Dumplings

Dumplings are a versatile dish enjoyed in many cuisines around the world. Here's a simple recipe for making classic dumplings filled with ground meat and vegetables, along with a basic dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

For the Dumplings:

• Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 tsp salt

• Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground pork (or chicken, beef, or tofu)
  • 1 cup finely chopped vegetables (cabbage, carrots, green onions, or mushrooms)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili oil (optional)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the boiling water, stirring with a fork until it starts to come together.
• Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a bowl, mix the ground meat, chopped vegetables, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.

3. Shape the Dumplings:

• Roll the rested dough into a log and cut it into small pieces (about 1-inch each). Roll each piece into a circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
• Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal. You can also pleat the edges for a decorative touch.

4. Cook the Dumplings:

• You can choose to steam, boil, or pan-fry the dumplings:
  • Steaming: Place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  • Boiling: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook until they float to the top (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Pan-frying: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the skillet and cook until the bottoms are golden brown. Add a splash of water, cover, and let steam for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through.

5. Make the Dipping Sauce:

• In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil (if using). Garnish with chopped green onions.

6. Serve:

• Serve the dumplings hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade dumplings!