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Shrimp and Chive Dumplings – Steamed and Fresh Low Calorie Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on November 6, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re on a journey to shed a few pounds but don’t want to sacrifice flavor, you’re in for a treat! Shrimp and chive dumplings are not only a delightful addition to your meal repertoire but also a fantastic weight loss recipe.

These steamed dumplings are packed with protein from the shrimp, vibrant garlic, and fresh chives, making them nutritious, satisfying, and downright delicious.

Let’s dive into the world of dumplings and explore why these little pockets of goodness can be both a feast for your taste buds and a friend to your waistline.

The Allure of Dumplings

Dumplings have a long-standing history in various cultures, from the Chinese jiaozi to the Italian ravioli.

They are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be filled with virtually anything. While many dumplings can be high in calories due to frying or heavy fillings, our shrimp and chive dumplings are a healthier alternative, thanks to their steaming method and wholesome ingredients.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Just 3 ounces of shrimp contains about 20 grams of protein and only 85 calories.

Additionally, shrimp are low in fat and rich in essential nutrients like iodine, which supports thyroid function. With 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. struggling with obesity, finding healthy protein sources is crucial for effective weight management.

The Power of Chives

Chives not only add a burst of flavor to our dumplings but also come with their own health benefits. They are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.

Interestingly, studies have shown that consuming allium vegetables, like garlic and chives, can support heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

With 45% of American adults looking to improve their diet, incorporating fresh ingredients like chives is a tasty solution.

Crafting Your Shrimp and Chive Dumplings

Now that we’ve established why these dumplings are a great choice for your health, let’s get to the fun part: making them!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own shrimp and chive dumplings from scratch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dumpling Filling:

  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumpling Wrappers:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup boiling water
  • A pinch of salt

Dipping Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumpling Wrappers

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the boiling water, stirring with a fork until the mixture comes together.
  • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

  • Finely chop the shrimp into small pieces or pulse in a food processor for a few seconds.
  • In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, chives, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

3. Roll Out the Wrappers

  • Divide the rested dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter. Try to keep the edges thinner than the center for better folding.

4. Assemble the Dumplings

  • Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
  • Pinch the edges together to seal. You can pleat the edges for a more traditional look if you like.

5. Steam the Dumplings

  • Prepare a steamer basket (or a bamboo steamer) lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between each dumpling to prevent sticking.
  • Steam the dumplings over boiling water for about 6-8 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through and the wrappers are translucent.

6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce

  • In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil (if using), and sesame seeds. Adjust the flavors to your liking.

Health Benefits of Steaming

One of the best things about these shrimp and chive dumplings is the cooking method. Steaming preserves the nutrients in the ingredients while keeping the calorie count low.

According to the USDA, steamed foods retain more vitamins and minerals compared to their fried counterparts. Plus, it’s a simple way to enhance the flavors without adding unnecessary fats.

Serving Suggestions

These dumplings can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a main dish. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad for a balanced meal.

You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as a spicy peanut sauce or a tangy ginger sauce, to keep things interesting!

Conclusion: A Guilt-Free Delight

Incorporating shrimp and chive dumplings into your diet is an enjoyable way to indulge without the guilt. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a wealth of health benefits that can support your weight loss journey.

So, why not gather some friends or family and make a dumpling party out of it? You’ll create a memorable meal that everyone will love, plus you’ll have fun in the process. Happy dumpling making!