Starting with the dumplings, combine flour, salt, shortening and hot water and mix until a soft dough is formed.

You can add seasonings like garlic or cilantro if you like. With floured hands, roll dough into small balls, then roll out on a floured board with a rolling pin until thin.

Bring soup ingredients to a boil and drop dumplings into boiling broth. Simmer until dumplings are done.