Cooking these dumplings is like going on a little culinary adventure. Follow these steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aromas of fall.

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, pumpkin puree, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
3. Spoon a small amount of the chicken and pumpkin mixture onto each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
5. Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
6. For a final touch, you can sauté the dumplings in a bit of butter until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. This step adds a lovely texture and a delicious richness.

As I cook, I often think back to those early days in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned that the best dishes are made with a little patience and a lot of heart.