Shrimp and Chive Dumplings

When you take a bite of soft, succulent dumplings filled with a harmonious mix of shrimp and chives, the delightful burst of flavor transports you straight to a bustling street food market. This recipe for Shrimp and Chive Dumplings is quick and rewarding, taking just about an hour to prepare and cook. The combination of fresh ingredients and delicate wrappers makes it a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a weekend cooking project, these dumplings can also be made ahead and frozen for later use. They’re easy to store, ensuring you always have a delicious meal option on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The delicate texture of the wonton skin pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp filling.
• Preparing these dumplings is a fun, hands-on experience perfect for any cooking enthusiast.
• The soy-vinegar dipping sauce adds a tangy kick that elevates each bite.
• They can be pan-fried for a crispy exterior or steamed for a softer option.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to get started on your dumplings.

For the Filling

• 12 oz. shrimp, peeled and deveined, medium to big size
• 1 oz. chives, cut into very short pieces
• 1 teaspoon egg white
• 1/2 teaspoon tapioca starch (菱粉)
• 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 dashes white pepper powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon oil

For the Wrapping

• Wonton skin
• Some cooking oil (for pan-frying)

For the Dipping Sauce

• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Chinese black vinegar

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chives can be replaced with green onions.
• Fish sauce can be swapped with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
• Wonton skin can be substituted with dumpling wrappers.
• Tapioca starch can be replaced with cornstarch.

How to Make It

Start by creating a flavor-packed filling for your dumplings.

1. Clean and prepare shrimp

Rinse the shrimp with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Mix the filling

Cut the shrimp into small pieces, add chives, and mix well with other filling ingredients. Marinate the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

3. Prepare the wonton skins

Lay a wonton skin on a flat surface. Dab your index finger with water and trace along the four outer edges.

4. Fill and fold dumplings

Add a teaspoon of filling to the center of the wonton skin and fold it over towards the middle to form a dumpling. Seal it tightly with water.

5. Cook the dumplings

Heat a pan over medium-low heat and add some cooking oil. Place all the dumplings in the pan and cover with a lid. Pan-fry until golden brown on one side, then flip to cook the other side, adding more oil if necessary.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Steam or pan-fry for 5 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture.
• Use enough water when sealing the dumplings to avoid opening during cooking.
• Pan-fry until perfectly golden for a delightful crunch.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Pair with hot chili oil for an added kick.
• Enjoy as an appetizer at your next dinner party.