Delicious Jiaozi (Boiled Dumplings) Recipe
Welcome to the world of Jiaozi, a delightful type of Chinese dumpling that is loved by many! These tasty treats are filled with a variety of ingredients and then boiled for the perfect texture. Jiaozi holds a special place in Chinese cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations like the Chinese New Year. The tradition of making dumplings together symbolizes family unity and prosperity. This recipe is not only delicious but also fun to make, which is why it is popular among food lovers of all ages!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Water | 3/4 cup |
| Ground pork or chicken | 1 cup |
| Green onions (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Cabbage (finely chopped) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
If you want to switch things up, you can use tofu instead of meat for a vegetarian option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with the water until it forms a dough. Knead it for about 5-8 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the ground pork or chicken, green onions, cabbage, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined.
- Roll the Dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into small pieces (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each piece into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
- Fill the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill them!
- Seal the Dumplings: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together tightly to seal. You can crimp the edges for a decorative look.
- Boil the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the dumplings and boil them for about 6-8 minutes, or until they float to the top.
- Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings from the pot. Serve hot with soy sauce or vinegar for dipping!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Fats | 4g | 6% |
| Sodium | 300mg | 13% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different meats or vegetables for the filling!
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure not to overboil the dumplings; keep an eye on them to ensure they stay tender.
- Use Flour: Dust the dumplings with flour to prevent them from sticking together while preparing or cooking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Just boil them directly from frozen!
FAQs
What is Jiaozi?
Jiaozi are traditional Chinese dumplings made from a thin dough filled with various ingredients like meat and vegetables, often boiled or steamed.
Can I make Jiaozi vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with tofu or a mix of vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I store leftover Jiaozi?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with Jiaozi?
Jiaozi are often served with soy sauce, vinegar, or spicy oil for dipping. You can also serve them with a side of rice.
Can I bake Jiaozi instead of boiling them?
Yes! You can bake Jiaozi for a crispy texture. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
How can I make the dumpling wrappers thinner?
To make thinner dumpling wrappers, roll the dough out more evenly before cutting them into circles.
Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers?
Yes, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers to save time. Just make sure they’re thick enough to hold the filling!
Why are my dumplings falling apart while boiling?
If your dumplings are falling apart, they may be overfilled or the dough was not sealed tightly. Make sure to press the edges firmly!
What type of meat is best for Jiaozi filling?
Ground pork is a popular choice for Jiaozi, but you can also use chicken, beef, or even shrimp for a unique flavor.
Can Jiaozi be made in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and keep them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
Now that you have this fun and easy Jiaozi (Boiled Dumplings) recipe, gather your friends or family and enjoy making these delicious dumplings together!
