Ingredients:
For the Dumplings:
- 1 package of dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 lb ground pork, chicken, or tofu (for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup chopped cabbage (optional, for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Nut Sauce:
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to your spice level)
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin out the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for tang)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dumplings:
- In a bowl, mix the ground pork, chicken, or tofu with the chopped cabbage, green onions, grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar (optional), salt, and pepper.
- Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper.
- Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water, then fold it in half and pinch the edges together to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look.
- Repeat this process until all dumplings are filled.
2. Cook the Dumplings:
- You can cook the dumplings in several ways:
- Steaming: Steam the dumplings in a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper for about 8-10 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through.
- Boiling: Bring a pot of water to a boil and drop the dumplings in. Once they float, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Pan-frying (potsticker style): Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the dumplings in the pan and fry until the bottom is golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Then add a few tablespoons of water and cover to steam the dumplings for 5-6 minutes until cooked through.
3. Prepare the Spicy Nut Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), chili paste or sriracha, and water. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili paste or sriracha if you like it extra hot. If you want a creamier sauce, add more peanut butter.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lime juice or more honey if needed.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Once the dumplings are cooked, transfer them to a plate.
- Drizzle the spicy nut sauce over the dumplings, or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts, crushed red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the dumplings hot with the spicy nut sauce for dipping or drizzling. You can also add some extra chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish.
This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course, offering a delightful combination of savory dumplings and a rich, spicy, nutty sauce. Enjoy!
