Baked Shrimp and Chive Dumplings

When these came out of the oven, we accidentally ate 5 before putting out dinner!

Ingredients:

• 20 rice paper wrappers (6-inch diameter)
• 1 pound cooked shrimp, roughly diced
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing
• Tamarind sauce (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a baking sheet or spray it with nonstick spray.
2. In a bowl, mix the diced shrimp, chives, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Soak a rice paper wrapper in warm water for 10-15 seconds until pliable but not too soft. Place it on a damp, clean dish towel.
4. Place a spoonful of the shrimp mixture at the base of the rice paper, leaving space at the edges.
5. Roll up the wrapper firmly, similar to a burrito, and place the dumpling seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the dumplings with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and crisp. Avoid overbaking to preserve their delicate texture.
8. Transfer the dumplings to a cooling rack. After a few minutes, serve with your preferred dipping sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with finely shredded tofu or a mix of vegetables such as cabbage and shiitake mushrooms.
• If your children dislike chives, replace them with milder green onions or finely chopped spinach.
• Create a sweet, sour, and salty dipping sauce by mixing honey with soy sauce and a squeeze of lime.
• Save time by using pre-cooked shrimp or store-bought shredded carrots.
• Prevent the rice sheets from sticking or tearing by handling them individually and briefly moistening them with a cloth.
• Get the whole family involved in making these dumplings! Even the little ones can have fun rolling and dipping, making dinner a delightful family activity.