There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a crispy garlic chive dumpling to brighten your day. The irresistible crunch gives way to a fragrant, herb-filled center, reminding me of warm evenings spent gathering with loved ones around the table. Just the sound of oil sizzling in a pan brings a sense of comfort and anticipation that fast food simply can’t deliver.
I first discovered this gem during a weekend spent experimenting with ingredients I had on hand. Those vibrant garlic chives I’d neglected in my fridge became the star of the show! With a few simple steps, I transformed them into golden, crispy delights that vanished in moments during our family dinner.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just indulge in a homemade treat, these Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings are not only easy but also versatile. Pair them with a spicy dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to please any palate. Ready to bring a touch of joy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why love Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings?
Deliciously Unique: These dumplings boast a combination of crispy exteriors and fragrant garlic chive fillings, creating a mouthwatering bite every time.
Simple Ingredients: Using everyday ingredients like garlic chives and rice flour, this recipe is accessible yet impressive.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party with friends, these dumplings are sure to wow your guests.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the heat level of the dipping sauce or experiment with fillings, making this dish adaptable for everyone.
Quick to Make: With just an hour from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade treats without the lengthy prep time often required by dumpling recipes.
Satisfying Crunch: The frying process delivers a luscious crispness that will have your taste buds singing with each bite.
Crispy Garlic Chive Dumpling Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- Garlic chives – 230 g, giving these dumplings their distinct flavor and aroma.
- Sugar – 2 tsp, enhancing the overall taste and balancing the saltiness.
- Soy sauce – ½ Tbsp, a key ingredient for depth in flavor.
- Salt – ½ tsp, essential for elevating the dish’s overall taste.
- Baking soda – ¼ tsp (optional), providing a slightly lighter texture in the dumplings.
- Neutral oil – 2 tsp, used for sautéing and frying the dumplings to perfection.
- Garlic – 1 clove, finely grated or minced, bringing in rich flavors in every bite.
- White pepper – ¼ tsp, adding a subtle hint of heat to the mixture.
- Rice flour – 100 g, forming the base of the dumpling dough.
- Tapioca starch – 100 g, contributing to the chewy and textured outer layer.
- Water – 1 cup, combined with rice flour and tapioca starch to create the batter.
For the Dipping Sauce
- Sugar – 1 Tbsp, sweetening the sauce to complement the dumplings.
- Water – 1 Tbsp, dissolving the sugar for a silky sauce consistency.
- Vinegar – 1 Tbsp, adding a delightful tanginess to the sauce.
- Sweet soy sauce – 1 ½ Tbsp, giving a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the dumplings.
- Soy sauce – 1 Tbsp, enhancing the umami flavor in the dipping sauce.
- Sambal oelek or Thai chilies – 2-3 tsp, adjusting to taste for a spicy kick in the sauce.
Dive into the joy of making Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings, and don’t forget to enjoy that delicious dipping sauce alongside!
How to Make Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings
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Prepare the chives: Cut about 1.5 inches off the bottom of the garlic chives and discard. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, then dry the chives completely.
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Chop and mix: Cut the chives into small pieces, just under 1 cm long, and place them in a mixing bowl. Add salt, sugar, soy sauce, baking soda (if using), white pepper, oil, and garlic. Mix until well combined and let it sit for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
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Make the dipping sauce: In a separate bowl, combine vinegar, water, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then mix in the remaining ingredients for the dipping sauce, blending until combined.
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Prepare the batter: In a pot, add water, rice flour, and tapioca starch. Stir well until there are no lumps. Turn the heat to low and stir constantly until the mixture thickens to a Greek yogurt consistency. Remove from heat and break any lumps that might form.
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Combine: Off the heat, gently stir the chive mixture into the batter until everything is well combined. This should become a thick and fragrant dough.
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Prepare the cake pan: Grease a 7-inch round cake pan with oil and line the bottom with parchment paper. Carefully pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top for even cooking.
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Steam: Preheat your steamer with boiling water. Once ready, steam the dumplings for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 190°F.
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Cool and cut: Allow the dumplings to cool completely, or chill them until you’re ready to serve. Use a greased sharp knife to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
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Fry: In a non-stick pan, heat enough oil to cover the dumplings halfway. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, creating that perfect crunch.
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Serve: Present the crispy dumplings hot alongside the prepared dipping sauce for a delightful experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced chilies for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of these crispy treasures.
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Spicy Kimchi: Adds a tangy crunch that complements the soft texture and savory flavors of the dumplings.
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Sesame Noodles: Their nutty flavor and slurp-worthy texture create a delightful contrast that rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful, crunchy veggies tossed in soy sauce offers freshness that brightens the palate.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: For those who adore a touch of sweetness, this tangy sauce provides a delicious dip, enhancing the flavors of the dumplings.
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Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, the coolness of cucumber is a perfect counterpart to the warm, crispy dumplings, balancing every bite.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the fried dumplings, making for a harmonious dining experience.
These delightful pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these dumplings for an exciting twist!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute rice flour and tapioca starch with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delightful, gluten-free treat.
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Herbed Twist: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to the chive mixture for an uplifted flavor profile, perfect for herb lovers.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate crumbled feta or mozzarella into the filling for a cheesy surprise that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s an indulgent variation that your family will cherish.
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Veggie Blend: Mix in steamed and chopped vegetables such as finely diced carrots or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and add color; the extra crunch from veggies is superb!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the sambal oelek in the dipping sauce; this will not only enhance the flavor but will truly excite your taste buds!
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Baked Option: Try baking instead of frying; just brush the dumplings with oil and bake at 375°F until golden and crispy for a lighter version.
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Sweet Twist: Mix diced fruits like pineapple or mango into the filling for a sweet-sour combination that adds a unique twist and balances the savory notes beautifully.
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Saucy Sensation: Create a zesty dipping sauce by mixing yogurt with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cumin, bringing freshness that pairs wonderfully with your dumplings.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chive mixture and batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1-5, then cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to steam and fry. The dough can also be steamed and cooled, then stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just fry them as instructed for that fresh, crispy finish. To maintain quality, avoid over-frying and keep them covered while heating to ensure they stay warm and delicious. Enjoy the luxury of homemade dumplings with minimal effort on busy nights!
Storage Tips for Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings
Room Temperature: If you’ve just made your dumplings and plan to eat them within a few hours, keep them at room temperature. However, avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: Freeze fully cooled dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet for an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months and will maintain good flavor and texture.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat dumplings in a skillet with a splash of oil over medium heat, cooking until crisp and heated through, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. This keeps your Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings crunchy and delightful!
Expert Tips for Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings
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Chive Selection: Choose bright green and fresh garlic chives to ensure maximum flavor. Wilting or yellowing chives won’t provide the same aromatic goodness.
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Flour Ratio: Keep the balance between rice flour and tapioca starch for the perfect texture. If you find the dough too thick, add a little more water gradually.
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Steam with Care: Ensure the steamer has enough water before starting. If undercooked, the dumplings may become gummy, so steam until the internal temperature hits 190°F.
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Frying Technique: For that perfect crunch, let the oil heat sufficiently before adding dumplings. If cooled too much, they’ll absorb oil and lose their crispness.
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Dipping Sauce Adjustments: Customize your dipping sauce by adjusting the sambal oelek. For milder heat, start with 2 tsp, tasting as you go.
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Storage Tips: Leftover dumplings can be refrigerated but reheat them in a pan rather than microwaving to maintain their crispy texture. Enjoy these Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings fresh!
Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe garlic chives?
Absolutely! When selecting garlic chives, look for vibrant green stalks with no wilting or yellowing, as these indicate freshness. They should feel firm to the touch and have a strong garlic aroma. Dark spots or limp stems are signs to avoid.
What’s the best way to store leftover dumplings?
Very important! Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring they are completely cool first to avoid excess moisture. They can be kept fresh for up to 3 days this way.
Can I freeze Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the dumplings to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. They will stay good for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat frozen dumplings without losing their crispiness?
Definitely! When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen dumplings, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Place the frozen dumplings in the skillet, cover, and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method ensures they retain that delightful crunch!
What can I do if my dumpling mixture is too thick?
No worries! If your dumpling batter is thicker than desired, simply add a little water—about 1 tablespoon at a time—mixing until you reach a smoother consistency. This will help create a lighter texture in your dumplings.
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider with this recipe?
Very! This recipe features common allergens like soy (from soy sauce) and gluten (from rice flour and tapioca starch). If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute with gluten-free soy sauce and adjust the flours to be entirely gluten-free. Always inform your guests of ingredients used for their safety.
Enjoy your cooking adventures with these crispy delights!
Homemade Crispy Garlic Chive Dumplings That Wow Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the chives: Cut about 1.5 inches off the bottom of the garlic chives and discard. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, then dry the chives completely.
- Chop and mix: Cut the chives into small pieces, just under 1 cm long, and place them in a mixing bowl. Add salt, sugar, soy sauce, baking soda (if using), white pepper, oil, and garlic. Mix until well combined and let it sit for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Make the dipping sauce: In a separate bowl, combine vinegar, water, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then mix in the remaining ingredients for the dipping sauce, blending until combined.
- Prepare the batter: In a pot, add water, rice flour, and tapioca starch. Stir well until there are no lumps. Turn the heat to low and stir constantly until the mixture thickens to a Greek yogurt consistency. Remove from heat and break any lumps that might form.
- Combine: Off the heat, gently stir the chive mixture into the batter until everything is well combined. This should become a thick and fragrant dough.
- Prepare the cake pan: Grease a 7-inch round cake pan with oil and line the bottom with parchment paper. Carefully pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top for even cooking.
- Steam: Preheat your steamer with boiling water. Once ready, steam the dumplings for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 190°F.
- Cool and cut: Allow the dumplings to cool completely, or chill them until you're ready to serve. Use a greased sharp knife to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Fry: In a non-stick pan, heat enough oil to cover the dumplings halfway. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, creating that perfect crunch.
- Serve: Present the crispy dumplings hot alongside the prepared dipping sauce for a delightful experience.