Steamed dumplings, delicate pockets of flavour, offer a comforting and rewarding culinary experience. Whether you crave the classic pork and chive filling or prefer a vegetarian alternative bursting with fresh vegetables, the joy of creating these little parcels of deliciousness is undeniable. Their soft, pillowy texture, coupled with the aromatic steam and a delectable dipping sauce, elevates any meal from simple to special. From family gatherings to quiet evenings in, homemade steamed dumplings are a versatile and satisfying treat.
This simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe demystifies the art of dumpling making, guiding you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. Forget the daunting image of complex culinary techniques – this guide makes creating perfect steamed dumplings accessible to everyone, regardless of experience. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap
- Knife
- Rolling pin or pasta sheeter
- 3½ inch (9cm) circular cutter
- Bamboo steamer
- Pot
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (400g)
- Fine sea salt: 1 tsp (7g)
- Boiling water: ¾ cup (216g)
- Napa cabbage: ¼ head
- Green onions: 1 bunch
- Ground pork (at least 20% fat): 1 lb
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Ginger: 2 inch (5cm) piece
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp (14g)
- Kosher salt: 1.5 tsp (8g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 tsp (5g)
- Hot water: 1 tbsp (12ml)
- Rice vinegar: 1 tbsp (12ml)
- Sesame oil: 1 tsp (4g)
- Black vinegar (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough and Filling
- Measure 3 cups (400g) of all-purpose flour and 1 tsp (7g) of salt into a large bowl. Whisk until evenly incorporated.
- Add ¾ cup (216g) of boiling water and mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Let it rest, wrapped in plastic wrap, for one hour.
- While the dough rests, prepare the filling. Chop ¼ head of Napa cabbage (reserve outer leaves), and season generously with salt. Squeeze out excess liquid (drain half).
- Add thinly sliced green onions, 1 lb of ground pork (at least 20% fat), 3 cloves grated garlic, 2 inch (5cm) grated ginger, 1 tbsp (14g) soy sauce, and 1.5 tsp (8g) kosher salt to the cabbage. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2. Assemble the Dumplings
- Cut the dough into four pieces. Use a rolling pin or pasta sheeter to roll each piece into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick). Cut into 3 inch circles.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Brush water around the edge, fold in half like a taco, and pleat one side to seal.
Step 3. Steam the Dumplings
- Line a bamboo steamer with reserved cabbage leaves. Place dumplings in the steamer basket, ensuring they don't touch. Steam for 7-10 minutes.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve with chili oil (recipe in video description) and a dipping sauce (black vinegar or homemade sauce recipe in video description).
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- Be careful not to burn yourself when handling the boiling water for the dough.
- The fattier the ground pork, the juicier the dumplings.
- Cover unused dough with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Work with one quarter of the dough at a time to prevent drying.
- Cabbage leaves prevent dumplings from sticking to the steamer basket.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What's the best way to prevent my dumpling wrappers from sticking together?
Lightly dust your dumpling wrappers with flour or cornstarch between each layer to prevent sticking. This keeps them separated and easy to work with.
2. How do I know when my dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are ready when they are plump and their wrappers are translucent. You should also see steam escaping from the steamer basket.
Making homemade steamed dumplings is a rewarding experience, offering delicious results and a sense of accomplishment. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with your favorite dipping sauce, and savor the delightful flavors of these perfectly steamed pockets of goodness. Now that you've mastered the art, experiment with different fillings and share your creations with loved ones!