Dumplings are a delicious combination of thin dough wrappers filled with a savory meat or vegetable mixture. The wrappers are made from flour and warm water, while the filling is flavored with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. They can be boiled for softness, pan-fried for crispiness, or steamed for lightness. Enjoy with a spicy dipping sauce for a flavorful experience.
Ingredients
For Dumpling Dough (Wrappers):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm water
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for softness)
For Meat Filling (Chicken Dumplings):
- 250g ground chicken
- ½ cup finely chopped cabbage
- 2 tbsp chopped spring onions
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black or white pepper
For Vegetarian Filling:
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- ½ cup grated carrots
- ½ cup chopped cabbage
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp chili oil
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)
- ½ tsp minced garlic
- ½ tsp sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Gradually add warm water while stirring.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Dumpling Filling
- In a mixing bowl, add ground meat or vegetables of your choice.
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, spring onions, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the filling becomes sticky and well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Roll Out Dumpling Wrappers
- Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls.
- Roll each ball into a thin round wrapper (about 3 inches in diameter).
- Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Fill & Shape the Dumplings
- Place 1 tbsp filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Wet the edges with a little water.
- Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges together to seal tightly.
- Make pleats on the edges for a traditional look (optional).
Step 5: Cooking Methods for Dumplings
1. Boiled Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Drop the dumplings in and stir gently.
- When dumplings float, add ½ cup cold water and bring to a boil again.
- Repeat this step twice (total cooking time ~6-8 minutes).
- Remove and serve with dipping sauce.
2. Pan-Fried Dumplings
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Place dumplings in the pan and cook until the bottom turns golden brown (~2 minutes).
- Add ¼ cup water, cover, and let steam for 5 minutes.
- Uncover and let the remaining water evaporate for a crispy finish.
3. Steamed Dumplings
- Grease a steamer basket with oil.
- Place dumplings in the basket, ensuring they do not touch.
- Steam for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve with soy sauce or chili oil.
Step 6: Serve the Dumplings
- Arrange the dumplings on a plate and serve with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for extra flavor.
- Enjoy with a side of soup or stir-fried vegetables.
