Diabetic-friendly Meat-filled Dumplings

Diabetic-friendly Meat-filled Dumplings Recipe - Traditional Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

These Diabetic-friendly Meat-filled Dumplings are a delicious and healthy option for those looking to enjoy a tasty meal without compromising their dietary needs. Packed with flavor and nutrients, these dumplings are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

History

Dumplings have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. From Chinese potstickers to Polish pierogies, dumplings come in many shapes and flavors. This recipe puts a healthy twist on the traditional dumpling by using lean ground beef and fresh spinach, making it a perfect option for those with diabetes.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 cups water
0.5 lb (227 g) ground round
2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp sherry
2 cups fresh chopped spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
0.25 cup finely minced water chestnut
2 green onions, chopped

How to prepare

Mix flour and water.
Gradually add more water, a teaspoon at a time, until the dough cleans the bowl.
Turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead until smooth.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and set it aside for 20 minutes.
Brown the ground beef and drain off any fat.
Wash and dry fresh spinach, or thaw and dry frozen spinach.
Combine the spinach with the ground beef and remaining ingredients.
Mix well.
Form the dough into a long roll, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cut or break the dough into 1 inch sections.
Using your hands or a large glass, flatten each piece into a circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
Place 1 tbsp of filling in the center of each circle.
Dampen the edge of the circle with a finger dipped in water.
Fold the dough over the filling and press to seal.
Brush a nonstick frying pan with 0.5 tsp of oil.
Place the dumplings in the pan and brown them on each side.
Add enough broth or water to come up to a third of the height of the dumplings.
Cover the pan tightly and steam the dumplings until all the liquid is gone, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Serve the dumplings hot or cold, with sherry or vinegar for dipping.

Variations

Feel free to customize the filling of these dumplings by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the dumplings tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

- Use a nonstick frying pan to brown the dumplings without adding extra oil.

- Steam the dumplings with a small amount of broth or water to keep them moist and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these dumplings with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect dumplings is to seal them tightly and steam them gently to ensure they cook through without becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained. You can also substitute ground pork or chicken for the ground beef.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for these dumplings ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and cook the dumplings.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cooked dumplings on a platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

These dumplings pair well with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam the dumplings for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these dumplings contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying meal option without going overboard on calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these dumplings contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a balanced option for those watching their carb intake.

Fats

With only 5 grams of fat per serving, these dumplings are a low-fat option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Proteins

Each serving of these dumplings provides 15 grams of protein, helping you feel full and satisfied after your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Packed with fresh spinach and water chestnuts, these dumplings are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium.

Alergens

These dumplings contain wheat and soy, so be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, these Diabetic-friendly Meat-filled Dumplings are a nutritious and balanced meal option for those looking to enjoy a tasty dish without compromising their health goals.

Summary

These Diabetic-friendly Meat-filled Dumplings are a delicious and nutritious option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising their dietary needs. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, these dumplings are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her quaint little cottage by the lake. Sarah was always full of surprises, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of something cooking on the stove. Sarah beckoned me over to the kitchen, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She handed me a steaming plate of dumplings, golden brown and fragrant with savory spices.

"Try these," she said with a smile. "They're my special recipe for diabetic-friendly meat-filled dumplings."

I took a bite, and my taste buds were immediately awakened by the flavorful filling and the tender, chewy dough. I couldn't believe that something so delicious could be healthy too.

"Sarah, these are amazing!" I exclaimed. "Where did you learn to make them?"

Sarah chuckled and poured us both a cup of tea. "Oh, it's a long story," she said. "But let me tell you how I came to discover this recipe."

She settled back in her chair, sipping her tea, and began to recount her tale.

Many years ago, when Sarah was a young woman, she had traveled to a distant land in search of adventure. She found herself in a bustling market, surrounded by exotic sights, sounds, and smells. As she wandered through the maze of stalls, she came across a little old lady selling dumplings.

The old lady had a twinkle in her eye and a mischievous smile, just like Sarah's. She beckoned Sarah over and offered her a sample of her dumplings. Sarah took a bite and was instantly hooked.

"These are incredible!" she exclaimed. "How did you come up with this recipe?"

The old lady chuckled and patted Sarah on the hand. "Oh, my dear, I've been making these dumplings for years. They're my own creation, passed down through generations of my family. And best of all, they're perfect for diabetics like you."

Sarah was amazed. She had been struggling to find delicious, healthy recipes that would suit her dietary needs. And here, in the middle of a bustling market, she had stumbled upon a culinary treasure.

The old lady took Sarah under her wing and taught her the secrets of her dumpling recipe. She showed her how to make the savory filling with lean ground meat, fragrant herbs, and flavorful spices. She demonstrated the art of shaping the dough into delicate little pockets, ready to be steamed or fried to perfection.

Sarah spent weeks learning from the old lady, absorbing every bit of wisdom and technique she could. And when it was time for her to leave the distant land and return home, the old lady presented her with a handwritten recipe card, carefully detailing every step of the process.

"Remember, my dear," the old lady said with a wink, "these dumplings are not just food for the body. They're food for the soul too. Share them with those you love, and they will bring you joy and nourishment in equal measure."

And so, Sarah returned home with her newfound treasure, the recipe for diabetic-friendly meat-filled dumplings. She had shared it with me that fateful day in her cottage by the lake, and now I too had the opportunity to pass it on to others.

As I finished recounting Sarah's story, I looked at the plate of dumplings in front of me. They were a testament to the power of food to connect us, to nourish us, and to bring us joy. And as I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would be a cherished part of my culinary repertoire for years to come.

So now, whenever I make these diabetic-friendly meat-filled dumplings, I think of Sarah and the old lady in the distant land. I think of the joy and nourishment they brought into my life, and I am grateful for the culinary treasures that have been passed down through generations. And I am reminded that food is not just sustenance—it is a gift, to be shared and savored with those we love.