Get ready to enjoy a plate of juicy and flavorful Pork and Chive Dumplings, the perfect blend of savory pork, fragrant garlic chives, and bold seasonings wrapped in tender potsticker wrappers. Whether you’re hosting a dumpling party or just craving comfort food, these homemade dumplings are a satisfying treat that’s easier to make than you think.
Watch the Video Tutorial Below!
What Are Pork and Chive Dumplings?
Pork and Chive Dumplings are a classic dish in Chinese cuisine, featuring ground pork and garlic chives seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and other flavorful ingredients. Garlic chives, known for their mild garlicky taste, add a unique twist to the filling. These dumplings can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, offering versatile ways to enjoy them.
Why These Dumplings Are Perfect for Lunar New Year
Dumplings are a symbolic and beloved dish during Lunar New Year, representing prosperity and wealth. Their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots, making them a delicious way to bring wealth and luck to the table. Sharing Pork and Chive Dumplings with family and friends during this festive season is a wonderful way to honor traditions and create lasting memories. Plus, they’re easy to customize and perfect for cooking together as a group activity!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of juicy pork, aromatic garlic chives, and a touch of soy sauce and ginger creates a delicious filling.
- Versatile Cooking Options: You can boil, steam, or pan-fry these dumplings depending on your preference.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the extras for a quick meal later.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or swap in different proteins for variety.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a party appetizer, these dumplings are always a hit.
Ingredients
For the dumplings:
- Ground Pork: The base of the filling, providing a juicy and savory texture.
- Garlic Chives: Adds a mild, garlicky flavor that complements the pork perfectly.
- Garlic and Ginger: Essential aromatics that enhance the flavor and aroma of the dumplings.
- Soy Sauce: Adds salty, umami richness to the filling.
- Sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Oyster Sauce: Deepens the flavor profile with its savory, slightly sweet taste.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic finish to the filling.
- Salt and White Pepper: Enhance the overall seasoning and provide a gentle, peppery heat.
- Potsticker Wrappers: The tender, chewy outer layer that holds the flavorful filling.
For the dipping sauce:
- Chinese Black Vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly smoky flavor to the dipping sauce.
- Soy Sauce: Complements the vinegar with savory umami notes.
- Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the vinegar.
- Chili Sauce: Brings a spicy kick to the dipping sauce.
How to Make Pork and Chive Dumplings
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, garlic chives, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Let the filling marinate for 15 minutes.
Assemble the Dumplings
Place 1-2 teaspoons of filling in the center of a potsticker wrapper. Wet the edge of half the wrapper with water, fold it over, and seal the edges tightly. Make four pleats along the edge for a traditional dumpling shape.
Cook the Dumplings
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook for 4-5 minutes until they float and the filling is cooked through.
Make the Dipping Sauce
Mix Chinese black vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and chili sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the proportions to suit your taste.
Serve
Transfer the cooked dumplings to a plate and serve hot with the dipping sauce.
Storage
Uncooked dumplings can be frozen on a tray for 1 hour, then transferred to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by boiling for 5-6 minutes.
Tips
- Seal Dumplings Properly: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just 1-2 teaspoons of filling to avoid breaking the wrapper.
- Freeze for Convenience: Make a big batch and freeze extras for an easy, ready-to-cook meal anytime.