Recipe: Classic Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Step 1

To make the filling: Coarsely chop the cabbage, and then transfer it to a food processor. Pulse until the cabbage is finely chopped but not puréed. (Alternatively, very finely chop the cabbage and place in a colander. Sprinkle lightly with salt, toss to combine, and let sit for 10 minutes.) Transfer the cabbage to a clean kitchen towel, roll it up, and squeeze to remove excess liquid.

Step 2

Transfer the cabbage to a large bowl. Add the pork, scallions, garlic chives, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil and use your hands to combine; do not overwork or the filling will be tough. If you wish to taste for seasoning, poach or fry a small amount of the filling, and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Step 3

To fill the dumplings: Have a small bowl of water ready. Place a dumpling wrapper in the flat of your hand. Place a scant tablespoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Dip a finger in the water and use it to wet the edges of the wrapper. Fold the dumpling in half to form a half-moon shape, pressing out the air as you seal the dumpling. If desired, use your opposite thumbs to fold a tiny pleat on either side of the dumpling, then press firmly to seal the dumpling closed. Place on a baking sheet. Repeat until all the filling is used, you will have extra wrappers.

Step 4

Boil: Boiling dumplings is the most traditional way to cook them. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and simmer until they float to the surface. Then add about a cup of cold water. When the water returns to a boil, add another cup of cold water. When the dumplings float to the surface again, use a slotted spoon to remove them to a platter.

Step 5

Steam: Pour about 2 inches of water into a wide pot or a wok and bring to a boil. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in a bamboo steamer lined with the extra Napa cabbage leaves or parchment paper. Cover the steamer, place it in the pot (don't let the water touch the dumplings), and steam on medium heat until cooked through, about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Pan-fry: Heat a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl it around. Add enough dumplings for a singler layer but leave enough space so that they do not touch. Add 1/4 cup of water (be careful, as it will splatter!) and immediately cover the pan. Cook on medium heat for 3 minutes, then uncover and continue to cook until all the water has evaporated and the bottoms are browned and crispy.

Step 7

To make the dipping sauce: While the dumplings are boiling, steaming, or frying, combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve the dumplings hot, with the sauce for dipping.