Sweet Potato Dumplings with Peach-Thai Chili Sauce Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 3/4 cup peach jam
• 3/4 cup Thai-style sweet chili sauce
• 5 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (16 ounce) package wonton wrappers
• 12 tablespoons water, divided

Directions

1. Place sweet potatoes in a large pot. Cover with salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and coarsely mash. Let cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
2. While the sweet potatoes are cooling, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped apples and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly browned and crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. For the dipping sauce, combine peach jam, Thai-style sweet chili sauce, and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. For the dumpling filling, mix together the cooled mashed sweet potatoes, cooked apples, shredded Cheddar cheese, minced jalapeo, salt, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of cilantro in a medium bowl.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. For each dumpling, spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the filling onto the center of a wonton wrapper. Cover the remaining wrappers with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out as you work.
6. Dampen the edges of each wrapper with water, then fold it diagonally over the filling. Pinch the edges together to seal the dumpling. Transfer each dumpling to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Once all the dumplings are assembled, cover them with a damp towel.
7. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add 12 dumplings at a time to the skillet. Cook, turning once, until they are lightly browned, about 4 minutes.
8. Once browned, carefully add 3 tablespoons of water to the skillet. Cover and cook until the dumplings are softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
9. Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook until most of the water has evaporated, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the cooked dumplings to a serving dish.
10. Repeat the cooking process in batches, using the remaining dumplings, oil, and water.
11. Serve the dumplings with the prepared dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	88
Total Fat	2g (3% DV)
Saturated Fat	1g (3% DV)
Cholesterol	3mg (1% DV)
Sodium	99mg (4% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	15g (5% DV)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3% DV)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	2g (4% DV)
Vitamin C	4mg (4% DV)
Calcium	28mg (2% DV)
Iron	0mg (2% DV)
Potassium	83mg (2% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Sweet Potato Dumplings with Peach-Thai Chili Sauce

Sweet potato dumplings are a modern fusion dish that marries traditional Asian dumpling techniques with the rich, naturally sweet flavors of North American produce. While dumplings have been a staple in many Asian cuisines for centuries, the use of sweet potatoes as a filling is a more contemporary adaptation, reflecting both the global popularity of root vegetables and the creative experimentation of chefs combining sweet and savory elements. The addition of a peach-Thai chili sauce introduces a tangy, spicy-sweet contrast that elevates the dish from a simple appetizer to a sophisticated fusion treat.

Regional Variations and Influences

This dish represents a cross-cultural culinary trend, drawing influences from Southeast Asia and North America. In Thailand and surrounding regions, chili sauces often incorporate fruit for balance, which inspired the use of peach in this recipe. Meanwhile, sweet potatoes are a staple in American Southern cuisine, often roasted, mashed, or used in desserts. By combining these regional ingredients and techniques, the dish offers a unique flavor profile that is not traditionally found in either cuisine alone. Some variations may swap cheddar cheese for tofu or coconut-based alternatives to cater to vegan or vegetarian diets, reflecting regional dietary preferences.

Comparison with Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional dumplings that often feature pork, chicken, or shrimp fillings, these dumplings rely on a vegetable-forward mixture enhanced with cheese and fruit. The use of sweet potatoes sets them apart from other vegetable dumplings, which may include mushrooms, cabbage, or tofu. Additionally, the Peach-Thai chili sauce distinguishes them from standard dipping sauces such as soy-based or vinegar-based options, offering a balance of sweetness, heat, and acidity that is both refreshing and unexpected.

Where They Are Typically Served

Sweet potato dumplings with Peach-Thai chili sauce are most commonly served as an appetizer or party snack. They are ideal for gatherings, cocktail parties, or fusion-themed dinners, where their colorful appearance and layered flavors make them an eye-catching and flavorful option. Restaurants specializing in modern Asian fusion or upscale tapas-style dining may feature this dish on their menu, often presented in small, elegant portions accompanied by a drizzle of the spicy fruit sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Sweet potatoes, the main ingredient, are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, making these dumplings a slightly healthier alternative to traditional meat-filled dumplings.
• The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements is an example of the growing trend in global cuisine toward flavor layering, which enhances complexity in small bites.
• The dish can easily be adapted for vegan diets by substituting cheddar with plant-based cheese, showing its flexibility in modern cooking.
• Despite its seemingly complex flavor profile, the recipe is straightforward, demonstrating how fusion dishes can be approachable for home cooks.
• Serving dumplings with fruit-based sauces is a technique that has historical roots in Chinese cuisine, where plums or apricots were traditionally used to balance rich or fried foods.

FAQ about Sweet Potato Dumplings with Peach-Thai Chili Sauce Recipe