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Steamed Dumplings with Homemade Dumpling Sauce Recipe

4.4 from 122 reviews

Tender steamed dumplings served with a flavorful, spicy, and tangy homemade dumpling sauce made from soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, doubanjiang, chili oil, garlic, and sesame elements. This quick and easy recipe offers an authentic Asian appetizer or snack, perfect for dipping or pouring over freshly cooked dumplings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dumplings

  • 12 pieces homemade or store-bought dumplings/wontons

Best Dumpling Sauce

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp water or broth from dumplings (if boiling dumplings)
  • 1 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste)
  • 1/2 tbsp chili oil or chili garlic sauce
  • 23 tsp sugar (adjust to desired sweetness)
  • 2 tbsp Chinese black vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • Chopped fresh scallions and coriander for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dumpling Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, water or dumpling broth, doubanjiang, chili oil, sugar, Chinese black vinegar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine and adjust sweetness or spice level to your taste.
  2. Steam the Dumplings: If using fresh or frozen dumplings, line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the dumplings inside and steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes until cooked through. No need to thaw frozen dumplings before steaming.
  3. Alternatively, Boil the Dumplings: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add frozen dumplings directly into the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface, indicating they are fully cooked. Remove the dumplings using a slotted spoon.
  4. Reserve Dumpling Water (Optional): Save some of the boiling water or broth as it can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce or warm the sauce before serving.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Use the prepared sauce as a dipping sauce or pour it generously over the plated dumplings. Garnish with chopped fresh scallions and coriander. Add more chili oil or chili sauce if desired for extra heat. Enjoy your flavorful steamed dumplings!

Notes

  • Doubanjiang is a spicy fermented chili bean paste adding depth and heat to the sauce; it can be found at Asian grocery stores or specialty markets.
  • You can use either Chinese black vinegar or rice vinegar depending on availability; black vinegar provides a deeper flavor.
  • If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the chili oil and doubanjiang.
  • Steaming dumplings preserves their delicate texture, but boiling offers a quicker alternative.
  • Always avoid thawing frozen dumplings before cooking; cook them straight from frozen for best results.
  • Garnishing with fresh herbs like scallions and coriander enhances flavor and presentation.

Keywords: steamed dumplings, dumpling sauce, Chinese appetizer, Asian dumplings, quick dumplings recipe, homemade dumpling sauce, spicy dipping sauce, Chinese black vinegar sauce