Pork Dumplings

Homemade pork dumplings are a delicious, savory treat that combines juicy pork filling with a delicate wrapper. Perfect for steaming, pan-frying, or boiling, these versatile dumplings are great as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for an authentic experience!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

1 lb ground pork
2 green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Dumplings:

40-50 dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup water (for sealing)

For the Dipping Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp chili oil (optional)
1 tsp honey

Instructions

Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Dumplings:
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pork filling into the center.
- Dip your finger in water and run it around the edge of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to form a crescent shape, pinching the edges together tightly to seal. For a pleated look, fold small pleats along the edge. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cook the Dumplings:Pan-Frying:
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Arrange dumplings in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet and cover. Steam for 5-6 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through. Remove the lid and cook for another minute to crisp up the bottoms.
Steaming:
- Place dumplings in a single layer in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes.
Boiling:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add dumplings in batches and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil (if using), and honey.
Serve:
- Serve the dumplings hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pork Dumplings

Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the dumplings to burst while cooking.
Seal Well: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent leaks during cooking.
Freeze for Later: Arrange uncooked dumplings on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen as needed.
Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped cabbage or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.