Ginger-Pork Dumplings

Ginger-Pork Dumplings Recipe from Northeast Asia

Region / culture: Asia, China, Northeast Asia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger-Pork Dumplings are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. These dumplings are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground pork, ginger, scallions, and soy sauce, all wrapped in a thin and delicate dough. Whether you are looking for a tasty appetizer or a satisfying main course, these dumplings are sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Dumplings have a long history in Chinese cuisine, with various types of dumplings being enjoyed for centuries. Ginger-Pork Dumplings are a popular variation that combines the bold flavors of ginger and pork in a convenient and easy-to-eat package. This recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a favorite in many households.

Ingredients

1.75 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for dusting
1 (2-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger
1 cup light soy sauce
1 bunch thinly sliced scallions
0.75 lb (340 g) ground pork (from the shoulder only; not lean)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, mix flour and half a cup of lukewarm water until the dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until all the lumps have been removed.
Wrap the dough in plastic and let it rest at room temperature for 10 - 12 minutes.
Finely chop half of the ginger and cut the other half into small one-inch sticks. Add 0.5 cup of soy sauce to the longer ginger sticks.
In a fresh bowl, combine the chopped scallions, pork, finely chopped ginger, and the remaining 0.5 cup of soy sauce. Mix well and refrigerate.
Roll out the dough into a sheet that is 26 inches long and less than 0.13 of an inch thick. Cut out 24 round shapes.
Place 2 tsp of the pork mixture onto each dumpling. Pinch the edges to seal.
Boil the dumplings for 6 - 8 minutes. Serve them warm over white rice, or with any side dish, appetizer, or main dish.

Variations

Substitute ground chicken or turkey for the pork for a lighter option.
Add chopped vegetables such as cabbage or carrots to the pork mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different dipping sauces such as chili oil or black vinegar for a unique twist.

Notes

You can use the packaged dumpling wrappers just prior to making the ginger-pork mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the ginger to ensure that it distributes evenly throughout the pork mixture.

- Use ground pork from the shoulder for the best flavor and texture.

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

- Boil the dumplings gently to prevent them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ginger-Pork Dumplings with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling is the preferred cooking technique for Ginger-Pork Dumplings, as it ensures that the dumplings cook evenly and retain their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have ground pork, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or beef as a substitute. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pork mixture and dough ahead of time and assemble the dumplings just before cooking. Store the assembled dumplings in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cooked dumplings on a platter and garnish with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ginger-Pork Dumplings pair well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ginger-Pork Dumplings contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ginger-Pork Dumplings contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ginger-Pork Dumplings contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ginger-Pork Dumplings contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ginger-Pork Dumplings are a good source of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Ginger-Pork Dumplings are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.

Summary

Ginger-Pork Dumplings are a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful filling of ground pork, ginger, and scallions wrapped in a delicate dough, these dumplings are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or snack for a tasty and memorable meal.

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 Mei Ling in her bustling kitchen in Chinatown. Mei Ling was a master in the art of Chinese cooking, and I always marveled at her skills. As we chatted and sipped on cups of fragrant tea, she suddenly pulled out a small, tattered notebook from a drawer and handed it to me.

"Here, my dear friend," she said with a warm smile. "This is a recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations. It's for ginger-pork dumplings, a dish that never fails to bring joy and comfort to those who taste it."

I eagerly took the notebook from her hands and flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes widening at the detailed instructions and intricate list of ingredients. The recipe seemed complex, with a long list of steps and unfamiliar ingredients, but Mei Ling reassured me that with practice and patience, I would soon master it.

Over the next few weeks, I poured over the recipe, studying each step carefully and gathering the necessary ingredients from the local market. I spent hours in my own kitchen, kneading the dough, mincing the ginger, and mixing the pork with a careful hand. The scent of garlic and soy sauce filled the air, and I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment with each batch of dumplings I made.

I invited friends and family over to taste my creations, and their eyes widened in delight as they bit into the juicy, flavorful dumplings. The ginger added a subtle warmth to the dish, while the pork melted in their mouths. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, and I beamed with satisfaction as they praised my cooking skills.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking the ingredients and experimenting with different cooking techniques. I added a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick, and a sprinkle of green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Each time I made the dumplings, I felt a connection to Mei Ling and her family, grateful for the gift of this cherished recipe.

One day, as I was preparing a batch of ginger-pork dumplings for a family gathering, my granddaughter peeked into the kitchen, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"Grandma, what are you making?" she asked, her voice tinged with excitement.

I smiled and beckoned her closer, handing her a piece of dough to roll out. As we worked together, shaping the dumplings with nimble fingers, I told her the story of how I had learned the recipe from Mei Ling, and how it had become a beloved tradition in our family.

"Grandma, can you teach me how to make these dumplings too?" she asked, her eyes shining with determination.

I chuckled and ruffled her hair affectionately. "Of course, my dear. Cooking is a gift that we pass down through the generations, and I would be honored to teach you the art of making ginger-pork dumplings."

And so, as the sun began to set and the aroma of the dumplings filled the air, I taught my granddaughter the intricate steps of the recipe, guiding her with a patient hand and a loving heart. Together, we created a batch of dumplings that rivaled even the best chefs in Chinatown, and as we sat down to enjoy our meal, I knew that this recipe would continue to be a source of joy and connection for years to come.

As I watched my granddaughter savor each bite of the ginger-pork dumplings, a sense of contentment washed over me. The recipe had brought us together, bridging the gap between generations and preserving the traditions of the past. And as the stars twinkled in the night sky, I knew that this cherished dish would always hold a special place in our hearts, a reminder of the love and laughter shared in the kitchen, and the bond that connected us through the magic of food.