How to Make Chinese Dumplings From Scratch

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making delicious Chinese dumplings from scratch. While it may seem time-consuming, the taste of homemade dumplings is unmatched. Follow these steps to create juicy, flavorful dumplings that will impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Wrapper

1. Gather Your Ingredients

   • 400 grams of dumpling flour (or bread flour)
   • 1/2 tsp of salt
   • 210 grams of room temperature water

2. Mix the Dough

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the dumpling flour and salt.
   • Gradually add the room temperature water while stirring with chopsticks, until the mixture forms a dough.

3. Knead the Dough

   • Knead the dough for 5-6 minutes until it is smooth.
   • Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes.

4. Second Knead

   • After resting, knead the dough again for another 5 minutes.
   • Cover it with a damp towel and let it sit for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Filling

1. Gather Your Ingredients

   • 350 grams of ground pork
   • 200 grams of Chinese celery (or regular celery)
   • 1/2 cup of diced scallion
   • 1.5 tbsp of soy sauce
   • 1.5 tsp of oyster sauce
   • Garlic ginger puree (blend 3 slices of ginger, 2 cloves of garlic, and 2 tbsp of water)
   • 1 tbsp of vegetable oil
   • 1/2 tsp of salt
   • 1 egg

2. Mix the Filling

   • In a bowl, combine all the filling ingredients.
   • Stir in one direction for 6-8 minutes to develop the texture.
   • Set the filling aside in the fridge while the dough rests.

Step 3: Shape the Dumpling Wrappers

1. Divide the Dough

   • After resting, sprinkle flour on a cutting board to prevent sticking.
   • Flatten the dough and roll it into a thick piece.
   • Cut it into thick strips of equal thickness.

2. Cut into Pieces

   • Cut each strip into small pieces, each weighing about 11-12 grams.
   • Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

3. Roll the Wrappers

   • Take one piece of dough and flatten it with your hand.
   • Roll it out into a round shape with a thick center and thin edges.

Step 4: Fill and Wrap the Dumplings

1. Add Filling

   • Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of the wrapper.

2. Seal the Dumpling

   • Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the top to seal.
   • Push both sides toward the middle and sew the edges securely.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

1. Pan-Fry the Dumplings

   • Heat a heavy-duty frying pan over medium heat and add oil to coat the bottom.
   • Place the dumplings in the pan and allow them to sizzle for 1-2 minutes.

2. Add Water and Cover

   • Pour in 1/4 cup of water and cover the pan.
   • Cook until the water evaporates, about 5-8 minutes.

3. Check for Crispiness

   • Once the water is gone, check the bottom of the dumplings for a golden brown color.
   • Optionally, flip the dumplings to crisp the other side.

Conclusion

You have successfully made Chinese dumplings from scratch! Enjoy them fresh or freeze any leftovers for later. They can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried as desired. Pair your dumplings with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal. Consider experimenting with different fillings to customize your dumplings further. Happy cooking!