Homemade dumplings are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer. This recipe offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, with a savory filling wrapped in a tender dough. You can customize the filling to your taste, using vegetables, meats, or even a combination of both. Dumplings are a fun and interactive meal to make with family and friends, allowing everyone to participate in the preparation process. Whether you steam, boil, or pan-fry them, these dumplings are sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 pound ground pork or chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add warm water while stirring until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the ground pork or chicken, cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll the Dough:
- After resting, divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball into a thin circle, approximately 3 inches in diameter.
- Assemble the Dumplings:
- Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
- Pinch the edges to seal, pleating as desired.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- To Boil: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook until they float to the top, about 4-5 minutes.
- To Steam: Arrange dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam for 10-12 minutes.
- To Pan-Fry: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings, flat side down, and cook until the bottoms are golden brown. Add 1/4 cup of water, cover, and steam until the water evaporates and the dumplings are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the dumplings hot with soy sauce, vinegar, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as shrimp, mushrooms, or tofu, to suit your taste!
