Northeastern Chinese Style Canestrelli

Ingredients

In this Northeastern Chinese adaptation of Canestrelli, the traditional Italian flavors are replaced with Northeastern Chinese ingredients and spices. The original sweet and buttery taste of Canestrelli is transformed into a savory and aromatic dish by using minced pork, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce as the main ingredients for the filling. The cooking technique is also modified from baking to steaming, which is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Canestrelli (Piedmont), so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 200g minced pork 200g minced pork
• 2 tablespoons ginger, minced 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and water. Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced pork, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough in half and pinch the edges to seal the dumplings.
5. 5.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a steamer. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, leaving some space between each dumpling to prevent sticking.
6. 6.
   Steam the dumplings for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and the dumpling wrappers are tender.
7. 7.
   Serve the Northeastern Chinese Style Canestrelli hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro, and accompanied by soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced pork — Make sure to use lean minced pork for a healthier option. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can marinate the minced pork with soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before using it in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a teaspoon of chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
• To save time, you can prepare the dumpling wrappers in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of Chinese black vinegar for a tangy dipping sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Northeastern Chinese Style Canestrelli as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a bowl of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a serving platter, making sure to display their golden-brown color and delicate pleats. Serve them with a small dish of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.