Mince and dumplings are a classic comfort food that is sure to warm the hearts and bellies of anyone who tries it. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Best of all, you can make it in the oven, allowing you to enjoy a hands-free cooking experience. So, if you’re ready to treat yourself to a delicious, home-cooked meal, let’s get started on making some mouthwatering mince and dumplings.

To begin, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: minced beef, onions, carrots, peas, beef stock, flour, suet, and seasoning. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add in some herbs and spices to really elevate the flavor of the dish. Once you have all of your ingredients gathered, it’s time to start cooking.

The first step is to preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is heating up, you can start preparing the mince filling. Begin by browning the minced beef in a large, oven-safe casserole dish over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked through, add in the onions, carrots, and peas, and cook until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Next, it’s time to add the beef stock to the casserole dish. This will create a rich, flavorful gravy that will infuse the mince with even more deliciousness. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly.

While the mince filling is simmering, you can start making the dumplings. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, suet, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add in enough cold water to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Once the dough has come together, gently roll it into small, golf-ball-sized balls.

Now that the mince filling and dumpling dough are ready, it’s time to assemble everything in the casserole dish. Carefully place each dumpling on top of the mince mixture, making sure to leave a bit of space between each one. Once all of the dumplings are in place, cover the casserole dish with a lid or some foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Now, all that’s left to do is sit back, relax, and let the oven work its magic. Allow the mince and dumplings to cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden and cooked through. Once the dish is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

When you’re ready to dig in, spoon generous helpings of the mince and dumplings onto plates, and prepare to be blown away by the deliciousness of this dish. The hearty mince filling combined with the fluffy, flavorful dumplings is a match made in heaven, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face with every bite.

In conclusion, making mince and dumplings in the oven is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without a lot of fuss. With just a few simple ingredients and some hands-off cooking time, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So, the next time you’re craving some serious comfort food, consider whipping up a batch of mince and dumplings in the oven. You won’t regret it!