A traditional Jamaican dish — Fried Dumplings, or doughboys, are the golden, pillowy rounds that anchor every Jamaican breakfast plate. Crisp on the outside, soft and airy inside, they are the perfect sponge for ackee and saltfish or a runny egg. No Saturday morning fry-up is complete without them.
Fried Dumplings
A traditional Jamaican dish — Fried Dumplings, or doughboys, are the golden, pillowy rounds that anchor every Jamaican breakfast plate.

Step by stepInstructions
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar together in a bowl.
- Add the water (or milk) and melted butter, and mix into a soft, smooth dough; knead gently for 1 minute.
- Cover and rest the dough for 10 minutes so the gluten relaxes.
- Divide the dough into 8 balls and flatten each into a round about ½ inch (1 cm) thick.
- Heat 1 inch (2.5 cm) of oil over medium heat and fry the dumplings for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until puffed and deep golden.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with ackee and saltfish, callaloo, stewed chicken or a fried egg.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Fry over medium heat so the inside cooks through without burning the crust. A little sugar in the dough is the Jamaican touch — it balances the saltfish beautifully.

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