Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings – Best Fall Recipe

Sweet, spicy, and wrapped in golden, sesame-crusted wrappers, Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are the ultimate fall comfort food. Set in a warming ginger soy broth and topped with crunchy homemade chili crisp, these vegan dumplings bring together Chinese-inspired flavors with seasonal produce. Whether you’re a dumpling enthusiast or exploring meat-free meals, this dish is as satisfying as it is soul-warming — all while showcasing the deep, nutty sweetness of roasted butternut squash.

Why You’ll Love These Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings

These Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings aren’t just flavorful — they’re a celebration of texture, aroma, and balance. With a crispy sesame bottom and a velvety spiced filling, each bite contrasts beautifully with the umami-rich broth. They’re perfect for cozy dinners, meatless Mondays, or impressing guests with something truly unique. Plus, they’re naturally vegan and loaded with nutrient-rich seasonal squash.

Star Ingredients & Their Roles

• Butternut Squash: Provides a creamy, sweet, and earthy base that perfectly balances spice and salt.
• Curry Powder: Adds warmth and complexity, complementing the sweetness of the squash.
• Honey: Enhances the natural sweetness and gives the filling a sticky, comforting finish.
• Green Onions: Offers freshness and a mild bite, adding dimension to the filling.
• Wonton Wrappers: A convenient alternative to traditional dumpling skins, creating the perfect pouch for the filling.
• Sesame Seeds: Toast to crispy perfection, adding nuttiness and crunch to the dumpling bottoms.
• Shallots: Caramelized for a deep, savory sweetness in the broth.
• Ginger & Garlic: Core aromatics that form the backbone of the warming broth.
• Soy Sauce: Infuses the broth with rich umami and depth.
• Cinnamon: Adds subtle warmth, rounding out the flavors.
• Chili Crisp Sauce: Brings the final layer of heat, texture, and excitement to the dish.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing ingredients or need substitutions, try these options:

• Kabocha or Acorn Squash: Use instead of butternut squash for a similar texture and sweetness.
• Maple Syrup: A vegan alternative to honey that maintains the sticky sweetness.
• Leeks or Red Onion: Substitute for shallots in the broth for a similar depth.
• Tamari or Coconut Aminos: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
• Pre-made Dumpling Wrappers: Use store-bought gyoza skins or rice paper for variation.

How to Make Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss butternut squash with olive oil and curry powder on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
2. Prepare the Filling: Mash the roasted squash in a bowl with honey, chopped green onions, and a pinch of pepper until smooth but textured.
3. Assemble the Dumplings: Spoon 1 tablespoon of filling onto each wrapper. Moisten edges with water, then fold up and pinch the top to seal. For extra texture, brush the bottoms with water and press into sesame seeds.
4. Make the Broth: In a large skillet, sauté shallots in butter until soft and caramelized (10–15 minutes). Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and a pinch of cinnamon. Let it simmer gently.
5. Pan-Fry & Steam the Dumplings: In a clean skillet, heat oil over medium. Add dumplings, cooking 2–3 minutes until golden. Carefully add ¼ cup water, cover immediately, and steam for 4–5 minutes until tender.
6. Serve: Arrange dumplings in shallow bowls. Pour hot broth over them and finish with a spoonful of chili crisp sauce and fresh green onions.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overfill: Avoid tears in the wrappers by sticking to about 1 tablespoon of filling.
• Seal Tightly: Ensure a full seal to prevent the filling from leaking during steaming.
• Handle with Care: When adding water to the skillet, do so gently and step back to avoid splattering.
• Prep Ahead: You can roast the squash and even pre-fill the dumplings a day in advance.
• Make Extra: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray, then store in a bag for future cravings.

Delicious Pairings and Creative Variations

• Side Pairings: Serve with steamed bok choy, jasmine rice, or a crisp cucumber salad.
• Dipping Sauce: Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil for a quick dip.
• Spicy Version: Add diced Thai chili to the squash filling for an extra kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free wrappers and tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Make-Ahead: Dumplings can be assembled and frozen raw. Just pan-fry directly from frozen and extend steaming time by 2 minutes.

The Healing Comfort of Butternut Squash

Rich in vitamins A and C, butternut squash is not just flavorful — it’s a seasonal superfood. It supports immune health, vision, and digestion, making these dumplings not only comforting but nourishing too. The warming ginger broth complements the squash’s soothing qualities, making this dish ideal for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy pick-me-up.

By blending Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings with seasonal ingredients and bold Asian flavors, this recipe delivers both comfort and excitement in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply savor a quiet night in, this dish is a heartwarming, flavor-packed choice that you’ll return to all fall long.

Wrapping Up: Why You Need These Dumplings in Your Life

Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings bring the best of autumn comfort to your dinner table. With their crisp golden bottoms, warm spiced squash filling, and fragrant ginger broth, these dumplings are a satisfying fusion of textures and flavors. They’re easy to prepare, visually appealing, and make a great plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether served for a casual dinner or special gathering, they’re bound to steal the spotlight.

By using seasonal ingredients and a straightforward technique, this recipe not only embraces fall but redefines cozy cooking with a vibrant twist. It’s a must-try whether you’re a dumpling pro or a first-timer looking for an exciting kitchen adventure.

FAQ About Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings

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