Onion soup dumplings are a delightful culinary fusion, combining the comforting richness of French onion soup with the irresistible charm of dumplings. Imagine biting into a soft, delicate dumpling shell, only to be greeted by the warm, savory broth inside, much like the traditional French soup. The dumpling’s exterior holds in the rich, aromatic flavors of caramelized onions, melted cheese, and the savory broth that makes the soup so iconic. This fusion dish isn’t just a meal-it’s an experience. The moment you pierce the dumpling with your chopsticks or spoon, and the hot, flavorful broth floods your taste buds, you’ll understand why onion soup dumplings are quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Creating this dish at home might seem challenging, but it’s actually simpler than you think. With the right ingredients and a few key tips, you can easily master this recipe and wow your family or friends at the dinner table. So, let’s dive into this mouthwatering journey and learn how to make the ultimate onion soup dumplings from scratch.
Onion Soup Dumplings Recipe
This recipe combines the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup with the delightful, juicy bite of dumplings. It’s all about creating a flavorful broth, perfecting the dumpling dough, and assembling everything to keep that broth sealed inside until it’s ready to burst in your mouth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious little parcels of joy.
Ingredients Needed
To make onion soup dumplings, you’ll need a mix of basic pantry ingredients, plus a few fresh items to elevate the flavors. Here’s your shopping list:
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For The Broth
- 4 large yellow onions (preferably sweet varieties like Vidalia)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken the broth)
- 4 cups beef broth (for that rich, deep flavor; you can also use chicken broth for a lighter version)
- 1 cup dry white wine (adds depth, but you can skip it or use vegetable broth if you prefer non-alcoholic)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For The Dumpling Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup warm water (add more if necessary to bring the dough together)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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For The Filling
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (this is the key to getting that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (for a pop of color and freshness)
- Additional cheese for topping (optional but highly recommended)
Cooking Instructions
Now let’s get to the fun part-the actual cooking! It’s a multi-step process, but nothing too complicated if you follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Prepare The Onion Broth
- Caramelize the Onions: Start by thinly slicing your onions. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized. This step is key to unlocking the deep, sweet flavor of French onion soup.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. This helps thicken the broth later and creates a silky texture.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth), wine (if using), thyme, and sugar. Stir well, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The broth should be rich, flavorful, and slightly thickened by the flour.
Step 2: Prepare The Dumpling Dough
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, crack the eggs into the well, and gradually add the warm water while mixing with your hands or a fork. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle with a bit more flour.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble The Dumplings
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick. Using a round cutter (or the rim of a glass), cut circles about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Stuff the Dumplings: Place a spoonful of the onion broth and a little bit of shredded Gruyère cheese in the center of each dough circle. You want to be careful not to overfill them, or they’ll burst open during cooking.
- Seal the Dumplings: Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together, ensuring they’re tightly sealed. You can twist the top to form a little pouch or leave it as is, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Cook The Dumplings
- Boil the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the dumplings in, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Boil them for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the dough is cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully remove the dumplings from the water with a slotted spoon. Place them in bowls, ladle the remaining onion broth over them, and top with more shredded Gruyère cheese if desired. For a final touch, sprinkle with some fresh parsley for color.
Ingredient Insights
- Onions: The heart of this dish is the onions. Their natural sweetness deepens as they caramelize, providing a rich base for the broth. Yellow onions work best, but you can also experiment with a mix of onions for a more complex flavor.
- Beef Broth: The beef broth is what gives the onion soup its signature richness. For a truly decadent version, use homemade broth, or a high-quality store-bought variety. Low-sodium options are great for controlling the salt level.
- Gruyère Cheese: This cheese is the perfect balance of creamy, salty, and nutty. It melts beautifully and contributes to the luxurious texture of the filling. If you can’t find Gruyère, Swiss cheese is a good substitute.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Caramelizing: The more you caramelize the onions, the better the flavor. This process adds depth and a slight sweetness to the broth.
- Dough Consistency: If your dumpling dough feels too stiff, add more water, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, dust with flour, but be careful not to overdo it as this could make the dumplings dense.
- Filling Tips: For an extra touch, consider adding a few small cubes of aged Gouda or Parmesan in with the Gruyère for a more complex cheese profile.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef broth and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. You can also swap the cheese for a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the onion filling to introduce a little heat to the dish. This works particularly well if you enjoy spicy foods.
- Herbed Dumplings: Mix some finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the dumpling dough for a fragrant, herby twist that complements the onion broth.
Final Words
Onion soup dumplings are a fantastic way to experience the comforting flavors of French onion soup in a whole new form. They’re rich, savory, and utterly satisfying, with each bite offering the perfect balance of cheese, broth, and tender dough. While making these dumplings from scratch requires a bit of time and patience, the payoff is well worth the effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something cozy for yourself, these dumplings will leave you-and your guests-coming back for more.
FAQs
What Are Onion Soup Dumplings?
Onion soup dumplings are a unique fusion of traditional soup dumplings and French onion soup. They feature a savory, rich broth made from caramelized onions, wrapped in a dough, and steamed or boiled to create a juicy, flavorful bite.
How Do You Make The Filling For Onion Soup Dumplings?
To make the filling for onion soup dumplings, you first need to caramelize onions in butter or oil, and then mix them with beef or vegetable broth. This mixture is reduced and allowed to cool before being wrapped in dumpling dough.
Can I Use Store-bought Dumpling Wrappers For Onion Soup Dumplings?
Yes, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers to save time. However, if you want a more authentic experience, you can make your own dumpling dough using flour, water, and salt for a softer texture.
What Type Of Broth Is Best For Onion Soup Dumplings?
The best broth for onion soup dumplings is a rich, flavorful beef broth. However, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for a vegetarian version, ensuring it has a deep umami taste to complement the caramelized onions.
How Do You Seal The Dumplings So The Broth Doesn’t Leak Out?
To seal the dumplings properly, pinch the edges of the dough together carefully and twist to form a pouch. Make sure the dumpling is sealed tightly, as any gaps will cause the broth to leak during cooking.
Can You Freeze Onion Soup Dumplings?
Yes, onion soup dumplings can be frozen. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or bag for storage. Steam them directly from frozen without thawing.
How Long Do Onion Soup Dumplings Take To Cook?
Onion soup dumplings typically take about 8-10 minutes to steam or boil, depending on the size of the dumplings. They should be steamed until the dough is fully cooked and the broth inside is piping hot.
What Type Of Cheese Is Typically Used In Onion Soup Dumplings?
Gruyère cheese is the most common choice for onion soup dumplings, as it melts well and has a nutty, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the richness of the broth.
Can I Add Other Ingredients To The Filling, Like Meat Or Vegetables?
Yes, you can add other ingredients like shredded beef, pork, or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and texture. However, make sure the filling is not too watery, as it can affect the dumpling’s structural integrity.
What Should I Serve With Onion Soup Dumplings?
Onion soup dumplings are a hearty dish and can be served with a simple side salad, sautéed vegetables, or a light dipping sauce. Pairing them with crusty bread can also enhance the French onion soup theme.