Vegan Cauliflower Dumplings

Vegan Cauliflower Dumplings are tender, delicious, and are especially good when you are in the mood to have a light, yet filling meal. These dumplings employ well-cooked cauliflower blended with herbs and spices and basic dough to make little cocoons of comfort. This dumpling version is entirely plant-based, unlike conventional dumplings that are rather meat or cheese-reliant, and it does not seem any less hearty. These Vegan Cauliflower Dumplings may be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. Use as a first course, side, or even main with soup or salad.

STATS

• Diet: Vegan, Dairy-free, Low-fat
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Appetizer, Main
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Serving Size: 5
• Yield: 25–30
• Difficulty: Medium
• Cooking Method: Steaming, boiling, or pan-frying
• Total Time: 45 minutes

EQUIPMENT

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Steamer basket or skillet with lid
• Rolling pin
• Small spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

INGREDIENTS

• Two cups of coarsely chopped, steaming cauliflower florets
• Half a cup of finely chopped onion
• Two minced garlic cloves
• One tablespoon of tamari or soy sauce
• A tablespoon of sesame oil
• Two tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro
• Half a teaspoon of black pepper, ground to taste, add salt.
• One package of roughly thirty vegan dumpling wrappers
• Water for sealing Grated ginger or chili flakes are optional for added spiciness.

INGREDIENT NOTES

Cauliflower:

• Softens and mashing is not difficult when cooked. It imparts substance to the filling and remains light.

Onion:

• They provides sweetness and crunch. Lightly cooked to take away the harshness.

Garlic:

• Adds flavor and savory richness. Fresh garlic works best.

Soy sauce:

• Gives a rich, salty flavor. Use tamari for gluten-free.

Sesame oil:

• Sugary and perfumed. Even a little goes a long way.

Cilantro:

• Adds freshness. Cilantro does not taste great, so in its place, you can use parsley.

Dumpling wrappers:

• Vegan wrappers are time-saving store-bought options. Make them at home, roll them thin, that’s best.

Seasoning:

• The flavors are moderated with black pepper and salt. Chili pepper or ginger has a warming effect.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sauté the cauliflower till it becomes soft.
2. Let cool somewhat before chopping.
3. Add a little sesame oil to a skillet and cook the garlic and onion for two to three minutes, till they’re scented.
4. In a bowl, combine the cauliflower, herbs, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, onion, and salt & pepper. Mix.
5. On a level surface, lay one wrapper.
6. Put one dollop of the filling in the center.
7. Water should be sprayed on the edges.
8. To seal, fold the wrapper in half and press the edges tightly. If you like, plead.
9. Continue using the remaining wrappers and filling.
10. To steam: Put the dumplings in a parchment-lined steamer basket.
11. Let it steam for almost ten minutes.
12. Drop dumplings into simmering water to bring to a boil. Cook for 3–4 minutes, till they float.
13. Warm up a small amount of oil in a skillet to pan-fry.
14. Cook the dumplings till golden, flat-side down.
15. Cover and steam for 4 minutes after adding ¼ cup water.
16. Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce.

TIPS

• Wrappers should be kept under a damp towel to prevent drying up.
• Do not fill dumplings too full, or they will burst open as they cook.
• Serve with soy, chili oil, or sesame dipping sauce.
• To make ahead, prepare and freeze uncooked dumplings. Cook straight from frozen.

STORAGE INFORMATION

Fridge:

• For the next three days, you can store it in a sealed box. Reheat using steam or pan frying.

Freezer:

• Place uncooked dumplings on a tray, then place them into a bag. Bake straight out of the freezer.

FAQs

Would I be able to prepare the wrappers myself?

• Yes. To make fresh wrappers, add warm water to a mix of flour, knead, and roll out into thin circles.

Are these dumplings gluten-free?

• Yes, but you have to use gluten-free wrappers and tamari, rather than soy sauce.

Can I bake dumplings instead?

• Yes, brush with oil and bake at 375°F (190 °C) 15-18 minutes, till golden.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Calories: 160
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 3 g Fat: 6 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Iron: 8% DV