Cornmeal Dumplings

Makes about 8 medium dumplings.

Cornmeal dumplings are excellent on many kinds of stews and have a more interesting flavor than plain flour dumplings. You certainly can add other dried or fresh herbs and spices, depending on the seasonings in the stew. These dumplings are particularly easy because you use a packaged baking mix.

1 1/3 cups packaged baking mix, such as Bisquick or Jiffy
2/3 cup cornmeal
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried parsley leaves, crushed
Pepper to taste
2/3 cup milk plus more if needed

Mix together all of the dry ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined. Add the 2/3 cup milk and stir just until combined. If the dough seems too dry, add a little more milk just until well moistened. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the top of a simmering stew over low heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, uncovered. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until dumplings are dry in the center.