Dim Sum Baskets

Introduction

History

Dim Sum Baskets have been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for centuries. Dim sum, which translates to "touch the heart," refers to a variety of small dishes traditionally served in bamboo steamers or small plates. These baskets are a modern twist on traditional dim sum, combining classic flavors with a convenient and easy-to-eat format.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the frozen yeast rolls in advance to ensure they rise properly.

- Make sure to press the centers of the dough well to create a large indentation for the filling.

- Be careful not to overfill the baskets with the stir-fry mixture to prevent them from spilling over during baking.

- Adjust the amount of crushed red chile peppers to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Dim Sum Baskets can be served as an appetizer or snack with a side of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Thaw and let the frozen yeast rolls rise at room temperature before pressing them into muffin tins.

- Stir-fry the shallots and tofu until heated through before adding the remaining ingredients.

- Bake the filled baskets at 350°F (177°C) until the dough is cooked through and golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil or sesame oil instead of soybean oil.

- Replace water chestnuts with bamboo shoots or diced carrots.

- Swap spinach with kale or bok choy for a different green vegetable.

Make Ahead Tips

Dim Sum Baskets can be assembled and filled in advance, then baked just before serving. Store the filled baskets in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dim Sum Baskets on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant presentation. Arrange them in a bamboo steamer for a traditional touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Dim Sum Baskets pair well with green tea, jasmine tea, or a light lager beer. They also complement other dim sum dishes such as dumplings, spring rolls, and bao buns.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Dim Sum Baskets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Dim Sum Baskets contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Dim Sum Baskets contains approximately 24 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Dim Sum Baskets contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Dim Sum Baskets contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Dim Sum Baskets are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Dim Sum Baskets contain soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Dim Sum Baskets are a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a snack or appetizer.

Summary

Dim Sum Baskets are a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of Chinese cuisine in a convenient and easy-to-eat format. With a crispy dough exterior and a savory tofu and vegetable filling, these bite-sized baskets are sure to impress your guests at any gathering. Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a dim sum feast.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Dim Sum Baskets. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my good friend Mei-Ling in Chinatown. Mei-Ling was a talented cook and she had invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma of steamed dumplings, fried wontons, and other delicious Chinese dishes.

Mei-Ling greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a cup of fragrant jasmine tea. As we sat at her kitchen table, she started to tell me about the recipe for Dim Sum Baskets. She explained that dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal made up of small plates of various dishes, typically served with tea. Dim sum is often eaten for breakfast or brunch, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack or light meal at any time of day.

Mei-Ling told me that the recipe for Dim Sum Baskets was one that had been passed down in her family for generations. She learned how to make it from her grandmother, who learned it from her mother, and so on. The recipe was a closely guarded secret, only shared with close family members and trusted friends.

I was fascinated by the story behind the recipe, and I begged Mei-Ling to teach me how to make it. She agreed, but warned me that it was a labor-intensive process that required patience and skill. I was eager to learn, so we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, mixing, and steaming our way to a delicious batch of Dim Sum Baskets.

Mei-Ling showed me how to make the delicate dough for the baskets, rolling it out thin and cutting it into small circles. She demonstrated the art of folding and pleating the dough to create the intricate shapes of the baskets. She taught me how to make the filling, a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and seasonings.

As we worked together, Mei-Ling shared stories of her childhood in China, where dim sum was a regular part of family gatherings and special occasions. She told me about the traditions and customs surrounding dim sum, such as the importance of sharing dishes and the etiquette of pouring tea for others before yourself.

By the time we finished making the Dim Sum Baskets, I was exhausted but elated. The baskets were beautiful, with their golden brown crusts and savory fillings peeking out from the top. Mei-Ling smiled at me proudly, and we sat down to enjoy our creation with a pot of steaming hot tea.

From that day on, Dim Sum Baskets became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made them for special occasions, family gatherings, and whenever I wanted to impress guests with a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. I shared the recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing on the tradition of dim sum to the next generation.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of Dim Sum Baskets, each one a labor of love and a tribute to Mei-Ling and her family. The recipe has become a cherished part of my culinary heritage, a reminder of the friendships and memories that have enriched my life.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Mei-Ling's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of the Dim Sum Baskets recipe. It has brought me joy, connection, and a sense of pride in my ability to create something beautiful and delicious with my own two hands.

And so, I will continue to make Dim Sum Baskets for as long as I am able, honoring the tradition and the memories that have shaped me into the cook and the person that I am today. Thank you, Mei-Ling, for sharing your recipe and your stories with me. I will always treasure them, just as I treasure the friendship we share.

Categories

| Chinese Recipes | Healthy Appetizers | Healthy Side Dishes | Tofu Recipes |

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