Dumplings for the Chinese New Year
For ethical and health reasons, many people are making the switch to a vegan diet, and the new year is a great time to get on board and make the transition. Start with something easy such as this jiaozi recipe, which is sure to please even the pickiest great-uncle at your dinner table!
Jiaozi (Chinese Dumplings)
1/4 cup water
Pinch salt
1 cup + 1 Tbsp. flour
200 g. firm tofu, drained and mashed
50 g. shitake mushrooms, minced
1/4 cup carrots, minced
3 green onion stalks, finely chopped
5 chive stalks, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar
1 Tbsp. soy sauce
1 Tbsp. flour
Water
- Combine the water, the salt, and 1 cup of the flour together in a large bowl. Knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Cover with a kitchen towel and let sit for 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
- While the dough is rising, mix together all the remaining ingredients in a separate bowl. Drain any excess liquid.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and form into 3-centimeter balls. Flatten each ball with a rolling pin until approximately 7 to 8 centimeters in diameter.
- Brush the edges of each dough piece lightly with water and place 1 teaspoonful of the filling in the center. Fold in half, pressing the edges together to seal.
- Drop one at a time into boiling water. Remove after the dumplings float to the top, about 5 minutes.
- Serve with black vinegar, soy sauce, chili, or peanut sauce or enjoy alone.
Makes approximately 20 dumplings
As you prepare to host or attend a new year’s feast, keep the animals in mind while you cook your favorite recipes. Use vegetable or mushroom stock, vegetable oils, soy milk, tofu, and vegan meats to veganize your family’s classics. Vegan food is sure to please your palate and keep your conscience clear. Happy New Year!
Posted by Edwina Baier
