These Baked Shrimp and Chive Dumplings offer a delightful twist on a classic appetizer. Wrapped in crisp rice paper and filled with savory shrimp, garlic, and chives, they’re perfect for any gathering or a simple dinner. Pair them with tamarind sauce or a homemade sweet-sour dip for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- 20 rice paper wrappers (6-inch diameter) – The crispy outer layer.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, roughly diced – The main protein.
- 1/4 cup chopped chives – Adds a mild, onion-like flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – For depth and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Provides umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty undertone.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground – For a subtle heat.
- Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray – For greasing and ensuring crispness.
For Dipping (Optional)
- Tamarind sauce – Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Shrimp Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced shrimp, chopped chives, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers
- Fill a shallow dish with warm water.
- Submerge one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, just until it becomes pliable but not too soft.
- Place the softened wrapper on a clean, damp dish towel to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings
- Place about one tablespoon of the shrimp mixture near the bottom of the wrapper, ensuring there is enough space at the edges for folding.
- Fold the sides of the wrapper inward, then roll it up tightly like a small burrito, ensuring the seam is secure.
- Place the dumpling seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat the process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 5: Bake the Dumplings
- Lightly brush the tops of the dumplings with olive oil or spray them with nonstick spray for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and crisp.
- Be cautious towards the end to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a hard texture.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the dumplings from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack.
- Let them cool slightly, then serve warm with tamarind sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Pliable Wrappers: Don’t soak the rice paper too long, or it may tear. Just a few seconds in warm water is enough.
- Prevent Sticking: Lay the wrappers on a damp towel to avoid sticking while assembling.
- Crispier Texture: Lightly brushing the dumplings with olive oil helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Even Cooking: Place dumplings seam-side down to prevent them from opening while baking.
- Test for Doneness: The dumplings are ready when they turn golden brown and have a light crunch.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for a mix of finely shredded tofu, cabbage, and shiitake mushrooms for a plant-based filling.
- Chive Alternatives: Use green onions or finely chopped spinach for a milder or different green flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Add a dash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for extra zest.
- Quick Option: Use pre-cooked shrimp or store-bought shredded vegetables for faster prep.
- Custom Dipping Sauce: Mix soy sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a dash of honey for a sweet-sour dipping option.
FAQs
1. Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and store them covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, freeze the assembled but unbaked dumplings in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and store for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
3. What can I use instead of rice paper wrappers?
You can substitute with wonton wrappers or even spring roll wrappers, but the texture will be different.
4. Can I pan-fry these dumplings instead of baking?
Yes! Heat oil in a pan and cook the dumplings until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. What other dipping sauces can I serve with these?
Try peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy soy-lime sauce for variation.
Nutritional Information (Per Dumpling, Approximate)
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked dumplings for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating Tip: For the crispiest results, avoid microwaving. Opt for oven reheating to maintain texture.
Conclusion
These Baked Shrimp and Chive Dumplings offer a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory filling. Simple yet flavorful, they are ideal for entertaining or a cozy family dinner. Customize the filling, experiment with dipping sauces, and even involve the whole family in the assembly process for a fun and interactive cooking experience.
Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch them disappear from the plate—just like the five that vanished straight from the oven!