Dumplings are a staple in many cuisines worldwide. From gyoza to creamy chicken soup with dumplings, they conjure memories of bustling kitchens and comforting home-cooked meals.
For the parent balancing a love for traditional cooking with the demands of a tight schedule and a desire for healthy meals, a question arises–can you bake dumplings? There are many ways to make dumplings, and you absolutely can bake them.
A Modern Twist on a Classic
Traditionally, dumplings are boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. However, the art of baking dumplings has become more popular as a way to save time and provide healthier versions of this delicious food.
Baking can be healthier than frying because it reduces the oil content in your meal and allows you to multitask more easily. You can let your dumplings bake to perfection while you finish other parts of the meal!
How to Bake Dumplings
Baking dumplings is a simple process. Here’s a guide to the basics:
Preparation
Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature, typically around 325 degrees Fahrenheit. While your oven is warming up, assemble your dumplings using your favorite recipe.
Arrangement
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the dumplings on the sheet, ensuring they do not touch. While not required, you can lightly brush the dumplings with oil or a beaten egg to give them a golden, crispy exterior.
Baking Process
Bake the dumplings for ten to fifteen minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Baked Dumplings Life
Dumplings might seem like a luxury, but they don’t have to be. They can be prepared in large batches and stored in the freezer, making for a quick and easy meal on hectic days.
This is especially true of baked dumplings, as you can put them straight in the oven and have a delicious, healthy snack in less than half an hour. Once you learn how to cook and how to reheat chicken and dumplings, you’ll never be without a fantastic meal at home.
Variations on a Classic
There are a few ways to dress-up your dumplings and enjoy variety, including:
Healthy Fillings
Dumplings are so universal because they are versatile. Beyond traditional pork or chicken filling, there are endless vegetarian iterations you can enjoy to pack in some extra fiber.
Dips
To elevate your baked dumplings, experiment with dips and sides. From soy sauce and vinegar to more inventive sauces, like spicy mayo and sweet chili, these additions can transform your experience with the same dumplings and fillings.
Sides
Consider adding a tray of seasoned vegetables in the oven alongside your dumplings. It’s an easy way to prepare a side of veggies that go well with the same dips without needing to put in too much extra effort.
Family Time
Making dumplings from scratch can be a fun family activity. Cooking with your children teaches them skills and makes memories they’ll have for a lifetime.
The Modern Dumpling
Even the classics adapt, and that’s certainly true of dumplings. Finding the best way to prepare dumplings will make it easier for you to bring more cooking into your life, which means more healthy eating and more quality time with your family!
