Wisconsin-style Cheese-filled Jiaozi

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Jiaozi recipe is modified to incorporate the flavors of Wisconsin. The original recipe typically uses a combination of ground pork, cabbage, and various seasonings for the filling. However, in this Wisconsin-style version, the filling includes Wisconsin cheese, such as cheddar or colby, to add a rich and creamy element. The cheese complements the other ingredients and creates a unique fusion of Chinese and Wisconsin flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Jiaozi, 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
• 1 cup (150g) ground pork 1 cup (150g) ground pork
• 1 cup (150g) Wisconsin cheese (cheddar or colby), grated 1 cup (150g) Wisconsin cheese (cheddar or colby), grated
• 1/2 cup (75g) cabbage, finely chopped 1/2 cup (75g) cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, finely chopped 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large 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 ground pork, Wisconsin cheese, cabbage, scallions, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. 3.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle in half and pinch the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the skillet, flat side down, and cook until the bottoms are golden brown.
6. 6.
   Pour water into the skillet, enough to cover the bottom of the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dumplings steam for about 8-10 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through.
7. 7.
   Remove the lid and continue cooking until the water has evaporated and the bottoms of the dumplings are crispy.
8. 8.
   Serve the Wisconsin-style Cheese-filled Jiaozi hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Wisconsin cheese — Use a high-quality Wisconsin cheese, such as cheddar or colby, for the best flavor and melting properties. Grate the cheese before adding it to the filling to ensure even distribution.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers instead of making the dough from scratch.
• Experiment with different types of Wisconsin cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Serve the Jiaozi with a variety of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy mustard sauce.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground pork with tofu or mushrooms.
• Freeze any leftover dumplings for later enjoyment. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag.

Serving advice

Serve the Wisconsin-style Cheese-filled Jiaozi as an appetizer or a main course. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with chopped scallions for an attractive presentation. Provide a selection of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cooked Jiaozi on a serving platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the filling is visible. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top for added visual appeal. Serve with small bowls of dipping sauce on the side.