Chinese dumplings, known as jiaozi, are a popular dish throughout the year, especially during Chinese New Year. While making dumplings can seem daunting, this recipe breaks it down into easy-to-follow steps. The dough is made from all-purpose flour and water, kneaded and divided into pieces, then rolled into thin wrappers. The filling is made from ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, and seasonings, then spooned onto the wrappers and sealed. The dumplings are boiled in water for 4-5 minutes until cooked and served with a simple dipping sauce. Customize the filling as desired for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Chinese Dumplings: A Dumpling Recipe to Satisfy Any Craving

Introduction

Chinese dumplings, also known as jiaozi, have been a staple food in China for centuries. They are a popular dish during Chinese New Year, but delicious enough to be enjoyed year-round. With so many variations, making dumplings can seem intimidating at first, but with this step-by-step guide and recipe, anyone can create delicious Chinese dumplings.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water (plus extra, as needed)

For the filling:

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

For dipping sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Instructions

Step 1: Making the dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and 1/2 cup of water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. If the dough is too dry, add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
3. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. After 30 minutes, knead the dough again and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece of dough into a long snake, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
7. Cut the snake into small pieces, about 1/2 inch each.
8. Roll each small piece into a flat, round wrapper using a rolling pin. Make sure the edges are thinner than the center.
9. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces, covering the wrappers with a damp cloth to prevent drying.

Step 2: Making the filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, sugar, and black pepper.
2. Using your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined. If desired, add chopped cilantro.
3. Cover the filling and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assembling the dumplings

1. Spoon a small amount of filling (about 1 teaspoon) onto the center of each wrapper.
2. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water.
3. Pinch the edges together in the center to seal the filling inside.
4. You can leave the dumplings as is, or pleat them for a fancier appearance.
5. Repeat until all the filling or wrappers are used up.

Step 4: Cooking the dumplings

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the dumplings in small batches, stirring gently so they don’t stick together.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface and the filling is fully cooked.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a serving plate.

Step 5: Making the dipping sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Conclusion

These Chinese dumplings are a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. With this easy-to-follow recipe, anyone can create dumplings at home. Customize the filling as desired, and don’t forget to make the delicious dipping sauce to enhance the flavors of the dumplings.