profile.
Toppings & textures
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- A squeeze of lime juice to add brightness and acidity.
Occasions
- Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Substitutions
- If you lack all-purpose flour, use gluten-free flour for a similar texture without gluten.
- For a dairy-free option, coconut milk can replace water, adding creaminess and flavor.
Variations
- Incorporate spices like garlic powder or paprika for a flavorful twist on traditional dumplings.
- Add finely chopped herbs such as chives or cilantro to enhance freshness and flavor in this recipe.
Refrigerate
- Allow dumplings to cool before placing in an airtight container.
- Use within 2 days for best quality and flavor.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended; dumplings may become soggy upon thawing.
Reheat
- Add dumplings to simmering soup or stew until heated through.
- For added moisture, include a splash of broth while reheating.
Repurpose ideas
- Chop and add to a stir-fry for a unique texture and flavor.
- Use as a base for a savory breakfast bowl with eggs and veggies.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dumpling dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- Salt: Adds a subtle flavor to the dough, enhancing the overall taste.
- Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the flavors and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Water or Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and slight sweetness; water keeps it traditional and simple.
Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make gluten-free Trini Dumplings.
What can I use instead of coconut milk?
Water is a classic option, but you could also use almond or oat milk for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Trini Dumplings
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add water or coconut milk while kneading until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rest: Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for another 10 minutes to allow the dough to relax.
- Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into pieces. Roll each into a snake-like shape and cut into 1-inch sections or shape into finger-length pieces with tapered ends.
- Cook the Dumplings: Place the dumplings in boiling water or directly into your soup or stew. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until they have a firm, springy texture. Serve warm with your chosen dish.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Sugar
1/2 cup Water or Coconut Milk
Instructions
Sift together, using a fine mesh strainer, the flour, salt, and sugar into a large bowl to evenly disperse the flour.
Slowly add your liquid while kneading until it starts to come away from the sides of the bowl and becomes dough.
Empty the bowl onto a clean work surface and knead all the ingredients together to form a dough ball.
Knead for 10 minutes, then set aside, cover, and allow it to rest for another 10 minutes. Shape the dough into your desired shape.
Place into your soup, stew, or pot of boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes or until it has a firm springy texture.
Serve with your dish or remove from the boiling water, strain and serve according to your dish and enjoy.
NOTE - Coconut milk will add sweetness and coconut flavoring to the dumpling.
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My friend use to make…
My friend used to make dumpling soup using grated casava/frozen yuca. She may have also used flour, are you familiar with this and can you give me a recipe for this. She added them to yellow pea soup