19 Ancient Chinese Dumplings Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Ancient Chinese dumplings, also known as Jiaozi, have been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. These delicious little pockets of dough filled with various meats, vegetables, and seasonings have become a popular dish all over the world. While the recipe for dumplings may seem complex, it is actually quite simple and can easily be recreated in your own kitchen. In this article, we will delve into the history and culture behind ancient Chinese dumplings and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make your own.
Chinese dumplings, also known as jiaozi, are a staple in Chinese cuisine. They are small packets of dough filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and spices. These little bites are packed with flavor and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. Let's take a look at some of the best Chinese dumpling recipes to add to your cooking repertoire.
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How to make Chinese dumpling wrappers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Water, Salt, Spinach
The key to a delicious Chinese dumpling is the wrapper. Making your own wrappers may seem intimidating, but it's actually quite simple. All you need is flour, water, and a rolling pin. Mix the flour and water together to form a dough, then roll it out into thin circles. Cut out wrappers using a round cookie cutter or the top of a glass. Your homemade dumpling wrappers are now ready to be filled!
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Pan Fried Chinese Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef 85 Lean, Scallions, Fresh Ginger, Sesame
If you prefer a crispy texture, then pan-fried Chinese dumplings are the way to go. These dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and seasonings. The dumplings are pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while still juicy and flavorful on the inside. Serve them with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
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Chinese Pork Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Scallions, Ground Pork, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil
Pork is a common filling for Chinese dumplings, and for good reason. It adds a rich and savory flavor to the dumplings. Chinese pork dumplings can be filled with ground pork, scallions, and cabbage, along with seasonings like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. These dumplings can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, making them a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways.
If you're a fan of Chinese takeout, then you've probably had orange chicken. This popular dish is made with tender pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The chicken is first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and orange juice, then coated in a batter and fried until crispy. The sauce is made with orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and garlic, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Beef and broccoli is another classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with fresh broccoli and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Soup dumplings, also known as xiaolongbao, are a popular street food in China. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of pork and a flavorful broth, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bite. The trick to making soup dumplings is to use gelatin sheets in the filling, which creates a liquid center when cooked. Serve these dumplings with a dipping sauce made from black vinegar and shredded ginger for an authentic Chinese experience.
No Chinese meal is complete without a side of fried rice. This dish is made with day-old rice, which is stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a variety of seasonings. The key to perfect fried rice is using cold rice, as it prevents the grains from sticking together. You can also add in your choice of protein, such as shrimp, chicken, or beef, to make it a complete meal.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you're tired of the same old chicken recipes, give Chinese chicken thighs a try. These chicken thighs are marinated in a sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and hoisin sauce for a sweet and savory flavor. They are then roasted in the oven until tender and juicy. Serve them with a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a delicious and easy dinner.
Many Chinese dumpling recipes come with a savory broth that is served alongside the dumplings. This broth is made with chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil for added flavor. It can also be topped with green onions and cilantro for a fresh and herby taste. Dip your dumplings in the broth for a burst of flavor with each bite.
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Chinese Dumplings From Chinese Soul Food
Main Ingredients: Dumpling Wrappers, Dipping Sauce, Ground Pork, Chinese
For a taste of authentic Chinese soul food, try making dumplings from scratch using the recipe from the cookbook "Chinese Soul Food" by Hsiao-Ching Chou. This recipe uses ground pork, cabbage, and chives in the filling, and the dumplings are boiled and then pan-fried to create a crispy bottom. Serve them with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes for a truly flavorful experience.
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Chinese Beef Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Chicken Stock, Light Soy Sauce, Shaoxing
Beef dumplings are a popular variation of Chinese dumplings. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground beef, green onions, and seasonings like ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. They can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, and are often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and chili oil. These dumplings are a great option for those who prefer a heartier filling.
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Northern Chinese Beef Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Gyoza Wrappers, Chilli Oil, Soy Sauce, Coriander
In Northern China, dumplings are a staple food and often served during holidays and special occasions. Northern Chinese beef dumplings are made with a filling of ground beef, green onions, and spices, and are typically boiled or steamed. These dumplings are larger in size compared to other types of Chinese dumplings, making them a satisfying and filling meal.
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Sui Kow (Chinese Dumpling)
Main Ingredients: Choy Sum, Chicken Stock, Green Onions, Sesame Oil
Sui Kow is a type of Chinese dumpling that is commonly found in Hong Kong and Southern China. These dumplings are made with a filling of ground pork, shrimp, water chestnuts, and mushrooms, giving them a unique and flavorful taste. They are typically steamed and served with a dipping sauce made from black vinegar and soy sauce. Sui Kow is a great option for seafood lovers.
For a healthier take on the classic Chinese dish, try making chicken and broccoli at home. This dish is made with tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli, and a light sauce made from oyster sauce, soy sauce, and garlic. It's a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights, and the addition of fresh ginger gives it a unique and delicious flavor.
Egg drop soup is a popular Chinese soup that is made with chicken broth, beaten eggs, and cornstarch to create a thick and creamy texture. The soup is flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper, giving it a subtle but delicious taste. This soup is perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather.
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Pot Sticker Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Scallions, Soy Sauce, Toasted Sesame Oil
Pot stickers, also known as guotie, are similar to pan-fried dumplings but have a thicker and chewier wrapper. They are filled with a mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and mushrooms and are pan-fried until crispy and golden. The name "pot stickers" comes from the fact that they stick to the pan while cooking. These dumplings are typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic paste.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Fried rice is a staple in Chinese takeout menus, and for good reason. It's a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with your choice of protein and vegetables. Classic pork fried rice is made with char siew (Chinese roasted pork), eggs and a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and bean sprouts. This dish is a must-try for any fried rice lover.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
Egg fried rice is a simple and easy Chinese dish that is perfect for beginners. This dish is made with eggs and cold rice, along with a variety of vegetables and seasonings. The key to perfect egg fried rice is using a hot wok and constantly stirring the rice to prevent it from clumping together. Add in your choice of protein, such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu, to make it a complete meal.
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Chinese Cabbage Pork Dumplings
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Water, Napa Cabbage, Sliced
Cabbage is a popular ingredient in Chinese dumplings, and for good reason. It adds a light and crunchy texture to the filling, making it a delicious addition to any dumpling recipe. Chinese cabbage pork dumplings are filled with a mixture of pork, cabbage, and green onions, along with seasonings like soy sauce, ginger, and rice wine. They can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, and are a great option for those looking for a healthier dumpling option.
The History of Chinese Dumplings
The Origins
The origins of Chinese dumplings can be traced back to the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD). Legend has it that a physician named Zhang Zhongjing, who was also a renowned herbalist, was traveling through a village during a harsh winter. He noticed that many of the villagers were suffering from frostbite in their ears. To help warm them up, he created a recipe for dumplings that were filled with lamb, chili, and herbs, wrapped in dough and boiled. These dumplings not only warmed the villagers but also helped to heal their frostbite.
The Symbolic Meaning
In Chinese culture, dumplings hold great symbolic meaning. Their shape, resembling ancient Chinese currency, symbolizes wealth and prosperity. They are often eaten during the Chinese New Year as it is believed that the more dumplings one eats, the more money they will make in the coming year. Additionally, the act of making dumplings together with family and friends is seen as a way to bring people closer and strengthen relationships.
The Cultural Significance
Ancient Chinese dumplings have also played a significant role in Chinese culture. They are often served during festivals and celebrations, such as the Dragon Boat Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Northern China, dumplings are a popular dish during the winter solstice, symbolizing the end of the harsh winter and the welcoming of the new year.
The Recipe for Chinese Dumplings
Ingredients
To make authentic Chinese dumplings, you will need:
1 pound ground pork
1 cup chopped Chinese cabbage
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 package round dumpling wrappers
Water
Oil for pan-frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, Chinese cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Place a small spoonful of the filling onto a dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water and fold in half, pinching the edges to seal.
Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.
In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Place the dumplings in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown.
Pour water into the pan until it reaches about 1/3 of the way up the dumplings. Cover and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the water has evaporated and the dumplings are cooked through.
Remove from the pan and serve with your choice of dipping sauce.
In Conclusion
From their humble beginnings in the Eastern Han Dynasty to their symbolic and cultural significance in Chinese society, ancient Chinese dumplings have stood the test of time and continue to be a beloved dish around the world. With this recipe, you can recreate these delicious and meaningful dumplings in your own kitchen and experience a taste of Chinese culture. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the art of making and eating authentic Chinese dumplings.
