dumplingsWho couldn't use a little bit of extra luck for 2012? Nearly every culture has a traditional food that's supposed to bring good luck for the New Year, and in China dumplings are said to do the trick. (Apparently they resemble the gold ingots that were once used as Chinese currency.) Chinese New Year isn't until January 23, but dumplings are a perfect, kid-friendly finger food for any New Year's Eve party -- and they're a lot easier to make than you'd expect!

I chose this recipe for Veggie Dumplings for two reasons: First, all your vegetarian guest bases are covered; second, it uses pre-made wonton wrappers (told you it was easy!).

Good Luck Veggie Dumplings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces firm tofu, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 pound shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and finely chopped
  • 8 scallions, white and light green parts only, finely chopped
  • One-quarter of a head Napa cabbage, shredded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 50 wonton wrappers

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the tofu, mushrooms, scallions, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil and ginger. Season with salt and pepper.

  2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat, add the vegetable mixture and cook until tender, about 5 minutes; transfer to a bowl and let cool.

  3. Brush one wonton wrapper with water and place 1 heaping teaspoon filling in the center. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, squeeze out the air and press the edges together to seal, wetting the dough if necessary to make it stick. Pinch together the two corners of the folded edge. Repeat with the remaining wrappers.

  4. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Working in batches, add the dumplings and boil until cooked through, about 3 minutes after the water returns to a boil. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain. Serve with dipping sauces.