Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings – 10-Minute Recipe

Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are a comforting and flavorful treat that captures the essence of autumn. These dumplings, with a spicy-sweet butternut squash filling and a crispy sesame seed coating, are served in a ginger soy broth that will warm you up from the inside out. Ideal for those looking for a delicious vegan meal, this dish is both unique and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this recipe, perfect for a cozy fall evening.

Why You’ll Love These Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings

This recipe stands out for its combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The butternut squash filling is roasted with curry powder and honey, bringing out its natural sweetness, while the chili crisp topping adds a spicy kick. These dumplings are a fun, creative twist on traditional dumplings, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for all occasions. Plus, the recipe is vegan, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary preferences.

Ingredients

The key to making Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings is using fresh and flavorful ingredients that complement each other perfectly.

• Butternut Squash: Offers a natural sweetness and smooth texture when roasted.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness to the squash and helps with roasting.
• Curry Powder: A blend of spices that infuses the squash with warmth and depth of flavor.
• Honey: Balances out the savory and spicy flavors, enhancing the sweetness of the squash.
• Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and fresh crunch.
• Wonton Wrappers: The base for the dumplings; they are easy to work with and readily available.

• Sesame Seeds: Coating the dumplings gives them a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
• Ginger: A key ingredient in the broth that adds a fresh, spicy kick.
• Shallots: Caramelized shallots create a rich base for the broth.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami to the broth, balancing the flavors.
• Chili Crisp Sauce: A spicy, tangy topping that adds heat and flavor to each bite.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing a specific ingredient or need a substitution, here are some suggestions:

• Wonton Wrappers: If you’re unable to find wonton wrappers, you can make your own by mixing flour and water to form a dough. Alternatively, use dumpling wrappers from an Asian market for a more authentic option.
• Honey: For a vegan alternative, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Sesame Seeds: If you prefer a different texture, you can use crushed peanuts or sunflower seeds as an alternative to sesame seeds.
• Chili Crisp Sauce: If you don’t have chili crisp, try using chili oil or hot sauce as a substitute for the spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil and curry powder. Roast for 25–30 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Filling: Once the squash has cooled slightly, mash it with a fork. Add honey, green onions, and a pinch of pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined.
3. Assemble the Dumplings: Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling onto the center of the wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, then fold the wrapper over the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
4. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Brush the bottom of each dumpling with water and dip it into sesame seeds. Repeat until all dumplings are assembled.
5. Make the Broth: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the shallots until they are caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, then pour in the broth and soy sauce. Simmer the broth on low for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Cook the Dumplings: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the skillet and pan-fry until the bottoms are golden, about 2–3 minutes. Add water to the pan and cover to steam the dumplings for 4–5 minutes.
7. Serve: Arrange the cooked dumplings in shallow bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the dumplings and top with chili crisp sauce and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Seal the Dumplings Well: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dumplings tightly to avoid any filling leaking out while cooking.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: When pan-frying the dumplings, a non-stick skillet can help prevent them from sticking and make flipping easier.
• Check for Doneness: After steaming, check the dumplings for a golden brown bottom and soft, tender wrapper. If they’re still firm, let them steam for another minute or two.
• Storage: Leftover dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a pan with a little oil to retain their crispy texture.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve the dumplings alongside a refreshing Asian-style salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the broth.
• Sauces: If you prefer a milder flavor, serve the dumplings with a simple soy sauce or hoisin sauce.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the dumplings ahead of time and freeze them for later. Simply cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the pan-frying and steaming time.
• Spicy Variation: For an extra kick, add more chili flakes to the chili crisp sauce or mix in some sriracha to the broth.

A Cozy Fall Meal That Will Wow Your Guests

Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With their sweet and spicy filling, crispy sesame coating, and flavorful broth, these dumplings offer a unique twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, these dumplings are sure to be a hit.

Conclusion

Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are the ultimate fusion of comfort food and bold flavors. The perfect blend of sweet roasted butternut squash, savory broth, and a spicy chili crisp kick makes this dish stand out in both taste and texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, these dumplings are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant autumn flavors, they make a wonderful addition to any meal.

With their simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, these Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings offer a satisfying, healthy, and creative way to enjoy dumplings like never before. Make them today and savor the warmth of fall in every bite.

FAQ

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