Chinese Baked Dumplings are a delightful culinary treasure that brings together the rich flavors and textures of traditional Chinese cuisine. These golden, crispy parcels are not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting bite that warms the soul. Originating from various regions in China, dumplings have been a staple in Chinese households for centuries, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. The versatility of Chinese Baked Dumplings allows for a myriad of fillings, from savory meats to vibrant vegetables, making them a favorite among food lovers of all ages.

People adore this dish for its perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, as well as the convenience it offers for both meal prep and entertaining. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these dumplings are sure to impress with their delightful taste and satisfying texture. Join us as we explore the art of making Chinese Baked Dumplings, and discover why they have captured the hearts and palates of so many around the world.

Ingredients:

For the Dumpling Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup boiling water
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1 cup ground pork (or chicken, or tofu for a vegetarian option)
1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Baking:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
Gradually pour in the boiling water while stirring with a fork or chopsticks. Be careful as the water is hot.
Once the mixture starts to come together, use your hands to knead the dough in the bowl until it forms a rough ball.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Preparing the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork (or your chosen protein) with the chopped napa cabbage, green onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), salt, black pepper, white pepper (if using), and cornstarch to the mixture.
Using your hands or a spatula, mix the filling thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. The cornstarch helps bind the filling and absorb excess moisture from the vegetables.
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to handle.

Assembling the Dumplings

After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal portions. Keep one portion covered while you work with the other to prevent it from drying out.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first portion of dough into a long log about 1 inch in diameter.
Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a disc about 3 inches in diameter using a rolling pin. Aim for a slightly thicker edge and a thinner center.
Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each disc.
To seal the dumpling, fold the disc in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets. You can also pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling, placing the assembled dumplings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Dumplings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the dumplings in the skillet, flat side down. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

Conclusion:

Chinese Baked Dumplings: A Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Crispy Treats

Author: Maria
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 dumplings

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious homemade dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork and fresh vegetables, perfect for steaming or pan-frying. A delightful treat for any occasion!

Instructions

Cook the dumplings for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
Carefully add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and cover immediately with a lid. This will create steam to cook the dumplings through.
Let the dumplings steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the dumplings are cooked through.
Remove the lid and let the dumplings cook for an additional 2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms again.
Transfer the dumplings to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables or proteins according to your preference.
These dumplings can also be frozen before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the steaming time.
Serve with soy sauce, chili oil, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes