Once Upon A Thyme – Beef Dumplings with Sesame Garlic Soy Sauce

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Adina Yaakov
These savory beef dumplings feature a flavorful filling of ground beef, onions, and garlic, all wrapped in delicate wonton wrappers. Steamed to perfection, they’re served with a rich and savory garlic soy sauce, garnished with fresh scallions and sesame seeds. Wontons originated in China and are a beloved dish across many Asian cultures, often enjoyed as appetizers or snacks. These dumplings can alternatively be fried for a crispy, crunchy texture, or dropped raw into a soup as well. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or addition to your favorite soup! 

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Wonton wrappers (about 20-30)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1-2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sesame Garlic Soy Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce
  • 1-2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:
Cook the Beef:
In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and soft.
Add the ground beef to the pan, season with 1 tbsp kosher salt, and cook until browned. Use a masher tool to break the beef into fine crumbles for a smooth filling.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Set the beef mixture aside to cool slightly.
 
Prepare the Wontons:
Place a wonton wrapper in your hand and add about 1 teaspoon of the beef mixture in the center.
Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water (using your finger or a brush).
Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle or “taco” shape, then press the edges to seal tightly. If the edges dry out, add a little more water to ensure a good seal.
Bring the two ends together and pinch them together to form a round dumpling. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
 
Steam the Wontons:
Set up your steamer basket or use the steaming attachment on a rice cooker. Bring water to a boil.
Arrange the filled wontons in a single layer in the steamer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Steam for about 10 minutes, until the wontons are cooked through and the wrappers are tender.
 
Make the Garlic Soy Sauce:
In a small jar or bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and garlic. Shake or stir well until the sugar dissolves.
If you like a bit of heat, add chili flakes to taste.
 
Serve:
Garnish the steamed wontons with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Serve with garlic soy sauce for dipping.