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Chinese dumplings, or jiaozi, are more than a dish; they are a cultural icon, symbolizing prosperity and togetherness in Chinese cuisine. These little parcels of joy are filled with a mixture of minced meat and finely chopped vegetables, carefully wrapped in a thin piece of dough. They can be cooked in various ways—steamed, boiled, or fried—but all methods produce a tender bite that releases a burst of flavorful juices. Enjoyed during Chinese New Year and other festivals, making dumplings is often a family activity, with each member contributing to the preparation. The resulting meal is not just a delicious treat but also a bonding experience, a time to share stories and laughter.
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- Dumpling wrappers
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Napa cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
Instructions:
- Mix pork, cabbage, onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of filling in each wrapper.
- Wet the edges; fold and pleat to seal.
- Boil water in a pot; steam dumplings for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with soy sauce for dipping.
Enjoy these dumplings as a delicious starter or a main course, each bite a reminder of the rich tapestry of Chinese culinary history.
Dumplings have a history that dates back over a thousand years, originating in China during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Legend has it that they were first created by a physician to warm the body during cold winters. They have since become a staple in Chinese cuisine, enjoyed for their delicious taste and symbolic meaning, especially during the Lunar New Year.