Imagine the aroma of savory pork mingling with fragrant ginger and garlic as you prepare these delightful steamed dumplings.
This comforting Chinese appetizer is surprisingly easy to make, offering a cozy touch to any meal.
Watch as simple ingredients transform into little parcels of joy, ready to burst with flavor after just a short steam.
Let’s bring this delicious dish to life and delight in the warmth and taste it offers.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 steamer basket
- 1 large pot
- 1 rolling pin
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
Ingredients
- 200 grams ground pork
- 100 grams cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 150 grams all-purpose flour
- 75 milliliters water
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking steamed dumplings, follow this timeline:
- Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
- Read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
- Gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients listed.
- Mixing the Filling (5 minutes)
- Combine ground pork, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Preparing the Dough (10 minutes)
- In another bowl, mix the flour and water to form a smooth dough.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until elastic.
- Resting Time for Dough (10 minutes)
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Use this time to clean your workspace and prepare the steamer basket and pot.
- Rolling and Cutting Dough (10 minutes)
- Roll the dough into a thin sheet using the rolling pin.
- Cut out small circles from the dough using a cutter or cup.
- Assembling Dumplings (15 minutes)
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
- Cover assembled dumplings with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
- Steaming Dumplings (15 minutes)
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot.
- Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Cover and steam the dumplings for 15 minutes.
- Serving (5 minutes)
- Remove dumplings from the steamer and serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Adjust your pace as needed, especially if you’re familiar with the recipe or prefer a more leisurely cooking experience.
Recipe Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour and water to form a smooth dough.
Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until elastic, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
Roll the dough into a thin sheet using the rolling pin.
Cut out small circles from the dough using a cutter or cup.
Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
Bring water to a boil in a large pot and place the steamer basket on top.
Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
Cover and steam the dumplings for 15 minutes.
Serve the dumplings hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Serving Tips
- Soy Sauce and Vinegar Dip: A classic and simple dipping sauce that enhances the savory flavors of the dumplings.
- Chili Oil: Adds a spicy kick to each bite, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Sliced Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle over the dumplings for added texture and a fresh burst of flavor.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside the dumplings for a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Pair with a bowl of this comforting soup to complement the dumplings and create a complete Chinese dining experience.
Storage
To store steamed dumplings, allow them to cool completely.
Then, place them in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat by steaming.
Freezing
To freeze steamed dumplings, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container.
Thaw and steam directly from frozen for ideal texture.
Reheating
To reheat steamed dumplings, use a steamer for 3-5 minutes to maintain moisture.
Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes.
Or pan-fry for a crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
Steamed dumplings are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.
With a simple combination of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, they’re perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Remember to keep your work surface and hands lightly floured to prevent the dough from sticking.
Patience is key when sealing the dumplings to guarantee they hold together during steaming.
Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and dipping sauces to suit your taste.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, steamed dumplings are sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Filling?
Absolutely, substitute pork with chicken, beef, or shrimp. Confirm the meat is finely minced for uniformity. Adjust seasoning to complement the new protein. Experiment with complementary flavors, such as coriander or lemongrass, for innovative culinary results.
How Do I Prevent the Dumplings From Sticking to the Steamer?
To prevent sticking, line the steamer with parchment or cabbage leaves. Guarantee dumplings have adequate spacing for steam circulation. Lightly oil the steamer’s surface or dumpling bases. Avoid overcooking to maintain structural integrity.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With Steamed Dumplings?
You’ll elevate your dumplings by pairing them with soy sauce infused with rice vinegar, chili oil, or hoisin sauce. Experiment with ponzu or a ginger-scallion dip for innovative flavor profiles. Balance acidity, umami, and heat.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance and Refrigerate It?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead. After kneading, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Make sure it returns to room temperature before use, maintaining its elasticity and preventing gluten development hindrance for best texture.
How Can I Ensure the Dumpling Edges Are Sealed Properly?
Confirm dumpling edges seal properly by moistening the perimeter with water before pressing. Pinch firmly to create a tight seal, using pleating techniques for extra security. Experiment with different folding styles to enhance visual appeal and functionality.
Steamed Dumplings
Equipment
- 1 steamer basket
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
Ingredients
- 200 grams ground pork
- 100 grams cabbage finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 150 grams all-purpose flour
- 75 milliliters water
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the flour and water to form a smooth dough.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until elastic, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a thin sheet using the rolling pin.
- Cut out small circles from the dough using a cutter or cup.
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot and place the steamer basket on top.
- Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, ensuring they do not touch.
- Cover and steam the dumplings for 15 minutes.
- Serve the dumplings hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.
