These Beef and Mushroom Dumplings in Broth are the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors. The tender beef combined with earthy mushrooms creates a filling that is both hearty and satisfying. Served in a warm beef broth, these dumplings are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cold day or whenever you’re craving something cozy and delicious.
This dish is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. The dumplings come together quickly with pre-made wonton wrappers, and the beef broth can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal recipe for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture.
Full Recipe:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 20 wonton wrappers
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, mushrooms, onion, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold over to form a triangle, and press to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- In a large pot, bring beef broth to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and gently add dumplings to the broth. Simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
- Ladle the broth and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Recipe Overview
This Beef and Mushroom Dumplings in Broth recipe is a delightful fusion of tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant Asian seasonings, all wrapped up in delicate wonton wrappers. The dumplings are gently simmered in a rich beef broth, creating a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something satisfying and flavorful. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend meal.
Health Benefits
Mushrooms are not only a delicious addition to these dumplings but also pack a nutritional punch. They are low in calories, high in antioxidants, and provide important nutrients like selenium, potassium, and vitamin D. Combined with lean ground beef, which is a good source of protein and iron, this dish offers a balanced meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. The beef broth adds additional flavor while keeping the dish relatively light in calories.
Cooking Tips
- Wonton Wrappers: Wonton wrappers can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, often near the produce or tofu. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use dumpling wrappers, but keep in mind they might be slightly thicker and require a bit longer to cook.
- Broth Variations: While beef broth adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish, you can also use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter taste. For a richer broth, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or a piece of ginger while simmering.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and freeze them for up to a month. Simply arrange the dumplings on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag, and when you’re ready to cook, add them directly to the simmering broth from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the hearty flavors of the Beef and Mushroom Dumplings in Broth, consider serving it with a light, refreshing side dish like a cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can also pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cultural Significance
Dumplings hold a special place in many cultures, particularly in Asian cuisine. In Chinese culture, dumplings symbolize wealth and prosperity, especially when shaped like ingots. They are often enjoyed during special occasions like Lunar New Year or family gatherings. This recipe is inspired by traditional Chinese dumplings but with a comforting twist that makes it accessible and enjoyable for all.
Ingredient Insights
- Ground Beef: When choosing ground beef for this recipe, you might want to opt for a leaner cut, such as 90% lean ground beef, to keep the dish lighter while still offering a robust flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, a slightly fattier mix (like 80% lean) will add more juiciness to the dumplings.
- Mushrooms: The type of mushrooms you use can significantly affect the flavor of the dumplings. Common white button mushrooms offer a mild taste, while cremini or shiitake mushrooms add a more earthy and intense flavor. Mushrooms not only enhance the umami of the dish but also provide a meaty texture that complements the ground beef well.
- Wonton Wrappers: These thin dough squares are traditionally used in Chinese cuisine and are key to achieving the delicate texture of the dumplings. If you’re up for a challenge, you could even make your own wrappers at home with just flour, water, and a bit of salt.
- Broth: The broth is the soul of this dish. A good-quality beef broth makes all the difference. You can make your own by simmering beef bones with aromatics like garlic, onions, and bay leaves for several hours. This will give you a deeply flavored, nutrient-rich broth that takes the dish to another level.
Technique and Preparation
- Filling the Dumplings: It’s important not to overfill the wonton wrappers, as this can cause them to burst during cooking. A heaping teaspoon of filling is usually just right. Make sure to press out any air pockets as you seal the edges to ensure the dumplings hold together in the broth.
- Sealing the Dumplings: To ensure the dumplings don’t open up while cooking, moisten the edges of the wrappers with water and press them firmly together. For a more decorative touch, you can pleat the edges, which also helps to secure the filling inside.
- Simmering vs. Boiling: When cooking the dumplings in the broth, it’s important to keep the liquid at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. Boiling can cause the dumplings to fall apart or become tough. A slow simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnishes: Fresh cilantro and green onions not only add a burst of color to the dish but also enhance its freshness. For a bit of heat, you can add a drizzle of chili oil or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving.
- Accompaniments: To complete the meal, consider serving these dumplings with a side of pickled vegetables, such as kimchi or pickled radishes. The acidity and crunch from the pickles balance the rich, savory broth and tender dumplings.
- Beverage Pairing: A light, aromatic tea like jasmine or green tea pairs beautifully with this dish. The tea’s subtle flavors won’t overpower the delicate broth, and its warmth complements the cozy feel of the meal. Alternatively, a light beer or a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, could also be a delightful pairing.
Nutritional Profile
While this dish is comforting and satisfying, it also offers a balanced nutritional profile. The ground beef provides essential protein and iron, which are crucial for energy and maintaining muscle mass. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being. The broth, especially if homemade, can be a good source of collagen and minerals like calcium and magnesium, which support joint and bone health.
Customization Options
- Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with a mixture of tofu and additional mushrooms. Crumbled tofu provides a similar texture to ground meat and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: If you need to make the dish gluten-free, you can find gluten-free wonton wrappers at specialty stores or online. Additionally, ensure that the soy sauce and oyster sauce you use are also gluten-free, as these often contain wheat.
- Spicy Variation: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the filling can give the dumplings an extra kick. You can also serve the dumplings with a spicy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili paste.
Cultural and Historical Context
Dumplings have a rich history that spans many cultures and cuisines. In China, dumplings are traditionally enjoyed during the Lunar New Year as they symbolize wealth and prosperity. The shape of the dumpling resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots, making them a popular dish to serve during celebrations.
The combination of beef and mushrooms in this recipe reflects the widespread appreciation of umami flavors in Asian cuisine. Umami, often described as the fifth taste, is a savory flavor that enhances the depth and complexity of a dish. The use of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil in this recipe also highlights the influence of traditional Chinese seasoning techniques, which aim to balance salty, sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
Cooking with Family
This recipe is a great opportunity to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Children can help with filling and sealing the dumplings, making it a fun and interactive way to spend time together in the kitchen. Cooking as a family not only teaches valuable culinary skills but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
Conclusion
Beef and Mushroom Dumplings in Broth is a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and tradition in a way that’s sure to please. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe is both versatile and satisfying. With its rich broth, tender dumplings, and savory filling, it’s a meal that will warm both your body and soul.
This dish is an excellent example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention to detail, can create something truly special. So go ahead and give this recipe a try—you might just find that it becomes a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.