How to Make Stew Dumplings Without Suet
Stew dumplings, also known as wonton, are a popular Chinese dish that combines the savory flavors of a stew with the delicate texture of dumplings. Traditionally, stew dumplings are made with suet, a type of fat derived from the kidneys of animals. However, for those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, it’s possible to make stew dumplings without suet. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making delicious stew dumplings without the use of suet.
Ingredients
To make stew dumplings without suet, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of warm water
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of diced vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onions)
– 1/2 cup of diced tofu
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
– 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
– 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup of cornstarch
– 1/4 cup of cold water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until the dough forms a ball. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the diced vegetables, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, five-spice powder, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Wet the edges of the dough with water, fold it over the filling, and pinch the edges together to seal. Repeat this process until all the filling is used.
4. Cook the Stew: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the dumplings to the boiling broth and cook for about 5 minutes. The dumplings will float to the surface when they are cooked.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water together until smooth. Pour the mixture into the boiling broth and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Pour the sauce over the cooked dumplings and serve hot. You can also garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious stew dumplings without the use of suet. This vegetarian version is perfect for those who want to incorporate more plant-based dishes into their diet while still savoring the comforting flavors of this classic Chinese dish.