Save to Pinterest Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with these Caramelized French Onion Soup Dumplings. This recipe takes the soul-warming, savory depth of a traditional French onion soup and transforms it into a crispy, bite-sized appetizer. Each dumpling is packed with slow-cooked, balsamic-glazed onions and molten Gruyère cheese, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite that is perfect for entertaining.
Save to Pinterest These dumplings are not just a snack; they are a conversation starter. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a special vegetarian treat, the rich aroma of onions sautéed in butter and thyme will fill your kitchen with warmth. Topped with a savory broth drizzle, they bring all the best elements of the soup pot directly to your appetizer platter.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp dry sherry or white wine
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
For the Dumplings
- 24 round dumpling wrappers (gyoza or wonton style)
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, finely grated
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Broth Drizzle
- 1/2 cup rich vegetable or beef broth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the caramelized onions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until onions soften (about 10 minutes). Sprinkle in sugar and thyme. Continue cooking on low, stirring frequently, until onions are deep golden brown (15–20 minutes more). Add sherry (or wine) and balsamic vinegar; cook 2–3 minutes until liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and cool.
- 2. Assemble the dumplings
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Add 1 heaping teaspoon of caramelized onion in the center. Top with a small pinch of Gruyère, Parmesan, and chives. Brush edges with beaten egg, fold and pleat to seal into a half-moon or purse shape. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- 3. Cook the dumplings
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add dumplings in a single layer without crowding. Fry until bottoms are golden (2–3 minutes). Add 1/4 cup water, cover immediately, and steam for 3–4 minutes until wrappers are tender. Remove lid and cook until bottoms crisp again, about 1 minute. Transfer to a platter.
- 4. Prepare the broth drizzle
- In a small saucepan, heat broth, butter, and Worcestershire sauce until butter melts. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle a small spoonful over each dumpling before serving or serve on the side for dipping.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure success, use a large skillet for the onions and a dedicated nonstick frying pan with a tight-fitting lid for the dumplings. A dumpling press can help with consistent shaping, but your hands work just as well for authentic pleating. Use a slotted spoon when moving the dumplings to prevent excess oil from reaching the serving platter.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize these dumplings to fit dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute the butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives and use an egg replacer or water for sealing the wrappers. If you cannot find Gruyère, Swiss or Emmental cheese are excellent substitutes. For those with gluten sensitivities, look for certified gluten-free dumpling wrappers.
Serviervorschläge
Present these golden dumplings on a large platter and drizzle them with the warm broth mixture right before serving. For an added layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle with crispy fried shallots. They pair beautifully with a chilled glass of dry white wine or a crisp sparkling beverage to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Save to Pinterest With their rich filling and satisfying crunch, these Caramelized French Onion Soup Dumplings are sure to become a favorite in your appetizer rotation. Enjoy the deep, sweet flavors of the onions paired with the nutty melted cheese for a truly gourmet experience at home.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve perfect caramelized onions?
Cook onions slowly over medium heat with butter and oil, stirring frequently until they turn deep golden brown, about 25-30 minutes in total.
- → Can I substitute Gruyère cheese?
Yes, Swiss or Emmental cheeses offer a similar melt and flavor profile suitable for the filling.
- → What’s the best way to cook dumplings for crispy bottoms?
Pan-fry dumplings in a thin layer of oil until golden, then add water and cover to steam, finishing uncovered to crisp again.
- → How do I seal the dumplings properly?
Use a lightly beaten egg to brush the edges, then fold and pleat the wrappers firmly to prevent leakage during cooking.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Substitute plant-based butter and vegan cheese, and replace the egg with an appropriate binder like aquafaba or flax egg.
