Ainu-style Steamed Dumplings

Ingredients

In this Ainu-style adaptation, we incorporate Ainu flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist on the traditional Chinese Xiaolongbao. The filling is prepared using locally sourced ingredients, such as wild game or fish, combined with Ainu spices and herbs. The dumpling wrappers are thinner and more delicate, allowing the flavors of the filling to shine through. The cooking technique remains the same, with the dumplings being steamed to perfection. We alse have the original recipe for Xiaolongbao, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 180ml (6 fl oz) warm water 180ml (6 fl oz) warm water
• 250g (8.8 oz) locally sourced wild game or fish, finely minced 250g (8.8 oz) locally sourced wild game or fish, finely minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Ainu spice blend (a mixture of dried herbs and spices commonly used in Ainu cuisine) 1 tablespoon Ainu spice blend (a mixture of dried herbs and spices commonly used in Ainu cuisine)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine) 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Ainu spice blend, for garnish Ainu spice blend, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish Chopped green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and warm water. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced wild game or fish, chopped onion, minced garlic, Ainu spice blend, soy sauce, mirin, and salt. Set aside.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges of the circle towards the center, pleating and sealing the dumpling.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a steamer. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, leaving some space between them.
6. 6.
   Steam the dumplings for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and the dumpling wrappers are translucent.
7. 7.
   Remove the dumplings from the steamer and garnish with Ainu spice blend and chopped green onions.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavors of Ainu-style steamed dumplings.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Wild game or fish — Ensure that the wild game or fish is finely minced to achieve a smooth filling texture.
• Ainu spice blend — If you don't have access to ready-made Ainu spice blend, you can create your own by combining dried herbs and spices commonly used in Ainu cuisine, such as dried seaweed, sansho pepper, and ginger.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve thin and delicate dumpling wrappers, roll out the dough as thinly as possible without tearing it.
• Make sure the filling is well-seasoned to bring out the flavors of Ainu spices.
• Serve the dumplings immediately after steaming to enjoy them at their best texture and taste.
• Experiment with different locally sourced wild game or fish to create unique flavor variations.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of Ainu chili powder to the filling mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Ainu-style steamed dumplings as a main course or as part of a larger Ainu-inspired meal. Accompany them with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of mirin for a delightful burst of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed dumplings on a traditional Ainu-style serving plate or a bamboo steamer to showcase their cultural significance. Garnish with a sprinkle of Ainu spice blend and chopped green onions for an appealing visual presentation.