How to make giant dumpling

Homemade Dumplings: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dumplings from Scratch

Introduction

Making dumplings from scratch is a rewarding experience that allows you to control every detail, from the delicate dough to the flavorful filling. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through creating perfect boiled dumplings, also known as shuǐjiǎo (水餃), starting with the dough and ending with a bowl of steaming goodness.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• All-purpose flour: 300g (約2カップ)

• Water: 150ml (ぬるま湯がベスト)

• A pinch of salt (optional)

For the filling:

• Ground pork: 200g (豚ひき肉)

• Napa cabbage: 100g, finely chopped (白菜)

• Green onion: 2 stalks, minced (ネギ)

• Soy sauce: 2 tbsp (醤油)

• Sesame oil: 1 tbsp (ごま油)

• Ginger: 1 tsp, grated (生姜)

• Salt and pepper: to taste (塩コショウ)

Steps to Make Boiled Dumplings

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, mix the flour and water until it forms a shaggy dough. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

• Combine the ground pork, cabbage, green onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well-combined.

3. Roll and Cut the Dough

• Divide the dough into two pieces. Roll each into a long log about 2 cm thick. Cut into small, equal pieces (約2cmの幅). Roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper with a rolling pin.

4. Fill the Dumplings

• Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges together to seal, pleating as you go for a traditional look.

5. Cook the Dumplings

• Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the pan in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.

• Fry for 2–3 minutes, or until the bottoms turn golden brown.

• Add 1/4 cup of water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid to steam the dumplings. Let cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until the water has evaporated.

• Remove the lid and let the dumplings fry for another 1–2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms.

This method gives you dumplings with a crispy bottom and juicy filling inside—perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce!

6. Serve

•Arrange the pan-fried dumplings on a plate with the crispy side facing up for presentation.

• Serve hot with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil or sesame oil. Add some chopped green onions for extra flavor if desired.

Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy and juicy in every bite!

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

• Resting the dough makes it easier to roll and stretch.

• Use cold water when making the filling to keep it moist.

• Test-cook one dumpling to check the seasoning before making the rest.

Enjoy your homemade dumplings with friends and family for a cozy, satisfying meal!