Dumplings are a universal comfort food, revered across cultures for their ability to be endlessly versatile and universally satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main course, dumplings have the remarkable ability to bring people together, and these Spicy Steamed Dumplings are no exception. Packed with a flavorful medley of tender bok choy, mashed tofu, sautéed mushrooms, and seasoned with a special spicy sauce, this recipe brings an exciting twist to the traditional steamed dumpling. The combination of soft, pillowy wrappers, savory filling, and a zesty, spicy kick from the sauce makes this dish irresistibly delicious.
PrintSpicy Steamed Dumplings
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 dumplings
Ingredients
1. Bok Choy (2 lbs)
Bok choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, is a wonderful vegetable that provides a mild yet refreshing flavor. It’s tender when cooked, with a slight crunch that adds texture to the dumplings. The bok choy is first salted and massaged, allowing the moisture to release, which will help to prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy when steamed. This vegetable’s clean, slightly peppery flavor complements the savory filling, balancing the richness of the tofu and mushrooms.
2. Wonton/Dumpling Wrappers (1 package)
Wonton or dumpling wrappers are the essential outer shell that encases the filling. They are typically thin, soft, and slightly chewy when steamed. The wrappers should be fresh to ensure the dumplings hold together properly during steaming. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also make your own wrappers from scratch, though pre-made wrappers are a quick and convenient option that works beautifully in this recipe.
3. Firm Tofu (1 box)
Tofu, a staple in vegetarian and vegan dishes, brings a smooth texture and subtle flavor to the dumpling filling. When mashed, it takes on the flavors of the other ingredients, providing a creamy base that complements the crunch of the bok choy and the savory taste of sautéed mushrooms. Tofu is also packed with protein, making it a filling and healthy addition to the dumplings. Be sure to drain the tofu thoroughly before mashing to remove excess moisture.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms (¼ cup)
Mushrooms are an excellent source of umami, the savory fifth taste that adds depth to any dish. In this recipe, sautéed mushrooms offer a rich, earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh, light bok choy and the creamy tofu. The mushrooms are sautéed until lightly brown to release their natural flavors and give them a deeper, richer taste.
5. Black Bean Sauce (1 tablespoon)
Black bean sauce is a savory, slightly salty condiment made from fermented black soybeans. It adds a layer of complexity to the dumpling filling, enhancing the umami notes and bringing the entire mixture together. This sauce is used sparingly in the recipe to ensure it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients but instead enhances the overall flavor profile.
6. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
Cornstarch is a key ingredient that helps bind the filling together, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart when sealed inside the dumpling wrapper. It also helps to thicken the filling slightly, contributing to a smooth and cohesive texture.
7. Salt to Taste
Salt is essential for seasoning the filling. Since tofu can be quite bland on its own, adding salt will help bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and ensure that the filling is well-seasoned.
8. Oil for Sautéing
A small amount of oil is used for sautéing the mushrooms and tofu, helping them brown and develop flavor. You can use any neutral oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil, depending on your preference.
9. Spicy Sauce Ingredients
The spicy sauce adds a fiery kick to the dumplings. It’s a blend of soy sauce, chili oil with chili crumbs, sesame oil, Chinese black vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor, with the soy sauce providing saltiness, the chili oil bringing heat, and the vinegar offering a tangy balance. The sugar helps to mellow out the sharpness, creating a beautifully complex and balanced sauce.
- Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons) Soy sauce is the backbone of the spicy sauce, providing a rich, salty, and savory base.
- Chili Oil with Chili Crumbs (2 tablespoons) Chili oil adds a layer of heat and smokiness, while the chili crumbs provide extra texture and spice.
- Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) Sesame oil imparts a nutty richness that balances the sharpness of the soy sauce and vinegar.
- Chinese Black Vinegar (1 teaspoon) Black vinegar adds a deep, slightly sweet and sour flavor that helps to round out the sauce.
- Grated Ginger (1 teaspoon) Fresh ginger adds a warming, zesty spice to the sauce, enhancing its overall depth.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) A small amount of sugar helps balance the vinegar and soy sauce, adding a touch of sweetness to the spicy sauce.
Instructions
Preparing the Filling
- Prepare the Bok Choy: Begin by washing the bok choy thoroughly. Once cleaned, julienne the bok choy into thin strips. Place the bok choy in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Using your hands, gently massage the salt into the bok choy, ensuring the vegetable is evenly coated. Let the bok choy sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the salt to draw out the moisture. After the bok choy has softened, use a cheesecloth or your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step helps to avoid a soggy filling.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mushrooms and sauté them until they turn lightly brown and release their natural juices. Stir in the black bean sauce and cook for an additional minute to ensure the mushrooms are coated evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Tofu: In the same pan, add a small amount of oil and fry the mashed tofu for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tofu turns a light golden brown. Season with salt to taste. Once cooked, set the tofu aside to cool.
- Combine the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed bok choy, sautéed mushrooms with black bean sauce, and pan-fried tofu. Add the cornstarch to help bind the ingredients together. Use a spoon to mix the filling thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
Assembling the Dumplings
- Prepare the Wrappers: Place a wonton or dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a small dollop of the filling into the center of the wrapper, being careful not to overfill. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your fingers, then fold the wrapper in half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal the dumpling. You can also pleat the edges for a more decorative and secure seal.
- Steam the Dumplings: Arrange the assembled dumplings in a steamer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Steam the dumplings over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the wrappers turn translucent and the filling is hot and cooked through.
Preparing the Spicy Sauce
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, Chinese black vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more sugar for sweetness or more chili oil for extra heat.
- Serve: Once the dumplings are steamed, remove them from the steamer and serve immediately. You can drizzle the spicy sauce directly over the dumplings or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Bok Choy Substitution: If bok choy is unavailable, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as napa cabbage, spinach, or Swiss chard. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but still create a delicious filling.
- Tofu Alternatives: For those who prefer a different texture, mashed chickpeas or lentils can be used instead of tofu. These alternatives will offer a slightly firmer texture but still complement the other ingredients beautifully.
- Mushroom Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for a unique flavor profile. Shiitake mushrooms will add a rich, earthy taste, while button mushrooms provide a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
In this article, we will explore the intricacies of making these Spicy Steamed Dumplings from scratch, breaking down the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, flavor profiles, and even offering useful tips for ingredient substitutions, variations, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you toward creating the perfect, flavorful dumplings that are sure to become a staple in your home.
The Appeal of Spicy Steamed Dumplings
Dumplings, with their delicate wrappers and savory fillings, are an iconic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries across various cuisines. Steamed dumplings, in particular, offer a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, maintaining a soft and tender texture while infusing the filling with all the aromatic flavors that steaming enhances. These Spicy Steamed Dumplings are an even more exciting take on the traditional version, incorporating vibrant, fresh ingredients like bok choy, tofu, and mushrooms for a deliciously hearty and nutritious filling.
The spicy sauce that accompanies these dumplings adds an extra layer of depth, balancing the freshness of the vegetables with a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy finish. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—each element, from the filling to the sauce, works harmoniously to create an experience that is as flavorful as it is satisfying.
Whether you’re craving a warming dish for a chilly evening or want to impress guests at your next dinner party, these dumplings are the perfect choice. They can be enjoyed on their own, paired with a light dipping sauce, or served as part of a larger meal with steamed rice and vegetables.
Ingredient Breakdown
The key to making these Spicy Steamed Dumplings lies in the balance of ingredients. Each element plays an important role in contributing flavor, texture, and aroma. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients used in this recipe:
1. Bok Choy (2 lbs)
Bok choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, is a wonderful vegetable that provides a mild yet refreshing flavor. It’s tender when cooked, with a slight crunch that adds texture to the dumplings. The bok choy is first salted and massaged, allowing the moisture to release, which will help to prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy when steamed. This vegetable’s clean, slightly peppery flavor complements the savory filling, balancing the richness of the tofu and mushrooms.
2. Wonton/Dumpling Wrappers (1 package)
Wonton or dumpling wrappers are the essential outer shell that encases the filling. They are typically thin, soft, and slightly chewy when steamed. The wrappers should be fresh to ensure the dumplings hold together properly during steaming. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also make your own wrappers from scratch, though pre-made wrappers are a quick and convenient option that works beautifully in this recipe.
3. Firm Tofu (1 box)
Tofu, a staple in vegetarian and vegan dishes, brings a smooth texture and subtle flavor to the dumpling filling. When mashed, it takes on the flavors of the other ingredients, providing a creamy base that complements the crunch of the bok choy and the savory taste of sautéed mushrooms. Tofu is also packed with protein, making it a filling and healthy addition to the dumplings. Be sure to drain the tofu thoroughly before mashing to remove excess moisture.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms (¼ cup)
Mushrooms are an excellent source of umami, the savory fifth taste that adds depth to any dish. In this recipe, sautéed mushrooms offer a rich, earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh, light bok choy and the creamy tofu. The mushrooms are sautéed until lightly brown to release their natural flavors and give them a deeper, richer taste.
5. Black Bean Sauce (1 tablespoon)
Black bean sauce is a savory, slightly salty condiment made from fermented black soybeans. It adds a layer of complexity to the dumpling filling, enhancing the umami notes and bringing the entire mixture together. This sauce is used sparingly in the recipe to ensure it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients but instead enhances the overall flavor profile.
6. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
Cornstarch is a key ingredient that helps bind the filling together, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart when sealed inside the dumpling wrapper. It also helps to thicken the filling slightly, contributing to a smooth and cohesive texture.
7. Salt to Taste
Salt is essential for seasoning the filling. Since tofu can be quite bland on its own, adding salt will help bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and ensure that the filling is well-seasoned.
8. Oil for Sautéing
A small amount of oil is used for sautéing the mushrooms and tofu, helping them brown and develop flavor. You can use any neutral oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil, depending on your preference.
9. Spicy Sauce Ingredients
The spicy sauce adds a fiery kick to the dumplings. It’s a blend of soy sauce, chili oil with chili crumbs, sesame oil, Chinese black vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor, with the soy sauce providing saltiness, the chili oil bringing heat, and the vinegar offering a tangy balance. The sugar helps to mellow out the sharpness, creating a beautifully complex and balanced sauce.
- Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons) Soy sauce is the backbone of the spicy sauce, providing a rich, salty, and savory base.
- Chili Oil with Chili Crumbs (2 tablespoons) Chili oil adds a layer of heat and smokiness, while the chili crumbs provide extra texture and spice.
- Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) Sesame oil imparts a nutty richness that balances the sharpness of the soy sauce and vinegar.
- Chinese Black Vinegar (1 teaspoon) Black vinegar adds a deep, slightly sweet and sour flavor that helps to round out the sauce.
- Grated Ginger (1 teaspoon) Fresh ginger adds a warming, zesty spice to the sauce, enhancing its overall depth.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) A small amount of sugar helps balance the vinegar and soy sauce, adding a touch of sweetness to the spicy sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
- Prepare the Bok Choy: Begin by washing the bok choy thoroughly. Once cleaned, julienne the bok choy into thin strips. Place the bok choy in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Using your hands, gently massage the salt into the bok choy, ensuring the vegetable is evenly coated. Let the bok choy sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the salt to draw out the moisture. After the bok choy has softened, use a cheesecloth or your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step helps to avoid a soggy filling.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mushrooms and sauté them until they turn lightly brown and release their natural juices. Stir in the black bean sauce and cook for an additional minute to ensure the mushrooms are coated evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Tofu: In the same pan, add a small amount of oil and fry the mashed tofu for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tofu turns a light golden brown. Season with salt to taste. Once cooked, set the tofu aside to cool.
- Combine the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed bok choy, sautéed mushrooms with black bean sauce, and pan-fried tofu. Add the cornstarch to help bind the ingredients together. Use a spoon to mix the filling thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
Assembling the Dumplings
- Prepare the Wrappers: Place a wonton or dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a small dollop of the filling into the center of the wrapper, being careful not to overfill. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your fingers, then fold the wrapper in half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal the dumpling. You can also pleat the edges for a more decorative and secure seal.
- Steam the Dumplings: Arrange the assembled dumplings in a steamer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Steam the dumplings over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the wrappers turn translucent and the filling is hot and cooked through.
Preparing the Spicy Sauce
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, Chinese black vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more sugar for sweetness or more chili oil for extra heat.
- Serve: Once the dumplings are steamed, remove them from the steamer and serve immediately. You can drizzle the spicy sauce directly over the dumplings or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Bok Choy Substitution: If bok choy is unavailable, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as napa cabbage, spinach, or Swiss chard. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but still create a delicious filling.
- Tofu Alternatives: For those who prefer a different texture, mashed chickpeas or lentils can be used instead of tofu. These alternatives will offer a slightly firmer texture but still complement the other ingredients beautifully.
- Mushroom Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for a unique flavor profile. Shiitake mushrooms will add a rich, earthy taste, while button mushrooms provide a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing with Rice: These dumplings are perfect when paired with steamed jasmine or brown rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a neutral base to balance the heat from the dumplings.
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
- Soup Accompaniment: These dumplings can also be served in a bowl of light vegetable or miso soup for an extra warming meal.
Conclusion
These Spicy Steamed Dumplings are a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and umami flavors that will excite your taste buds. The tender dumpling wrappers, filled with a combination of bok choy, tofu, and sautéed mushrooms, offer a comforting yet exciting bite. Paired with the zesty spicy sauce, these dumplings are an irresistible treat that will have you coming back for more. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, try your hand at making these flavorful dumplings, and enjoy the delicious experience of creating and savoring this dish!