These Savory Mushroom & Spinach Dumplings bring a delightful twist to your table with their earthy, umami flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a unique appetizer, they’re both vegetarian-friendly and irresistibly delicious.
Mushrooms are the star of this recipe, providing a hearty texture and deep umami flavor. Use your favorite variety, like button or cremini. Spinach adds a touch of freshness and nutrition, balancing the dish. Soy sauce enhances the savory notes, while sesame oil imparts a nutty aroma. The ginger and garlic introduce warmth and depth, making the filling irresistibly fragrant. Green onions give a subtle sharpness that complements the other ingredients. Finally, dumpling wrappers hold everything together, while vegetable oil ensures a crispy, golden finish.
Pair these dumplings with a simple soy sauce and vinegar dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. They also go well with a light cucumber salad to complement the savory filling. For a bit of heat, serve with a side of chili oil.
Start by heating sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the garlic and ginger, sautéing them just until their aroma fills the kitchen. Next, toss in the mushrooms. Cook them until they release their moisture and take on a nice brown color, which should take about five minutes.
After the mushrooms are ready, stir in the spinach, soy sauce, and green onions. Continue cooking for another two to three minutes, just until the spinach has wilted. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool a bit before handling.
Prepare your dumpling wrappers by placing a small spoonful of the cooled filling into the center of each one. Use a bit of water to moisten the edges, then fold the wrapper over and pleat to seal the dumpling tightly.
Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the dumplings in the skillet, ensuring they have some space between them. Cook until the bottoms turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take about two to three minutes.
Carefully add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet, then cover it immediately to steam the dumplings. Let them cook for about five minutes until the water has evaporated and the dumplings are cooked through. Remove the lid and let them cook for another minute to crisp up the bottoms.