Low carb chicken dumplings

Chicken dumplings are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. These low carb chicken dumplings are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional dumplings. Perfect for appetizers or casual dinners, they offer a burst of flavor with every bite. Made with wholesome ingredients, these dumplings are sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these dumplings quickly.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings an authentic taste that stands out.
• Versatile Dish: These dumplings can be served steamed or pan-fried, making them suitable for any occasion.
• Low Carb Delight: Each serving is low in carbs, making them a great option for those watching their carb intake.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, these dumplings provide a nutritious meal without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect low carb chicken dumplings, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Steamer basket
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Steamer basket: This tool helps cook the dumplings evenly while preserving their moisture and flavor.
• Frying pan: Perfect for those who want a crispy finish on their dumplings after steaming.

Ingredients

To make these delectable low carb chicken dumplings, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dumpling Filling

• 1 tsp peanut butter
• 1 tsp sriracha sauce
• 1 1/2 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp tamari soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsp fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 pinch + 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 lime
• 1 1/4 lbs ground chicken
• 1/2 tsp Szechuan pepper
• 1/2 tsp pandan powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 red onion
• 1/2 scallion
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)

For the Dumpling Wrappers

• 1 green cabbage

How to Make Low carb chicken dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Wrappers

• Bring a pot of water to boil.
• Carefully peel off whole leaves from the green cabbage.
• Blanch each leaf for about 30 seconds until pliable, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ginger garlic paste, peanut butter, sriracha sauce, tamari soy sauce, rice vinegar, cilantro, olive oil, Szechuan pepper, cayenne pepper, chopped red onion, and scallion.
• Squeeze in juice from half a lime and add salt. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated.

Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings

• Place about one tablespoon of filling onto each cabbage leaf.
• Fold the leaf over the filling and tuck in the sides to create a sealed pouch. Repeat until all filling is used.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

• If steaming: Arrange dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
• If pan-frying: Heat sesame oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add dumplings seam-side down. Cook until golden brown on one side, then add water (enough to cover base) and cover to steam for another 5 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade low carb chicken dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Low carb chicken dumplings

Low carb chicken dumplings are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, they pair beautifully with different flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A classic choice, soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor that complements the dumplings.
• Chili Oil: For those who love heat, chili oil provides a spicy kick that elevates each bite.
• Peanut Sauce: This creamy sauce brings a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with chicken.

In a Salad

• Cabbage Slaw: Serve your dumplings over a bed of fresh cabbage slaw for a crunchy contrast.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens adds freshness and balances the savory dumplings.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Arrange the dumplings alongside other appetizers like spring rolls or vegetable skewers for a delightful spread.
• Dim Sum Style: Present them in a bamboo steamer for an authentic dim sum experience, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

How to Perfect Low carb chicken dumplings

Making low carb chicken dumplings can be simple, but there are ways to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Bold Flavor Combinations: Use spices like ginger and garlic to infuse your filling with bold flavors.
• Bold Wrapping Technique: Ensure you seal the dumplings tightly to prevent any filling from leaking during cooking.
• Bold Cooking Methods: Experiment with steaming or pan-frying for different textures—steamed for softness and pan-fried for crispiness.
• Bold Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions for added freshness and color in your filling.

Best Side Dishes for Low carb chicken dumplings

Complementing your low carb chicken dumplings with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crunchy, flavorful side that pairs well with the dumplings.
2. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as a great base, soaking up any sauces from the dumplings.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar brings brightness to the meal.
4. Miso Soup: Warm miso soup is comforting and works well as an appetizer alongside the dumplings.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta and pair nicely with dipping sauces.
6. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds nutrition and a slight crunch, making it an ideal companion for the dumplings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking low carb chicken dumplings can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Using the wrong ground meat: Opt for high-quality ground chicken. Substituting it with other meats may alter the flavor and texture of your dumplings.
• Ignoring spice levels: Each ingredient adds its own flavor. Adjust spices like cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences to avoid overly spicy or bland dumplings.
• Not sealing dumplings properly: Ensure each dumpling is sealed tightly. This prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
• Overcooking the filling: Cook the filling just enough to blend flavors. Overcooking can result in dry and unappetizing dumplings.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough and filling to rest helps develop flavors and improves texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover low carb chicken dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them in a single layer if possible to prevent sticking.

Freezing Low carb chicken dumplings

• Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Low carb chicken dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water and covering until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about low carb chicken dumplings.

Can I make low carb chicken dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and either refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook.

What can I use instead of tamari soy sauce?

You can substitute it with coconut aminos or a homemade soy sauce alternative that fits your dietary needs.

How do I know when my low carb chicken dumplings are cooked?

They should be firm to touch and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Can I customize the filling for low carb chicken dumplings?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even try different proteins like turkey or beef.

Final Thoughts

Low carb chicken dumplings are not only delicious but also versatile. They make great appetizers or snacks. Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preference for added variety. Try this recipe today for a tasty treat!