Autumn Harvest Dumplings bring the cozy flavors of fall into a delightful bite-sized package. Packed with seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, kale, and pecans, these dumplings offer a warm, comforting touch to your table. They're the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season with friends and family.
All-purpose flour is the base for the dumpling dough, providing structure and a neutral canvas for the flavorful filling. Water helps bind the flour into a pliable dough. Butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture once cooked. Mushrooms bring an earthy depth of flavor and a meaty texture, perfect for vegetarians. Kale introduces a hint of bitterness and a pop of color. Pecans offer a nutty crunch that complements the softness of the other ingredients. Olive oil is used for sautéing, enhancing the flavor of the vegetables while keeping them moist. Rosemary adds an aromatic touch that ties the dish together. A pinch of salt and pepper is essential for seasoning. The dipping sauce made with soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder adds a tangy, sweet, and savory finish.
These dumplings pair wonderfully with a crisp, fresh salad featuring seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a bowl of miso soup or a simple vegetable stir-fry. A light, fruity white wine or a hot cup of green tea can complement the flavors beautifully.
Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
While the dough rests, prepare the filling. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and sauté until it becomes soft, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the chopped mushrooms, kale, pecans, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the filling is dry, about 5-7 minutes. This ensures the filling doesn't make the dumplings soggy.
Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal, forming a dumpling. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Steam the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until the dough is cooked through and slightly translucent. While the dumplings are steaming, mix together the soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder to create the dipping sauce.