There is something magical about a plate of chicken dumplings paired with a spicy chili oil dipping sauce. This dish evokes warm memories of family gatherings, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the delicious food. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that holds a special place in my heart: Chicken Dumplings with Chili Oil. This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the warmth of ginger, the zest of soy sauce, and the fiery kick of homemade chili oil.
Ingredients and Preparations
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients required for making these delectable dumplings and their accompanying sauces.
For the Dumpling Filling:
- Chicken mince: 300g
- Spring onion (chopped): ½ cup
- Ginger (chopped): 2 tsp
- Garlic (chopped): 2 tsp
- Carrot (finely chopped): ¼ cup
- Himalayan pink salt: ½ tsp or to taste
- Cornflour: ½ tbsp
- Black pepper powder: ½ tsp
- Soy sauce: 1 ½ tbsp
- Sesame oil: 2 tsp
- Water: 2-3 tbsp
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour (sifted): 2 ½ cups
- Water: ¾ cup
- Himalayan pink salt: 1 tsp or to taste
- Boiling water as required
For the Chili Oil:
- Cooking oil: ½ cup
- Sesame oil: 4 tbsp
- Onion: 1 small
- Garlic (sliced): 4 cloves
- Star anise: 1
- Cinnamon sticks: 2
- Crushed red chili: 3 tbsp
- Himalayan pink salt: ½ tsp or to taste
For the Dipping Sauce:
- Garlic (chopped): 2 tsp
- Ginger (chopped): 2 tsp
- Sichuan pepper (crushed): ½ tsp
- Sugar (powdered): 1 tbsp
- Spring onion (chopped): 2 tbsp
- Vinegar: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce: 4-5 tbsp
- Spring onion leaves (chopped): for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dumpling Filling:
The heart of any good dumpling is its filling. For this recipe, we use chicken mince as the primary ingredient. Combine the chicken mince with chopped spring onions, ginger, garlic, and finely chopped carrots in a bowl. The addition of carrots not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the other flavors.
Season the mixture with Himalayan pink salt, cornflour, black pepper powder, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The soy sauce adds a rich umami flavor, while the sesame oil imparts a nutty aroma. Mix everything well and set it aside. Letting the mixture rest allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful filling.
Preparing the Dough:
A good dumpling starts with a well-made dough. In a large bowl, sift the all-purpose flour to remove any lumps. Dissolve the Himalayan pink salt in water and gradually add this salty water to the flour, mixing continuously. Knead the dough until it comes together and forms a smooth, pliable ball. Cover the dough with cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.
After resting, knead the dough again with wet hands for 2-3 minutes. This additional kneading ensures a smooth texture. Divide the dough into 20g balls, which should yield about 22-24 dumplings. Roll each ball into a 4-inch round, dusting with cornflour as needed to prevent sticking.
Filling and Shaping the Dumplings:
Place a small amount of the prepared filling onto the center of each dough round. Wet the edges of the dough with water to help seal the dumplings. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. For an added touch of elegance, you can pleat the edges. This step may require some practice, but it’s a fun and rewarding process.
Steaming the Dumplings:
Line a bamboo steamer with baking paper to prevent the dumplings from sticking. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, ensuring they are not touching each other. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for about 10 minutes. The steaming process cooks the dumplings to perfection, resulting in a tender yet slightly chewy texture.
Preparing the Chili Oil:
Homemade chili oil is a game-changer. It adds a fiery kick that elevates the dumplings to a whole new level. In a saucepan, heat the cooking oil and sesame oil. Add the sliced onion, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Fry these ingredients until they turn a light golden color. The aromatics infuse the oil with their rich flavors, creating a fragrant base.
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed red chili and Himalayan pink salt. Strain the hot oil into the bowl, discarding the solids. Mix well to combine, and your homemade chili oil is ready.
Preparing the Dipping Sauce:
A good dipping sauce complements the dumplings, enhancing their flavors. In a bowl, combine chopped garlic, ginger, crushed Sichuan pepper, powdered sugar, and chopped spring onions. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared chili oil, vinegar, and soy sauce. Mix everything well. The combination of soy sauce and vinegar provides a perfect balance of salty and tangy flavors, while the chili oil adds a spicy kick.
Finishing and Serving:
To serve, drizzle the prepared chili oil and dipping sauce over the steamed dumplings. Garnish with chopped spring onion leaves for a fresh, vibrant touch. The result is a plate of dumplings that are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.
A Culinary Journey:
These Chicken Dumplings with Chili Oil are more than just a dish; they are a journey through flavors and memories. Each bite brings together the warmth of ginger, the zest of soy sauce, and the heat of chili oil, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Cooking these dumplings at home allows you to share a piece of this culinary journey with your loved ones. It’s a chance to gather around the kitchen, share stories, and create new memories. The process of making dumplings can be a fun and bonding experience, especially when done with family and friends.
Tips for Perfect Dumplings:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and spring onions enhance the flavor of the filling.
- Rest the dough: Allowing the dough to rest makes it easier to roll out and shape.
- Seal tightly: Ensure the dumplings are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Steam properly: Use a bamboo steamer for best results, and don’t overcrowd the dumplings to ensure even cooking.
- Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of crushed red chili in the chili oil to suit your heat preference.
Variations and Serving Suggestions:
While this recipe focuses on chicken dumplings, you can easily adapt it to your taste. Here are a few variations and serving suggestions:
- Vegetarian Dumplings: Use finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and a variety of vegetables as the filling.
- Pan-fried Dumplings: After steaming, lightly pan-fry the dumplings in a bit of oil for a crispy texture.
- Soup Dumplings: Serve the dumplings in a light broth for a comforting soup meal.
- Noodle Side: Pair the dumplings with a side of stir-fried noodles or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Chicken Dumplings with Chili Oil are a delightful dish that brings together the best of Asian cuisine. The combination of tender dumplings, flavorful filling, and spicy chili oil creates a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re making these dumplings for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, they are sure to impress and satisfy.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this culinary adventure. With each step, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the joy of homemade dumplings with those you love. Happy cooking!