Spicy Steamed Dumplings Recipe
Steamed dumplings are a delicious and versatile dish that can be tailored to various tastes and preferences. This recipe for spicy steamed dumplings offers a flavorful kick, combining the subtle heat of chili paste with the umami of soy sauce and the freshness of herbs. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or impressing guests at a dinner party, these spicy dumplings are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Dumpling Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork (you can substitute with ground chicken or tofu for a different variation)
- 1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage (or regular cabbage)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (or dry white wine)
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Dumpling Wrappers:
- 1 package of store-bought dumpling wrappers (about 30 wrappers, available at Asian grocery stores)
- Alternatively, you can make your own wrappers using flour, water, and a pinch of salt.
For Steaming:
- 2 cups water (for the steamer)
- 1-2 layers of parchment paper or cabbage leaves (to prevent sticking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with the finely chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the soy sauce, rice wine, chili paste, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. For best results, let the mixture marinate for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Dumplings:
- Lay out a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 1-1.5 teaspoons of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water to help seal the dumpling. Fold the wrapper in half to cover the filling, then pleat the edges to seal completely. You can create different pleating styles, but make sure they are tightly sealed to avoid leakage during steaming.
- Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wrappers.
- Prepare for Steaming:
- Line your steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent the dumplings from sticking.
- Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, making sure they are not touching each other to allow space for expansion during steaming.
- Steam the Dumplings:
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot or wok fitted with a steamer insert.
- Place the steamer basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam the dumplings for about 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and the wrappers are tender.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the dumplings from the steamer and transfer them to a serving plate.
- Serve hot with a dipping sauce made from a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for an extra spicy kick.
Tips:
- Dumpling Wrappers: If you’re using homemade wrappers, roll out the dough thinly and cut into circles with a cookie cutter or glass.
- Filling Variations: You can experiment with different proteins or add ingredients like mushrooms or bamboo shoots for additional flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: You can freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Steam them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
These spicy steamed dumplings are a perfect blend of savory and spicy, offering a delightful culinary experience with every bite. Enjoy!
