How to Make Chicken Soup Dumplings
Chicken soup dumplings, also known as “Jianbing,” are a traditional Chinese dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken soup with the delicate texture of dumplings. These delectable morsels are a popular street food in Shanghai and have gained popularity worldwide. If you’re interested in trying your hand at making this delicious treat at home, follow these simple steps to create your own chicken soup dumplings.
Ingredients
To make chicken soup dumplings, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, boneless and skinless
– 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
– 1 cup (240ml) water
– 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
– 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) sugar
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) ginger, minced
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) white pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) Chinese five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) red chili oil (optional)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
– 1/2 cup (120ml) pork or shrimp filling (optional)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Soup: In a large pot, combine the chicken breast, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, salt, ginger, garlic, white pepper, Chinese five-spice powder, black pepper, and red chili oil (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.
2. Make the Dumpling Dough: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour and cold water together until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken, pork or shrimp filling (if using), and any additional seasonings you prefer. Set aside.
4. Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small, equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it slightly. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of the flattened dough. Moisten the edges of the dough with water, then fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
5. Cook the Dumplings: Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the dumplings in the pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Add a little water to the pan and cover with a lid to steam the dumplings for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Once the dumplings are cooked, serve them hot with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade chicken soup dumplings and savor the unique combination of flavors and textures that make this dish so special!