If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful twist on dumplings, this recipe brings the heat and the heart. Imagine juicy steak, tangy chimichurri, and sweet caramelized onions tucked inside crispy-bottomed dumplings, served with a drizzle of homemade chili oil. It’s part comfort food, part flavor explosion – and totally worth making for a hangout with friends.

What you’ll need for the filling: 1/2 pound steak (like sirloin or flank) finely chopped or minced, 1 small thinly sliced onion, 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for caramelizing onions), 2 tablespoons chimichurri sauce (see below), salt and pepper to taste.

For the Chimichurri Sauce: 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley, 3 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional), salt and pepper to taste.

For the Dumplings: 1 pack round dumpling wrappers (found in most grocery stores), a bit of water (to seal the edges), and 1 tablespoon oil for frying.

For the Chili Oil: 1/4 cup oil (vegetable or sesame oil works), 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2  teaspoon minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce, optional: a pinch of sugar for balance

How to make them:

1. Caramelize the onions: In a pan on low heat, add butter and sliced onions. Cook slowly for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden and soft.

2. Prepare the steak filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped steak, caramelized onions, chimichurri sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything’s well coated.

3. Fill the dumplings: Place a wrapper in your hand, add a small spoonful of filling in the center, dip your finger in water, and trace the edge. Fold and pinch the sides together to seal.

4. Cook the dumplings: Heat oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add dumplings flat-side down and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden. Then, add 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and steam for 3-5 minutes until the water evaporates. BONUS TIP: For a crispy “dumpling skirt,” mix 1 teaspoon flour with 1/3 cup water and pour it around the dumplings before covering – you’ll get a crunchy lace edge!

5. Make them chili oil: Heat oil in a small pan until hot (but not smoking). Pour it over chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and sugar in a bowl. Stir and let cool.

Time to eat! Serve your dumplings hot with a drizzle of chili oil or a small bowl for dipping. The chimichurri brings a herby kick, the caramelized onion add sweetness, and the steak makes it hearty enough for dinner.

It’s not your typical dumpling – it’s bold, colorful, and full of personality. Just like the best food (and people) are.