Steaming Dumplings: The Secret To Using Your Steam Oven

Cooking dumplings in a steam oven is a convenient and effective way to prepare this popular dish. With a steam oven, you can cook dumplings to perfection, achieving a beautiful texture without the need for browning or caramelisation. In this guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of making delicious steamed dumplings, from preparing the filling to cooking them just right. We will also discuss the benefits of using a steam oven, the different types of dumplings you can make, and how to serve them. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with mouth-watering dumplings made with ease in your steam oven!

Preparing the filling

The filling is the star of the dumpling, so it's important to get it just right. You can be creative and adapt the filling to your taste, but here are some general guidelines to follow.

Firstly, decide on your protein. Common choices include fatty pork mince, chicken mince, or even a combination of pork and prawn. If you opt for chicken, it's best to use leg or thigh mince as it has more flavour than breast mince. For a vegetarian option, you can use firm tofu or mushrooms as your base.

Next, you'll want to add some aromatics and spices to boost the flavour. Fresh ginger, garlic, and spring onions are classic ingredients in dumpling fillings. Grate or finely chop the ginger and garlic, and finely chop the spring onions. You can also add spices like white pepper, chilli sauce, or chilli oil to give your dumplings a kick.

To add some extra texture and flavour, you can include chopped water chestnuts, coriander, or sesame seeds. Soy sauce is also a key ingredient, providing that savoury umami taste. A splash of rice wine, Shaoxing wine, or dry sherry can also enhance the flavour. If you like your dumplings on the sweeter side, you can add a touch of sweet chilli sauce or hoisin sauce.

Finally, you may want to add a binder to help hold the filling together. Beaten egg is a good option, though you can also use cornstarch or flour.

Combine all your chosen ingredients in a bowl and mix well. If using an egg as your binder, you may want to mix the egg separately with the liquid ingredients before combining with the rest of the filling. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, and you're ready to start assembling your dumplings!

Shaping the dumplings

Start by preparing your work area. Have your filling and dumpling wrappers ready and laid out in front of you. You will also need a small bowl of water to help seal the dumplings.

Take one dumpling wrapper and place it on your work surface. Using a teaspoon, place a small amount of filling in the middle of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the dumpling to break apart.

Now, it's time to seal the dumpling. If you are using wonton wrappers, lightly dampen the edges of the wrapper with water. Then, carefully bring all the edges together around the filling, forming a purse-like shape. Gently press the edges to ensure a tight seal.

If you are using gyoza or potsticker wrappers, the process is slightly different. After placing the filling in the centre, dampen only one half of the wrapper with water. Then, fold the wrapper in half, joining the dry and wet sides together. Starting from one end, make a series of small crimps to seal the dumpling. You can make 6-7 crimps to ensure a secure seal.

Repeat this process until you have used up all your filling and wrappers. It is important to work efficiently, as the wrappers can dry out, making them harder to seal.

Once all your dumplings are shaped, they are ready to be cooked. You can cook them immediately or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Shaping dumplings may take some practice, but with patience and persistence, you'll be able to create perfectly sealed and delicious dumplings. Enjoy the process and impress your family and friends with your dumpling-making skills!

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for dumplings in a steam oven will depend on the type of dumplings you are cooking, the quantity, and whether they are cooked from frozen or not.

If you are cooking homemade dumplings, most recipes recommend preheating your steam oven to 100°C (212°F) and cooking for 12-15 minutes. However, some recipes suggest cooking for as little as 6-9 minutes or as long as 20 minutes. It is important to note that the cooking time will depend on the type of dumpling and the desired level of doneness.

If you are cooking frozen dumplings, it is recommended to cook them for 20 minutes at 100°C (212°F).

It is worth noting that some sources suggest browning the dumplings in a pan before or after steaming, which will add to the overall cooking time.

Serving suggestions

Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetiser, or part of a more substantial meal. They can be enjoyed on their own, but serving them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dumpling feast even more delightful:

Soups and Broths

A warm and comforting bowl of soup is a classic companion to dumplings. Chinese hot and sour soup, with its tangy and savoury notes from soy sauce and vinegar, is an ideal match. Chicken noodle soup is another excellent option, providing a subtle yet hearty flavour combination. If you're feeling adventurous, try making a meat broth using the byproducts of your dumpling filling; bone broth, in particular, offers a nutritious boost.

Noodles and Rice

Rice and noodles are staple accompaniments to dumplings. Ramen, with its variety of flavourful broths like miso or tonkotsu, pairs wonderfully with dumplings. For a simple and satisfying option, try egg fried noodles with a savoury sauce like soy or hoisin. If you're serving dumplings as a side dish, fried noodles can be a tasty main course without stealing the spotlight. Don't forget to explore different types of rice dishes, such as pork belly fried rice for an Asian twist or loaded mashed potato for a comforting European option.

Vegetables and Salads

Adding vegetables or salads to your dumpling meal provides a nutritious and colourful contrast. Try a vegetable stir-fry, customising it with ingredients like soy sauce and pepper flakes to suit your taste. For a lighter option, spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat can be a delightful finger food alongside your dumplings. If you're looking for a refreshing side, a quinoa cabbage salad or a cucumber salad with a tangy twist is a perfect choice.

Sauces and Dips

No dumpling feast is complete without an array of dipping sauces. The simplest option is to provide bottled condiments, with Asian stores offering a variety of spicy choices. If spice isn't your forte, ketchup can be a mild alternative. For a homemade touch, create your own dipping sauce by combining soy sauce, chilli oil, and rice vinegar.

Appetisers and Snacks

If you're hosting a dumpling party or simply want to make your meal more indulgent, consider adding appetisers or snacks to the spread. Spring rolls, either baked or fried, are a versatile option that can be filled with vegetables, meat, or seafood. Deep-fried stuffed olives are sure to impress, and you can experiment with various fillings like chorizo and feta cheese.

With these serving suggestions, you're well on your way to crafting a dumpling feast that will tantalise your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and creating memorable dining experiences!

Buying pre-made wrappers

If you don't want to make your own dumpling wrappers, you can buy pre-made ones from Asian grocers or online. Pre-made dumpling wrappers are usually sold in packs of around 40 wrappers, although the exact number can vary from brand to brand. They are typically made from wheat flour, salt, and water, and can be found in the chilled or frozen section of the grocery store.

When using pre-made dumpling wrappers, it is important to thaw them completely before using them. Take the wrappers out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight or for at least a few hours before you plan to use them. This will ensure that the wrappers are pliable and easy to work with.

Once thawed, you can separate the wrappers and fill them with your desired filling. Place a small amount of filling in the centre of each wrapper, dampen the edges with water, and then seal the wrappers by pressing them together or by crimping them with a fork.

After shaping your dumplings, you can cook them in a steam oven. Place the dumplings on a perforated tray lined with baking paper and put them in a preheated oven with the steam setting at 100°C for 6-15 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your dumplings. Serve your steamed dumplings with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions