These flavorful steamed dumplings are packed with savory ingredients like bok choy, tofu, and mushrooms, all wrapped in soft, chewy dumpling wrappers. Perfect for a light meal or appetizer, they pair beautifully with a homemade spicy dipping sauce. These dumplings are vegan, nutritious, and can be frozen for future meals.

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Filling:

  • 2 lbs bok choy, washed and julienned
  • 1 pack of ravioli or wonton wrappers
  • 1 can firm tofu, drained and pureed
  • ¼ cup sautéed mushrooms
  • 1 tablespoon black bean sauce
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • Salt to taste

For the Spicy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chili oil with chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bok Choy

  1. Add julienned bok choy to a large bowl and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of salt.
  2. Gently massage the salt into the bok choy, then let it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Tofu

  1. In a pan over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of oil and sauté the mushrooms until lightly browned.
  2. Stir in the black bean sauce and cook until the mushrooms are well coated. Set aside.
  3. In the same pan, lightly pan-fry the pureed tofu for 2 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Season with salt and set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Filling

  1. Squeeze the excess liquid from the bok choy using your hands or a cheesecloth.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the bok choy, sautéed mushrooms, tofu, and cornstarch. Adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings

  1. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wonton or ravioli wrapper.
  2. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold over, and press the edges firmly to seal.

Step 5: Steam the Dumplings

  1. Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other.
  2. Steam over high heat for 15 minutes.

How to Make the Spicy Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, Chinese black vinegar, grated ginger, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.

How to Freeze Dumplings

  • Before Cooking: Lay the assembled, uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
  • How to Cook from Frozen: Steam the frozen dumplings directly for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the steamed dumplings hot with the spicy dipping sauce on the side. These dumplings also pair well with stir-fried vegetables or a light broth-based soup for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 4 Dumplings)

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 7g

Tips for Best Results

  • Filling Alternatives: Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even cooked quinoa for added texture and flavor.
  • Batch Cooking: Make a big batch of dumplings and freeze for quick, easy meals throughout the week.

Enjoy these Spicy Steamed Dumplings as a guilt-free, vegan-friendly snack or meal that’s full of bold flavors and nutrition!