Soft, steamed and made to soak up gravy, dumplings can turn a simple supper into a more substantial meal.

Dombolo is one of those South African recipes that is made for a pot of stew or curry bubbling away on the stove.

Soft, steamed and made to soak up gravy, these dumplings can turn a simple supper into a more substantial meal.

And with icy weather gripping parts of South Africa and snow falling in several areas, including parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, the timing could hardly be better for a recipe that is best served hot.

These South African dumplings are made from a simple yeast dough, with grated carrot and turmeric adding colour and flavour. Instead of baking the dough in an oven, it is steamed until soft and fluffy.