Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings together freshness, savory comfort, and a delightful kick of flavor, look no further than this Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce. It’s a spectacular combination of tender, juicy dumplings paired with crisp smashed cucumbers, all livened up by a creamy, tangy peanut sauce that ties every bite together. This recipe not only delights the palate but also offers a pleasing variety of textures and colors that make it as fun to eat as it is to admire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a dish full of character. From the chewy dumpling dough to the bright cucumber salad and rich peanut sauce, these essentials balance taste, texture, and color beautifully.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our soft, tender dumpling wrappers.
• 1/2 cup water: Added gradually to form a pliable, smooth dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the dough and seasoning in the salad.
• 1 cup ground pork or chicken: The heart of the dumpling filling, bringing juicy richness.
• 2 green onions finely chopped: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides deep umami notes in the filling and peanut sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Gives the filling a warm, nutty aroma.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Brightens and adds zest to the filling.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with a subtle pungency.
• 2 medium cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, perfect when smashed to soak up dressing.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a tangy brightness to the cucumber salad.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Forms the luscious base of the peanut sauce.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and saltiness to the peanut sauce.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice: Injects acidity and freshness to lift the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Rounds out the peanut sauce with natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat.
• 1/4 cup warm water: Used to thin the peanut sauce to your preferred consistency.

How to Make Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Make the Dumpling Dough

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour and salt in a large bowl to evenly distribute the seasoning. Gradually add water, stirring to bring the mixture together, then knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Resting it under a damp cloth for 15 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thinly and work with.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is resting, mix together ground pork or chicken with finely chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and garlic. This combination delivers a savory, aromatic filling that complements the dumpling wrapper perfectly—make sure everything is well combined for even flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Smash the Cucumbers

For the salad, cut each cucumber into quarters lengthwise, then use the flat side of a knife or a gentle mallet to smash them lightly. This technique creates jagged edges that help the cucumbers sponge up all the delicious dressing and add an appealing crunch to the salad.

Step 4: Dress the Cucumber Salad

Whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a bright, tangy dressing. Toss this over the smashed cucumbers and let them marinate while you continue with the dumplings. This step ensures the cucumbers soak in all the flavors for maximum freshness and zing.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dumpling Wrappers

After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter or a glass that’s roughly 3 inches in diameter, cut out circles that will become your dumpling wrappers. The thinner the dough, the more delicate and tender your dumplings will be.

Step 6: Fill and Seal the Dumplings

Spoon a small amount of the prepared filling into the center of each wrapper. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges firmly to seal. Take your time here—making sure no filling escapes during cooking keeps your dumplings intact and delicious.

Step 7: Cook the Dumplings

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and gently drop in the dumplings in batches. They cook quickly, floating to the surface after about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove them carefully with a slotted spoon and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the peanut sauce.

Step 8: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Gradually add warm water to thin the sauce, whisking until you reach a smooth and pourable consistency that will coat each bite with rich, nutty goodness.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the freshly cooked dumplings alongside the smashed cucumber salad and drizzle generously with the peanut sauce. This Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce is best enjoyed right away for the perfect marriage of hot, cooling, and creamy flavors.

How to Serve Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

To elevate this vibrant dish, consider garnishing with chopped roasted peanuts for crunch, fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbaceous aroma, or thinly sliced red chili for an extra hint of spice. These simple touches add visual appeal and layers of flavor that make eating even more exciting.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands well on its own as a satisfying meal, but if you want to round out your menu, try serving with steamed jasmine rice or a light stir-fried vegetable medley. A bowl of miso soup or a crisp Asian slaw also pairs wonderfully without overshadowing the stars of the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the dumplings in a circular pattern around a mound of smashed cucumber salad with a small bowl of peanut sauce in the center for dipping. Alternatively, serve everything family-style to encourage sharing and conversation, making your meal feel as warm and inviting as the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the dumplings and cucumber salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures distinct and lets you enjoy fresh flavors the next day without sogginess.

Freezing

Dumplings freeze beautifully. Place uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. When ready, cook them straight from frozen by adding a minute or two to the boiling time. Avoid freezing the cucumber salad or peanut sauce as the textures won’t hold up well.

Reheating

Reheat cooked dumplings by steaming or pan-frying them gently to maintain their tender, juicy filling and crisp edges. The cucumber salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating it. The peanut sauce can be stirred and served as is or warmed slightly if preferred.

FAQs

Can I use other meats for the dumpling filling?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or pork are traditional and delicious, but you can also use turkey, beef, or even finely chopped vegetables for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasonings accordingly to complement your choice.

How do I prevent dumplings from sticking to each other?

Make sure to dust your workspace and dumplings with flour when assembling. After cooking, toss dumplings lightly in a drizzle of oil if storing briefly to keep them from sticking together.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The sauce includes red pepper flakes for optional heat, so you can customize its spice level by adding less or more depending on your taste. Without flakes, it’s creamy and mildly sweet, perfect for all palates.

Can I make the sauce without peanut butter?

If you have a peanut allergy or preference, you can try substituting with tahini or sunflower seed butter, though the flavor will differ. Adjust the other ingredients as needed for balance.

What is the best way to smash cucumbers?

Using the flat side of a large knife or a kitchen mallet works best—apply gentle but firm pressure to crush the cucumber quarters just enough to release the juices and create lovely rustic edges that soak up dressing.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dive into this Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce because it’s a genuinely joyous dish to make and enjoy with friends or family. The harmony of flavors and textures is downright addictive, and once you get the hang of the dough and folding technique, it’s incredibly rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves and bring a bit of vibrant, homemade deliciousness into your kitchen—you’re going to love every bite.

Dumpling And Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 18 reviews

• Author: Noah
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 dumplings (serves 4) 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

This recipe features tender dumplings filled with a savory pork or chicken mixture, served alongside a refreshing smashed cucumber salad. The dish is elevated with a creamy, tangy peanut sauce that adds a perfect balance of flavors and a hint of spice. Ideal for a light yet satisfying meal, this combination is easy to prepare and brings a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dumpling Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Dumpling Filling

• 1 cup ground pork or chicken
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Smashed Cucumber Salad

• 2 medium-sized cucumbers
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Peanut Sauce

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup warm water (to thin the sauce)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumpling Dough: In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with salt. Gradually add water while mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
2. Make the Filling: While the dough rests, combine ground pork or chicken with finely chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated and set aside.
3. Prepare the Smashed Cucumber Salad: Cut cucumbers into quarters lengthwise, then smash them gently with the flat side of a knife or mallet to create uneven, craggy edges. Place the smashed cucumbers in a mixing bowl.
4. Marinate the Cucumbers: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the smashed cucumbers and toss well to coat. Allow the salad to marinate while you prepare the dumplings.
5. Roll and Cut Dough: After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a 3-inch diameter cutter or cup to cut out round circles for the dumplings.
6. Fill and Seal Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges tightly to seal, ensuring no filling leaks out during cooking.
7. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook the dumplings in batches by dropping them into the boiling water. Boil for 5-6 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain.
8. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and red pepper flakes if using. Gradually add warm water while whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
9. Serve: Arrange the cooked dumplings on plates alongside the smashed cucumber salad. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the dumplings or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy the dish hot for best flavor.

Notes

• You can substitute ground chicken with ground pork or use a mix of both depending on preference.
• To keep dumplings from sticking, dust them lightly with flour or cornstarch before cooking.
• The smashed cucumber salad can be adjusted with more or less vinegar and sugar according to taste.
• The peanut sauce is adjustable in thickness; add more water to thin or more peanut butter to thicken.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the meat filling with crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms.
• If you prefer a milder peanut sauce, omit the red pepper flakes.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer / Main Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 dumplings with salad and sauce
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: dumplings, smashed cucumber salad, peanut sauce, Asian recipe, homemade dumplings, appetizer, easy dinner