Simple Dumpling Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 05, 2025

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Simple Dumpling Recipe: A Beginner's Guide to Delicious Homemade Dumplings

Making dumplings might seem daunting, but this simple recipe proves it's easier than you think! This recipe focuses on creating a versatile dumpling dough and filling, perfect for beginners and adaptable to your favorite flavors. Let's dive in!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for softer dough)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup finely chopped vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, onions, leeks) – feel free to experiment!
• 1/2 cup finely minced meat (pork, chicken, or beef, or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or lentils) – optional
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger (minced or grated)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic (minced or grated)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Making the Dough:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water: Slowly pour in the warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. If using oil, add it now.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Rest the dough: Form the dough into a ball, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Sauté vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add your chosen vegetables and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add meat (optional): If using meat, add it to the pan and cook until browned.
3. Season and cool: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the filling cool completely before assembling the dumplings.

Assembling the Dumplings:

1. Roll out the dough: Divide the dough into smaller portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle or square, using a rolling pin. Aim for about 3-4 inches in diameter.
2. Add the filling: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
3. Seal the dumplings: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can crimp the edges for a decorative touch, but it's not necessary.

Cooking the Dumplings:

There are several ways to cook dumplings:

• Boiling: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
• Steaming: Place the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer and cook until golden brown on the bottom. Add a splash of water, cover, and cook until the water evaporates and the dumplings are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your delicious homemade dumplings with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, chili oil, or a vinegar-based sauce. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Experiment with fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Try adding different vegetables, meats, or spices.
• Make it ahead: You can make the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the dumplings just before cooking.
• Freeze for later: Cooked or uncooked dumplings can be frozen for later use.

This simple dumpling recipe is a fantastic starting point for your dumpling journey. With a little practice, you'll be creating delicious, homemade dumplings in no time! Remember to share your creations and tag us! Happy cooking!