If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously simple meal that packs a punch of flavor and warmth, this Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. The magic lies in the luscious peanut sauce that tenderly cradles perfectly cooked dumplings and vibrant broccoli, all baked to perfection in one dish. It’s comforting, savory, and just waiting to impress your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy peanut butter that forms the base of the sauce to the fresh herbs that brighten the final dish, every addition counts.
- ¼ cup sliced green onions: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color to finish the dish beautifully.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a burst of herbal brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Offers a subtle nutty crunch that complements the peanut sauce perfectly.
- 2–4 tablespoons chili crisp (optional, for spice): Adds a fiery kick and texture if you like a bit of heat in your meal.
- 2 cups broth or water: Acts as the flavorful liquid base that helps the sauce coat every dumpling.
- â…” cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient creating a luscious, creamy sauce with depth and richness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a gentle pungency.
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings savory umami notes that marry perfectly with the peanut and garlic.
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the sauce and balances the flavors.
- 14–20 frozen dumplings (depending on dish size): The delightful bite-sized parcels that soak up all the savory peanut goodness.
- 2 cups broccoli florets, trimmed into small pieces: Adds a nutritious, slightly crunchy contrast and fresh color.
How to Make Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a medium casserole dish or an oven-safe braiser to hold all those delicious ingredients. This setup ensures even baking and plenty of space for those dumplings and broccoli to bathe in the sauce.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
Pour the broth into your baking dish followed by the creamy peanut butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Grab a whisk or fork and mix these together until the sauce is mostly smooth. This step is key to getting that silky texture that will cling to every dumpling.
Step 3: Arrange the Dumplings
Place your frozen dumplings flat-side down directly into the peanut sauce. Then, spoon some of the sauce over the tops of the dumplings, making sure each bit is beautifully coated. This helps the dumplings steam and soak up that incredible peanut flavor as they bake.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
Scatter the broccoli florets around the dumplings, nestling them into the sauce so they’re partially covered. This way, they’ll steam and roast at the same time, staying tender but with just enough bite to contrast the soft dumplings.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil to trap steam and bake for 20 minutes. This gentle cooking method helps the dumplings cook through evenly without drying out, while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Uncover and Thicken
After 20 minutes, remove the cover, give the sauce a gentle stir to mix all those delicious juices, and let the dish sit uncovered for another 5 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly for a richer, clingier coating.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the dish generously with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds. If you like things a bit spicy, add a drizzle or dollop of chili crisp on top for an irresistible burst of flavor and texture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe directly from the baking dish, inviting everyone to dig in and savor the comforting peanut sauce mingled with tender dumplings and vibrant veggies.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are what make this dish pop on the plate. The combination of sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds not only adds refreshing color but also layers of subtle crunch and herbal brightness that cut through the richness of the peanut sauce. For spice lovers, a touch of chili crisp turns up the heat and adds tantalizing texture.
Side Dishes
Because the dumplings and sauce are already rich and flavorful, simple sides work best. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice complements the sauce perfectly, soaking up those flavors. A crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables bring a cool, acidic counterpoint that refreshes the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these dumplings over a bed of chopped greens or quinoa to turn it into a wholesome bowl meal. You could also plate individual servings with a separate drizzle of peanut sauce and a sprinkle of extra herbs for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to wow guests or family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce might thicken in the fridge, so keep the dumplings and broccoli submerged or spoon some extra broth into the container before sealing. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining much of their delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place any leftover dumplings with sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some headroom for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the broccoli may soften further after thawing and reheating, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to rewarm the sauce and ensure the dumplings are heated through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh dumplings instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh dumplings will work well, but keep an eye on the baking time as they might cook more quickly. Adjust baking time by a few minutes to avoid overcooking.
What type of peanut butter works best for this recipe?
Creamy peanut butter is best because it blends smoothly into the sauce, creating that rich, silky texture. Natural peanut butter with no added sugar or salt is perfect if you want to control the flavor more precisely.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan option for the broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works great here ensuring the sauce remains flavorful without any animal products. Just be sure to choose a broth that suits your dietary needs and flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe spicy for kids?
You can adjust the chili crisp amount or omit it entirely. The dish is flavorful and creamy enough to please children even without the added heat.
How do I ensure the sauce doesn’t dry out in the oven?
Covering the dish during the first part of baking traps steam, which prevents drying. Also, stirring the sauce after uncovering and letting it thicken off heat helps maintain a luscious consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe is a true kitchen delight that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for those nights when you want something easy yet impressive. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together textures, flavors, and colors in such a satisfying way. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
Print
Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy dumplings with a rich, creamy peanut sauce and fresh vegetable accompaniment. The dish is baked in the oven for a perfect blend of savory flavors, enhanced by aromatic garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of spice from optional chili crisp. Finished with fresh herbs and sesame seeds, this comforting meal serves 4 and can be prepared quickly with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Dumplings and Sauce
- 14–20 frozen dumplings (depending on dish size)
- 2 cups broth or water
- â…” cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups broccoli florets, trimmed into small pieces
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2–4 tablespoons chili crisp (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a medium casserole dish or oven-safe braiser for cooking.
- Prepare Sauce: In the baking dish, pour in the broth and add creamy peanut butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Whisk the mixture until it is mostly smooth and well combined.
- Arrange Dumplings: Place the frozen dumplings flat-side down into the peanut sauce, then spoon some sauce over each dumpling to ensure they are well coated.
- Add Broccoli: Arrange the broccoli florets around the dumplings, making sure they are partially covered by the sauce for even cooking and flavor infusion.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to cook dumplings and soften broccoli.
- Thicken Sauce: Remove the cover and gently stir the sauce. Let the dish sit uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions, chopped fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and optional chili crisp for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the dumplings and broccoli directly from the baking dish while warm and enjoy this flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of chili crisp to control the spice level or omit it completely for a milder flavor.
- For extra texture, consider toasting the sesame seeds lightly before garnishing.
- Use vegetable or chicken broth depending on dietary preference or for added flavor.
- Frozen dumplings can be either pork, chicken, vegetable, or any variety preferred.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe lid, aluminum foil works well for covering during baking.
