Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce
Description
These dumplings are golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Baked instead of fried, they’re a healthier alternative while still delivering that irresistible texture and flavor. Paired with a rich, creamy peanut sauce with a hint of spice and tang, they make an ideal appetizer, snack, or party dish. Perfect for those who love Asian-inspired flavors but want a simpler, oven-friendly preparation.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings:
1 package (about 25–30) store-bought dumpling wrappers
1 cup ground chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu (for vegetarian option)
½ cup finely shredded cabbage
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp black pepper
1 egg (optional, for binding)
Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
For the Peanut Sauce:
½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
¼ cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray or brush with oil.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine your choice of protein, shredded cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and egg (if using). Mix well.
3. Assemble Dumplings
Place about 1 tsp of filling in the center of each wrapper.
Moisten the edges with water and fold into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges tightly to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look.
Place the dumplings on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake Dumplings
Lightly brush or spray the tops with a little oil to help them crisp.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare Peanut Sauce
While dumplings bake, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar or lime juice, honey, sriracha, and warm water.
Adjust consistency with more water if needed. Sauce should be smooth and pourable.
6. Serve
Serve dumplings warm with peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Tips & Tricks
Don’t overfill the dumplings—this prevents breaking during baking.
Brushing with oil ensures a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce to the filling.
Dumplings can also be frozen before baking; just bake an extra 5 minutes if frozen.
Common Questions
Q1: Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and freeze them uncooked. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
Q2: Can I steam or pan-fry instead?
A: Absolutely. Steam for 10–12 minutes or pan-fry for a golden bottom before adding a splash of water and covering to steam.
Q3: How do I make the peanut sauce spicier?
A: Add more sriracha, chili paste, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.
Q4: Can I make the sauce nut-free?
A: Yes. Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Q5: Can these be served as a meal?
A: Pair them with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.