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Introduction
Baked dumplings are a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. Filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and tender meat, these little pockets of goodness are baked to perfection, creating a golden crust and a deliciously satisfying bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, mushrooms, and cabbage)
- 1 cup cooked meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 dumplings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Pour in melted butter and hot water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Roll the dough out to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped vegetables, cooked meat, green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the dumplings on a greased baking sheet and brush with additional melted butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped water chestnuts to the filling.
- These dumplings freeze well; just bake directly from frozen for a quick meal.
Cooking Techniques
Creating baked dumplings involves a simple dough-making process followed by filling and folding techniques. Mastering the art of sealing the dumplings ensures a delightful bite every time, locking in the flavorful filling.
FAQ
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- What dipping sauces pair well with these dumplings? Soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a homemade garlic soy vinaigrette work beautifully.
- Can I bake these dumplings without meat? Absolutely! They can be made vegetarian by simply using an assortment of vegetables.
Conclusion
Baked dumplings are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. With their crispy exterior and warm filling, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy the process of making them and savor every bite!
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