Pork and Chive Dumplings

Imagine biting into a warm, golden pork and chive dumpling, with its enticing aroma of ginger and garlic wafting through the air.

These delightful parcels are surprisingly simple to make and offer a cozy, comforting experience that’s hard to resist.

As the ingredients meld together, the transformation from raw to wonderfully savory dumplings is magical.

Let’s bring this delicious Chinese appetizer to life in your kitchen!

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Large mixing bowl
• 1 Rolling pin
• 1 Dumpling steamer or large pot
• 1 Frying pan
• 1 Measuring spoon set

Ingredients

• 250 grams ground pork
• 100 grams chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 pack dumpling wrappers
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Pork and Chive Dumplings, follow this timeline:

1. Reading & Gathering Ingredients (10 minutes):
   • Spend approximately 10 minutes reading through the recipe and gathering all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Preparation (30 minutes):
   • 0:00-0:05: Chop the chives and mince the ginger and garlic.
   • 0:05-0:10: Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper.
   • 0:10-0:20: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chives, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly.
   • 0:20-0:30: Begin filling and sealing the dumplings. Place a wrapper on a clean surface, spoon 1 teaspoon of filling into the center, wet the edges, fold over, and pleat to seal. Repeat for all wrappers.
3. Resting Time (10 minutes):
   • 0:30-0:40: Allow the dumplings to rest for 10 minutes. During this time, clean up any prep area and set up your cooking station. Gather the frying pan and measure 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Cooking (10 minutes):
   • 0:40-0:42: Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
   • 0:42-0:45: Arrange dumplings in the pan, ensuring they aren’t touching. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
   • 0:45-0:52: Add 1/4 cup of water and cover the pan with a lid. Steam the dumplings for 5-7 minutes.
   • 0:52-0:55: Remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate. Transfer the cooked dumplings to a serving plate.
5. Serving & Cleanup (5 minutes):
   • 0:55-1:00: Serve the dumplings hot with your choice of dipping sauces. Clean any remaining cookware and utensils.

Note: Adjust the timeline if you find yourself needing a bit more or less time for certain tasks.

Recipe Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chives, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.

Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface and spoon about 1 teaspoon of the filling into the center.

Wet the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it over, and pleat the edges to seal the dumpling.

Repeat the filling and sealing with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Let the dumplings rest for 10 minutes.

In a frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the dumplings to the pan, ensuring they aren’t touching each other.

Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.

Pour in 1/4 cup of water and cover the pan with a lid to steam the dumplings for 5-7 minutes.

Remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate, then serve the dumplings hot.

Serving Tips

• Soy Sauce and Vinegar Dipping Sauce: A classic combination that enhances the savory flavors of the dumplings.
• Chili Oil: Adds a spicy kick to balance the rich and savory pork filling.
• Steamed Rice: A simple side that complements the dumplings and makes for a more filling meal.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly cooked vegetables like bok choy or broccoli add a fresh and healthy contrast.
• Hot and Sour Soup: This tangy and spicy soup pairs well with the dumplings, creating a satisfying meal.

Storage

To store pork and chive dumplings, place them in an airtight container.

Separate layers with parchment paper.

Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months.

Freezing

To freeze pork and chive dumplings, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Once frozen, transfer to a sealed bag, ensuring no air remains, for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat pork and chive dumplings, steam them for 5-7 minutes.

Alternatively, pan-fry with a bit of oil until heated through.

Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

Pork and chive dumplings are a delightful appetizer that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your table.

With a perfect blend of savory pork, aromatic chives, and flavorful seasonings, these dumplings are sure to impress your guests.

In preparation, make sure your filling is well-mixed and free of excess moisture to prevent breakage during cooking.

Sealing the wrappers without any air pockets is essential for achieving perfect dumplings.

Once cooked, serve them hot with a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce or chili oil to enhance their delicious flavors.

These dumplings not only make a great appetizer but can also be enjoyed as a main course or snack.

They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these pork and chive dumplings are a must-try recipe for all dumpling lovers.

Enjoy the delightful taste and texture of homemade dumplings with friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?

You can substitute ground pork with chicken, turkey, or beef. Make certain the meat is finely ground for even cooking. Adjust seasoning slightly, especially salt and spices, to complement the new meat choice. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!

What Are Some Alternative Fillings for Dumplings?

You can try fillings like shrimp with cabbage, chicken with mushrooms, or beef with scallions. Use 250 grams of meat, finely chop the vegetables, and season with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and your preferred spices.

How Can I Make My Own Dumpling Wrappers From Scratch?

Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3/4 cup water. Knead until smooth, rest for 30 minutes covered. Roll dough into a log, slice into pieces, then roll each into a thin circle. Use immediately or store refrigerated.

Can I Freeze the Dumplings Before Cooking Them?

Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Arrange them on a tray without touching, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag. This prevents sticking and preserves texture. Cook them straight from the freezer without thawing.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Dumplings?

You’ll want to avoid overfilling, which can cause breaks. Don’t let wrappers dry out—they’ll crack. Seal tightly to prevent bursting. Use cold water for dough; warm makes it sticky. Adjust seasoning by tasting the filling first.