Liaoning-style Smearcase Dumplings

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Smearcase dish with the flavors of Liaoning cuisine. The original Smearcase is typically a sweet dish, but we transform it into a savory delight by incorporating Liaoning-style ingredients and seasonings. The addition of soy sauce and scallions gives the dish an umami kick, while the thin dumpling wrappers provide a lighter texture compared to the original pastry crust. We alse have the original recipe for Smearcase, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) cottage cheese 2 cups (470ml) cottage cheese
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 30 dumpling wrappers 30 dumpling wrappers
• Soy sauce, for serving Soy sauce, for serving
• Chopped scallions, for garnish Chopped scallions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the cottage cheese mixture in the center.
3. 3.
   Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it in half, sealing the edges tightly.
4. 4.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dumpling wrappers and filling.
5. 5.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the dumplings and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. 6.
   Remove the dumplings from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving plate.
7. 7.
   Drizzle the cooked dumplings with soy sauce and sprinkle chopped scallions on top.
8. 8.
   Serve the Liaoning-style Smearcase Dumplings hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cottage cheese — Make sure to use a creamy and smooth cottage cheese for the filling. If the cottage cheese is too watery, drain it before using.
• Dumpling wrappers — Ensure that the wrappers are thin and pliable. If using store-bought wrappers, keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the cottage cheese filling.
• Serve the dumplings with a side of chili oil for an extra kick of heat.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, pan-fry the cooked dumplings in a little oil until golden brown.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as black vinegar or sweet chili sauce.
• Make a large batch of dumplings and freeze them for later use.

Serving advice

Serve the Liaoning-style Smearcase Dumplings as a main course or as part of a dim sum feast. Accompany them with a bowl of steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cooked dumplings on a platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Drizzle the soy sauce over the dumplings in an artistic pattern and sprinkle the chopped scallions on top for a pop of color. Garnish the platter with a few lemon wedges for an extra touch of freshness.