Created by ForeverMama on July 10, 2019
Step 1: Fry the onions, leek, garlic and celery in oil in a cast-iron casserole dish or large ovenproof saucepan until soft and slightly golden.
Step 2: Add in the pork and stir to brown. Add the apples and allow to fry for a couple of minutes, before generously seasoning. If you’re using dried sage, add it to the pot now, before pouring in the cider.
Step 3: Leave to simmer for 30 minutes or until tender, before stirring through with the fresh sage (if using) and prior to topping with dumplings.
Step 4: Combine the flour (there’s no need to sift it), butter or suet, salt, pepper and half of the cheese in a mixing bowl.
Step 5: Add enough water to make a dough and roll 8–10 dumplings between your hands. Pop them on top of your pork and apples, put on a lid and leave to simmer for a further 20 minutes.
Step 6: Just before serving, scatter over the remaining cheese and pop under a hot broiler until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden (keeping a very watchful eye so as not to have it burn. Goes perfect with a side of side green vegetables or some good roasted root veggies.
Step 7: *NOTE II: this recipe calls for a handful of sage, but it all depends on the size of your hand. I figure it's about 1/4 - to 1/2 cup.