Chinese chicken dumplings, also known as “Jiaozi,” are a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine. These delightful little pockets of savory goodness are not only delicious but also fun to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, learning how to make Chinese chicken dumplings from scratch will bring joy to your taste buds and culinary repertoire. So, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and master the art of crafting these delectable dumplings!
Chinese Chicken Dumplings
Materials
For the Dumpling Filling:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro optional
- 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts optional
For the Dumpling Wrappers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup warm water
Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions optional
Instructions
Making the Dumpling Filling:
- Before you start making the dumpling filling, ensure that all the vegetables are finely chopped, and the ground chicken is at room temperature. This will make the mixing process easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped Napa cabbage, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and white pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding chopped cilantro and water chestnuts to the filling. These additions will give your dumplings a refreshing taste and a delightful crunch.
Making the Dumpling Wrappers:
- To make the dumpling wrappers, place the all-purpose flour in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water while stirring with a chopstick or a fork. Continue adding water until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.
- After resting, roll the dough into a long, thin log. Cut the log into small pieces, about the size of marbles. Flatten each piece with your palm and use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin, circular wrapper. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 to 1/8 inch. Repeat this process with the remaining dough pieces.
Folding the Dumplings:
- Take one dumpling wrapper and place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water to help with the sealing process. Fold the wrapper in half, forming a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal the dumpling. You can also use the "pleating" technique to create a more decorative edge by folding and pinching the wrapper along the edge.
- Continue folding the dumplings until you've used up all the filling and wrappers. It may take a bit of practice to achieve perfectly shaped dumplings, so don't worry if your first few attempts aren't flawless.
Cooking the Chinese Chicken Dumplings:
- To boil the dumplings, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the dumplings in batches (about 8-10 at a time) and gently stir to prevent sticking. Cook the dumplings for 4-6 minutes or until they float to the surface and the filling is fully cooked.
- For a healthier option, you can steam the dumplings. Place the dumplings on a parchment paper-lined bamboo steamer or a heatproof plate, leaving some space between them. Steam the dumplings for about 8-10 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
- For a deliciously crispy texture, you can pan-fry the boiled or steamed dumplings. Heat some vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dumplings, flat side down, and cook until the bottoms turn golden brown and crispy.
Preparing the Dipping Sauce:
- While the dumplings are cooking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. You can also add chopped green onions for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Serving the Chinese Chicken Dumplings:
- Once the dumplings are cooked to perfection, remove them from the pot or skillet and arrange them on a serving platter. They look especially enticing when arranged neatly in rows.
- Serve the hot dumplings with the prepared dipping sauce on the side. Encourage your family and guests to dip the dumplings generously in the sauce before taking a bite. The combination of tender dumpling skin and flavorful chicken filling will surely win their hearts.
Tips for Dumpling Success
Freezing Dumplings: If you have leftover uncooked dumplings, you can freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed container or bag. Frozen dumplings can be boiled or steamed directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the dumpling filling by adding other ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, finely shredded carrots, or bamboo shoots.
Use a Dumpling Maker: If you’re new to folding dumplings, consider using a dumpling maker or press to help you achieve uniform and beautifully shaped dumplings.
Invite Family and Friends: Making Chinese chicken dumplings is more fun when you have friends or family to assist you. Turn dumpling making into a social event and enjoy the process together.
Conclusion
Making Chinese chicken dumplings from scratch is an immensely rewarding experience. From mixing the savory filling to shaping the wrappers and folding the dumplings, every step is a celebration of culinary craftsmanship. Once you’ve mastered the art of crafting these delectable dumplings, you’ll find yourself making them for various occasions, from family dinners to festive gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and dive into the world of Chinese chicken dumplings. The delightful flavors and joy of making these dumplings are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate and your heart. Happy dumpling-making and bon appétit!
