Gambaloci with Chinese Islamic Twist

Ingredients

In this Chinese Islamic adaptation of Gambaloci, we incorporate the flavors and techniques commonly found in Chinese Islamic cuisine. The original Croatian dish is transformed by using Chinese Islamic spices such as cumin, coriander, and star anise, which infuse the shrimp filling with a rich and aromatic taste. Additionally, the dumplings are steamed instead of boiled, resulting in a lighter and more delicate texture. We alse have the original recipe for Gambaloci, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 30 dumpling wrappers 30 dumpling wrappers
• Chopped green onions, for garnish Chopped green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, combine the shrimp, garlic, cumin, coriander, star anise, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Pulse until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
2. 2.
   Place a spoonful of the shrimp filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and seal the edges by pressing firmly.
3. 3.
   Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp filling is cooked through and the dumpling wrappers are translucent.
4. 4.
   Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If fresh shrimp is not available, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly before using.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the dumplings from sticking to the steamer basket, line it with cabbage leaves or parchment paper.
• Serve the dumplings with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil for an extra kick.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the shrimp filling mixture.
• Experiment with different shapes for the dumplings, such as pleating the edges or folding them into crescents, to add visual interest to your presentation.
• If you're short on time, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers instead of making them from scratch.

Serving advice

Serve the Gambaloci dumplings hot as an appetizer or as part of a larger Chinese Islamic-inspired meal. They pair well with a side of steamed rice or noodles.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a platter, garnished with chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve them in traditional Chinese Islamic-style steamer baskets for an authentic touch.