Celery dumplings—a comforting classic often overlooked in favor of their potato-based cousins. But these unassuming little pockets of flavor deserve a place of honor on any menu. Imagine tender, fluffy dumplings, bursting with the subtle earthiness of celery and seasoned perfectly with herbs and spices. The satisfying chew of the dough perfectly complements the savory filling, creating a dish that’s both simple and surprisingly elegant. They're perfect as a hearty side dish or even a light meal on their own.
This recipe simplifies the process, making celery dumplings accessible even to beginner cooks. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparation times; our guide prioritizes ease and delicious results. Ready to create these flavorful delights? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough and Filling
- Mix 100g flour and 60g water (60% hydration). Stir until all flour is in flakes, then knead until slightly smooth. Cover and let rest for 1 hour.
- Blanch celery in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately cool in cold water. Drain, chop into strips, then finely chop. Chop shrimp and fresh ginger finely. Chop carrots into small bits.
Step 2. Season and Combine the Filling
- Add salt, white pepper, and soy sauce to the pork. Heat Sichuan pepper oil (or substitute) until lightly smoking, pour over minced ginger. Mix ginger oil into pork. Add carrots and shrimp. Squeeze excess water from celery, add celery water to pork, stir vigorously. Add squeezed celery and stir well. Finally, add 1 egg and mix thoroughly.
Step 3. Assemble the Dumplings
- Roll the rested dough into a long rope. Cut into even pieces (about 12g each). Prevent dough pieces from sticking together. Roll out each piece into a wrapper (slightly thicker in the center, thinner at edges). Add a heaping spoonful of filling and wrap.
Step 4. Cook the Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add dumplings, stir gently to prevent sticking. Keep heat high initially. After the first boil, lower heat to medium and add 1/3 cup water. Repeat with 1/2 cup water, then 1 cup water, each time after it boils. Dumplings are usually cooked after the third boil.
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- Cut the dough pieces evenly for even cooking and beautiful dumplings.
- Aim for 12g dough pieces for the right wrapper size.
- Prevent dough pieces from sticking together by spacing them out or dusting with flour. Cover the dough with a cloth to prevent drying out. Sprinkle flour on the plate to prevent sticking.
- When rolling the wrappers, apply more pressure from the edges towards the center to prevent tearing.
- Pinch the edges of the dumplings tightly to prevent filling from leaking out.
- Use a smooth-edged spoon to avoid tearing the dumplings while cooking.
- For leftover dumplings, freeze them on a plate until firm, then transfer to a bag for storage.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the celery?
Yes! Try using finely chopped carrots, parsnips, or a combination of root vegetables for a similar flavor profile.
2. What if my dumplings fall apart while cooking?
Make sure your dough isn't too wet. Add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it forms a smooth, firm dough that doesn't stick to your hands. Also ensure they are gently placed in the boiling water to avoid breaking them.
With a little practice, these celery dumplings will become a staple in your kitchen. Their versatility makes them a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, or a satisfying meal on their own. Enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary efforts!