Plump Shrimp Dumplings
How to Make Delicious Shrimp Dumplings with Whole Shrimp Inside
Experience the satisfyingly chewy texture of the dumpling wrappers combined with the delightful, firm bite of whole shrimp. These dumplings are bursting with flavor and are a joy to make and eat!
Dumpling Filling Ingredients
- 20 large shrimp
- 300g ground pork (pork belly or shoulder with some fat is ideal)
- 1/4 bunch chives (rinsed and finely chopped)
- 2 stalks scallions (finely chopped; separating white and green parts can be useful)
Filling Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like mirin)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of minced ginger (or ginger powder)
Shrimp Marinade
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like mirin)
Dipping Sauce Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- Minced garlic to taste
- Chili powder to taste (for extra spice and color)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like mirin)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of minced ginger (or ginger powder)
Shrimp Marinade
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like mirin)
Dipping Sauce Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- Minced garlic to taste
- Chili powder to taste (for extra spice and color)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- Minced garlic to taste
- Chili powder to taste (for extra spice and color)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the 20 plump shrimp. Clean them thoroughly, then gently toss them with a pinch of salt, a pinch of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of cooking wine. This marination helps to remove any fishy odor and enhances their flavor.
Step 2
Next, prepare the aromatics for the filling. Finely chop the rinsed chives. Finely chop the scallions, keeping the white and green parts separate if you prefer. The white parts offer a pungent aroma, while the green parts add freshness and color.
Step 3
Prepare 300g of ground pork. Using pork with a moderate amount of fat, such as pork belly or shoulder, will result in a juicier and more flavorful filling. If using pre-ground pork, ensure it is fresh.
Step 4
Now, let’s season the filling. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped chives, and chopped scallions. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cooking wine, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 3 tablespoons of cooking oil. The addition of cooking oil helps to keep the filling moist.
Step 5
Add a pinch of black pepper and a pinch of minced ginger (or ginger powder). Mix everything thoroughly by hand for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture becomes cohesive and slightly sticky. This ensures the filling is well-seasoned and has a good texture.
Step 6
We’re making the dumpling wrappers from scratch! In a bowl, combine 200g of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add about 1/4 cup (40-50ml) of lukewarm water while mixing until a dough forms. Once it comes together, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This resting period makes the dough more pliable and easier to roll.
Step 7
After resting, take the dough out and knead it lightly. Shape it into a long, cylindrical log. This will make it easier to cut the dough into uniform pieces for the wrappers.
Step 8
Cut the log into pieces of approximately 1.5cm thickness. These dough pieces will be the foundation for your dumpling wrappers.
Step 9
Lightly dust a piece of dough with flour. Press it flat with your palm, then use a rolling pin to roll it out into a thin, round wrapper. Aim for the edges to be slightly thinner than the center for easier pleating. Place the finished wrappers on a tray, ensuring they don’t stick together.
Step 10
All the preparation is now complete! It’s time for the fun part: assembling the dumplings. Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Top the filling with one marinated whole shrimp. The whole shrimp is the star of these dumplings!
Step 11
Lightly moisten the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper in half to create a half-moon shape. Starting from one side, carefully pleat and press the edges firmly to seal the dumpling, ensuring the shrimp doesn’t escape. Beautiful pleats make for attractive dumplings.
Step 12
Fill a pot with plenty of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Prepare your steamer. Lining the steamer basket with a damp cheesecloth or kitchen towel can prevent the dumplings from sticking. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the steamer basket.
Step 13
Once the water is boiling, arrange the dumplings in the prepared steamer basket, leaving some space between them. Cover the steamer tightly with its lid.
Step 14
Steam the dumplings over high heat for about 10 minutes. They are ready when they appear plump and slightly translucent. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and let them sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the filling.
Step 15
While the dumplings are steaming, let’s make the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of chili powder. Whisk well. You can add minced garlic or more chili powder to adjust the flavor to your preference.
Step 16
Carefully remove the steamed dumplings and serve them with the prepared dipping sauce. Enjoy the delightful combination of the firm, succulent shrimp, the savory pork filling, and the chewy dumpling wrapper! They are best enjoyed hot.
Step 17
These whole shrimp dumplings are a special treat that highlights the fresh flavors of the ingredients. Making delicious dumplings at home is easier than you think, so gather your family and enjoy a fun cooking experience together!
