Perch and Caramelized Onion Dumplings Recipe
This perch and caramelized onion dumplings recipe combines sweet, slow-cooked onions with flaky perch wrapped in delicate wonton wrappers, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Featured on Fish the Dish with host Spencer Watts, these dumplings are boiled and then pan-crisped for a perfect balance of soft and crunchy textures, served with a bright lemon chive sour cream dipping sauce.
The Inspiration
Inspired by classic dumpling techniques found across Asian cuisines, this recipe brings together the comforting richness of caramelized onions and the delicate flavour of fresh perch. Spencer Watts takes a familiar dumpling concept and elevates it with a seafood-forward filling that highlights natural sweetness and depth.
The long, slow caramelization of onions creates a deep, savoury-sweet base that pairs beautifully with the mild, flaky fish. Wrapping the filling in wonton skins allows for a crisp exterior when pan-fried, while still maintaining a tender, juicy centre. The addition of a lemon chive sour cream dipping sauce adds brightness and tang, balancing the richness of the filling and making every bite feel fresh and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 medium Onions, sliced
- 1 Tbsp (15g) Butter
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) Canola oil
- Four 4-5 oz Pieces of perch
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) Canola Oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water
- 24 Wonton wrappers
- Water for boiling
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) + 3 Tbsp (45 ml) of Canola Oil
- 1 cup (250ml) Sour Cream
- 2 Tbsp (30 ml) Chives, diced
- 1 Lemon, juice only
- Olive Oil as needed
Methods
- Heat butter and oil in a large skillet. Add the onions and stir to coat them in oil and butter. Cook over medium high heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and caramelized.
- Place a pot of water on and bring to a boil.
- In a new skillet, heat 15 ml of oil. Season the fish and place into the hot pan, cooking it for approximately 4 minutes per side. Add water to the skillet after you flip it.
- Once it is done, flake the fish apart in the pan, and scrape it into a clean bowl. Add caramelized onions and stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay out the won tons on your cutting board.
- Spoon 1 Tbsp of the perch and onion mixture onto each wonton wrapper. Moisten edge of wrapper with water and fold over, pressing the seams together to seal the dumpling.
- Cook dumplings in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.
- Drizzle a plate with a Tbsp. of oil. When dumplings float to the top of the water they are ready to be removed and placed on the oiled plate.
- Place remaining 3 tablespoons of oil into a skillet. Add dumplings to the hot pan to crisp, turning once, for about 1 minute a side. Remove to plate.
- Mix sour cream, chives, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Spoon over dumplings. Drizzle olive oil over top and serve.
Serving Suggestions
This perch and caramelized onion dumplings recipe is perfect as a shareable appetizer, light dinner, or part of a larger Asian-inspired meal spread. Serve the dumplings warm, either stacked on a platter or arranged individually for a more refined presentation. Spoon a little of the lemon chive sour cream over the top or serve it on the side for dipping, allowing guests to control each bite’s richness and acidity.
For a more complete meal, pair these dumplings with a crisp cucumber salad, steamed greens, or a light miso soup. They also work beautifully alongside grilled seafood or vegetable dishes if serving as part of a multi-course menu. Beverage pairings like chilled white wine, sparkling wine, or light lager enhance the crispy texture and balance the richness of the filling.
Final Thoughts
This perch and caramelized onion dumplings recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something comforting, elegant, and full of flavour. The slow-cooked onions bring natural sweetness, the perch adds delicate flakiness, and the crispy wonton exterior delivers satisfying texture in every bite.
Spencer Watts showcases how approachable dumpling-making can be, turning everyday pantry ingredients into a dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet achievable at home. Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a cozy meal, these dumplings deliver warmth, balance, and a delicious contrast of textures that make them truly memorable.