Hessian-style Steamed Dumplings

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have incorporated Hessian flavors and ingredients into the traditional Chinese Sao mai lo recipe. The original dish typically features a filling of minced pork, shrimp, and vegetables, while our Hessian-style version focuses on minced pork, onions, and aromatic herbs. Additionally, we have introduced Hessian spices to enhance the flavors and give the dumplings a unique taste that reflects the culinary traditions of the region. We alse have the original recipe for Sao mai lo, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 150ml (5.3 fl oz) water 150ml (5.3 fl oz) water
• 250g (8.8 oz) minced pork 250g (8.8 oz) minced pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for greasing Vegetable oil for greasing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water to form a smooth dough. Knead for a few minutes until the dough is elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, nutmeg, caraway seeds, salt, and 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 edges of the dough over the filling, pleating and sealing the dumplings.
5. 5.
   Grease a steamer basket with vegetable oil and arrange the dumplings inside, leaving some space between them.
6. 6.
   Steam the dumplings over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is tender.
7. 7.
   Serve the Hessian-style Steamed Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced pork — Ensure that the minced pork is fresh and lean for the best texture and flavor.
• Ground nutmeg — Use freshly ground nutmeg for a more vibrant and aromatic taste.
• Ground caraway seeds — If you can't find ground caraway seeds, you can grind whole caraway seeds using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve perfectly pleated dumplings, practice folding the dough edges over the filling in a circular motion.
• Serve the dumplings with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili oil for an extra kick.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the pork filling.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavors of the dumplings to your liking.
• Leftover dumplings can be refrigerated and reheated by steaming for a few minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the Hessian-style Steamed Dumplings as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or part of a dim sum feast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a platter, showcasing their beautifully pleated exteriors. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a small bowl of dipping sauce on the side.