Pork and chive dumplings are a classic Chinese dish that combines the savory flavors of ground pork and aromatic garlic chives, wrapped in a tender dumpling skin. These dumplings are a staple in many Chinese households and are enjoyed boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. This recipe will guide you through making delicious pork and chive dumplings from scratch, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the dumpling filling:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup garlic chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons ginger, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- **1 egg, lightly beaten
For the dumpling wrappers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm water
For cooking and serving:
- Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
- Soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the dumpling filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, garlic chives, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, salt, white pepper, ginger, garlic, and beaten egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture becomes sticky. This helps the filling hold together better.
- Make the dumpling wrappers:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour and warm water. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- After resting, divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and cut into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten with your palm. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Assemble the dumplings:
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to form a half-moon shape, pinching the edges together to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look, or simply press them together firmly.
- Cook the dumplings:
- Boiling: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface and the filling is cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dumplings in a single layer and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Add ¼ cup of water to the skillet, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the filling is cooked through. Remove the lid and cook for another 1-2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms.
- Serve:
- Serve the dumplings hot with dipping sauces such as soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil. Enjoy!
FAQs
1. What are garlic chives? Garlic chives, also known as Chinese chives, have a strong garlic flavor and are commonly used in Chinese cuisine. They have flat, broad leaves and are different from regular chives, which have a milder onion flavor.
2. Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers? Yes, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers to save time. Look for wrappers labeled for boiling or steaming, as they are thicker and hold up better during cooking.
3. How do I store leftover dumplings? Uncooked dumplings can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cooked dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated by steaming or pan-frying.
4. Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use. This can help the flavors meld together even more.
5. What can I serve with pork and chive dumplings? Pork and chive dumplings are often served with dipping sauces such as soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil. They can also be accompanied by side dishes like pickled vegetables, stir-fried greens, or a simple soup.
6. Can I make these dumplings vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the pork with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of both. Adjust the seasonings to taste and follow the same instructions for assembling and cooking the dumplings.
7. Why are my dumplings falling apart during cooking? If your dumplings are falling apart, it could be due to overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Make sure to use a small amount of filling and press the edges firmly to seal. If using store-bought wrappers, ensure they are suitable for boiling or steaming.
Enjoy making and savoring these delicious pork and chive dumplings! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!