• Post by Jhon Abraham
• Mar 05, 2025

These Chinese dumplings (Jiaozi) are a classic dish enjoyed during Lunar New Year and as a comforting meal any time of the year. These dumplings are soft, juicy, and filled with a delicious mixture of meat and vegetables.

Servings: 30 dumplings

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Dumpling Dough (Optional, or use Store-bought Wrappers):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup warm water

• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• ½ pound ground pork (or chicken/shrimp for variation)

• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped

• 2 green onions, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

For Cooking & Serving:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

• ½ cup water (for steaming)

• Black sesame seeds for garnish

• Soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil for dipping

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough (If Making From Scratch)

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Roll out the dough and cut into small pieces. Flatten each piece into a round wrapper.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix well until the filling is evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Take a dumpling wrapper (homemade or store-bought) and place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center.

2. Wet the edges with water and fold the wrapper in half, pinching the edges to seal.

3. Repeat until all dumplings are made.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

Option 1: Boiled Dumplings (Shuǐjiǎo)

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Drop in dumplings and cook for 5-6 minutes, until they float.

Option 2: Pan-Fried Dumplings (Guōtiē or Potstickers)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.

2. Arrange dumplings in a single layer and cook until the bottoms are golden brown.

3. Add ½ cup water, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until fully cooked.

Option 3: Steamed Dumplings (Zhēngjiǎo)

1. Place dumplings in a steamer lined with parchment paper.

2. Steam over boiling water for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle black sesame seeds on top for garnish.

2. Serve with soy sauce, black vinegar, or chili oil for dipping.

Enjoy!