Macedonian-style Stuffed Dumplings

Ingredients

In this Macedonian adaptation of ba wan, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Macedonian cuisine. The filling is made with a combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and Macedonian spices such as paprika and cumin. The sauce is a tangy tomato-based sauce with a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of Macedonian flavors. These adaptations give the dish a unique Macedonian twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Taiwanese ba wan. We alse have the original recipe for Ba wan, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce: For the sauce:
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons vinegar 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, and salt. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pinching them together.
5. 5.
   Place the stuffed dumplings in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through.
6. 6.
   While the dumplings are steaming, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes (if using). Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Serve the steamed dumplings with the tangy tomato sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
• Paprika — Opt for sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness.
• Tomato sauce — Use a good quality tomato sauce for the best flavor. You can also make your own by blending fresh tomatoes and cooking them down until thickened.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the filling according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of Macedonian-style salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover dumplings can be refrigerated and reheated in a steamer or microwave.
• For a festive touch, garnish the dumplings with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Macedonian-style Stuffed Dumplings as a main course, accompanied by a side of Macedonian salad and a dollop of sour cream. The tangy tomato sauce adds a delightful zing to the dumplings, making them a perfect centerpiece for a Macedonian-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the tangy tomato sauce. The vibrant colors of the filling peeking through the translucent dough will make for an appetizing presentation. Serve with the sauce on the side for dipping.