Dumplings are a beloved dish across many cultures, offering a perfect balance of soft dough and flavorful fillings. Whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, homemade dumplings are a rewarding dish to make. Here are two classic recipes that showcase the beauty of homemade dumplings: Chinese-style pork dumplings and potato-filled pierogi.
1. Chinese Pork Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Chinese dumplings, or jiaozi, are a staple in Chinese cuisine, often enjoyed during celebrations like the Lunar New Year. These dumplings have a juicy, flavorful filling wrapped in a thin dough, and they can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup warm water
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Making the Filling:
- In a large bowl, mix ground pork, cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Assembling the Dumplings:
- Roll out the dough into a log and cut into small, equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle.
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges to seal. You can pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
Cooking the Dumplings:
- To Boil: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook dumplings for about 5 minutes until they float.
- To Steam: Place dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper and steam for 10 minutes.
- To Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a skillet, add dumplings, and fry until golden brown on one side. Add a small amount of water, cover, and steam until cooked through.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.
2. Classic Potato and Cheese Pierogi
Pierogi are traditional Eastern European dumplings filled with mashed potatoes and cheese. They are soft, comforting, and can be boiled or pan-fried for a crispy texture.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup warm water
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add sour cream, egg, and water, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Making the Filling:
- Mash the boiled potatoes and mix in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Pierogi:
- Roll out the dough and cut circles using a cup or cookie cutter.
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center, fold the dough over, and seal the edges.
Cooking the Pierogi:
- To Boil: Cook in boiling water until they float (about 3-4 minutes).
- To Pan-Fry: After boiling, fry in butter until golden brown.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with sour cream and caramelized onions for a traditional touch.
