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Homemade Dumplings with Flavorful Filling

Homemade Dumplings with Flavorful Filling

Homemade Dumplings with Flavorful Filling are tender, delicious pockets of dough filled with a rich, savory mixture of meat or plant-based protein and fresh vegetables. Perfectly seasoned and customizable, these dumplings bring comfort and joy to any meal, whether boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. Ideal for family cooking, meal prep, or impressing guests, they offer a delightful combination of texture and taste with endless variations to suit all dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb ground meat (pork, chicken, beef) or plant-based protein (tofu)
  • 1 cup finely chopped cabbage or napa cabbage
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with about 3/4 cup of water. Mix and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes to develop the right texture for rolling and shaping.
  2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 lb ground meat or chosen plant-based protein with 1 cup finely chopped cabbage, 3 chopped green onions, minced garlic and ginger, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and moist.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the rested dough into small portions. Roll each portion into thin, round wrappers approximately 3 inches in diameter. Aim for thin wrappers that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking.
  4. Fill and Fold the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough wrapper. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal, forming classic half-moon shapes or pleated edges for decoration.
  5. Cook the Dumplings: Choose your cooking method: boil, steam, or pan-fry. For pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet, add dumplings and cook until bottoms are golden brown. Then add a small amount of water, cover, and steam until fully cooked. Each method offers a distinct texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Keep your hands wet while working with the dough to prevent sticking.
  • Do not overfill dumplings to avoid breakage during cooking.
  • Properly rest the dough to ensure easier rolling and elasticity.
  • Seal dumplings tightly with a pinch and a dab of water to prevent opening while cooking.
  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: dumplings, homemade dumplings, Asian appetizer, comfort food, savory filling, pan-fried dumplings, steamed dumplings, gluten-free dumplings, vegetarian dumplings