Did you know there is more than one way to prepare a dumpling! You can steam them for a soft chewy exterior or pan-fry them for a crispy crunchy bottom! Either way, you can’t go wrong with a dumpling, but there is a divide within the foodie community about which is better! This leads us to….The great dumpling debate! We are going to be talking a little bit more about each method of cooking, but we won’t be picking sides in this debate. We love all dumplings here at the Dumpling School There is no dumpling discrimination happening on our watch!
Steamed Dumplings
Like every dumpling, it starts with the basics: flour and water mixed together to form a smooth dough that is then rolled out and filled with a delectable filling, and finally is shaped. The most traditional filling is pork, however, you can really create a filling with a wide variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, tofu, vegetables, etc. Once the dumplings are formed and crimped shut they can be placed in a steamer basket for roughly 10 to 15 minutes. The steaming process is what creates the shiny-looking soft exterior! Steaming is the traditional way of preparing dumplings and has never gone out of style. Many people around the world are loyal to this method of cooking and prefer it over pan-fried dumplings. Not only because of their soft texture but additionally because they are not greasy which can be easier to digest for some people.
Pan-Fried Dumplings
Pan-fried dumplings start off with the same base ingredients as steamed dumplings. A water flour dough is made, rolled out, and filled. Once filled the dumplings are crimped and ready to be cooked. To pan-fry dumplings you must first heat up a skillet and add oil to it. After a few moments of heating up the oil, you may place your dumplings into the pan. Be mindful of the flame! You don’t want to burn the bottoms of your dumplings. After a few minutes of cooking add water to the skillet and cover your dumplings for about 10 minutes. This creates a crispy bottom but a soft top. Giving you the best of both worlds with each bite. This method of cooking dumplings is enjoyed by people who can appreciate the added texture.
Attend a Dumpling Party at the Dumpling school!
Settle the dumpling debate by attending a dumpling party at The Dumpling School. Our expert chefs can show you how to prepare both steamed and pan-fried dumplings and we will let you be the judge of which is better! Who knows you might be like us and decide you like them both equally. Find out at our next Dumpling Party, book a party with us today!
