Cuban-Inspired Dim Sum

Ingredients

While traditional Chinese dim sum is typically steamed or fried, our Cuban-inspired version adds a touch of Cuban flair to the cooking techniques and ingredients. We incorporate Cuban spices and flavors, such as citrus, garlic, and cumin, to infuse the dim sum with a distinct Cuban taste. We alse have the original recipe for Dim sum, so you can check it out.

• 1 pound (450g) ground pork 1 pound (450g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 package round dumpling wrappers 1 package round dumpling wrappers
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, orange juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ground pork mixture and mix thoroughly.
3. 3.
   Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the pork mixture in the center. Fold the wrapper in half and seal the edges by pressing firmly. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and pork mixture.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat. Carefully place the dumplings in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. 5.
   Serve the Cuban-inspired dim sum hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as a tangy mojo sauce or a spicy pineapple salsa.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground pork — Make sure to use lean ground pork for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute it with ground chicken or turkey.
• Orange juice — Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor. Avoid using bottled orange juice with added sugars.
• Dumpling wrappers — Look for round dumpling wrappers in the refrigerated section of your local Asian grocery store. If unavailable, you can make your own wrappers using a mixture of all-purpose flour and water.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispy texture, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the dumplings.
• Serve the dim sum immediately after frying to maintain their crispiness.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces to enhance the Cuban flavors. Try a spicy mango salsa or a tangy lime aioli.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-inspired dim sum as an appetizer or as part of a tapas-style meal. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for an added pop of color.

Presentation advice

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the dim sum on a banana leaf-lined platter. Arrange them in a circular pattern, with a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center.