Cheddar Tomato Dumplings

2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon finely chopped green pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon minced celery leaves
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Dumplings
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons shortening
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk

In a large skillet, saute onion and green pepper in oil until tender. Add flour; stir well. Gradually blend in tomatoes. Add celery leaves, sugar, salt and pepper; bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, for dumplings, combine flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl; cut in shortening until crumbly. Add cheddar cheese. Stir in milk just until moistened.

Drop batter by tablespoonfuls onto simmering tomato sauce. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in a dumpling comes out clean (do not lift the cover while simmering). Makes 4-5 servings.