Holiday & Seasonal

Lantern Festival Dumplings

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Lantern Festival Dumplings
Golden dumplings served with vibrant dipping sauces, symbolizing prosperity and happiness during the Lantern Festival.

As the Lantern Festival illuminates the night sky with glowing lanterns and laughter fills the air, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a dish that embodies tradition and community. These Lantern Festival Dumplings are not only delicious but also carry rich symbolism of prosperity and happiness. Perfectly crafted for sharing, they bring warmth and joy to any festive gathering.

“Dumplings: A symbol of unity and fortune wrapped in dough.”

Ingredients

  • Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 3/4 cup warm water

  • Filling:

  • 1/2 pound ground pork

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped shrimp (peeled)

  • 2 green onions, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Dipping Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)

  • Chopped scallions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour with warm water gradually until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Make the Filling: In another bowl, mix ground pork, shrimp, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  3. Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch each). Roll each ball into a thin circle (approximately 4 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.

  4. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop dumplings into the boiling water one at a time. Cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain well.

Dipping Sauce Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste (if using) until sugar dissolves.

  2. Garnish: Add chopped scallions to the dipping sauce for extra flavor and garnish.

These Lantern Festival Dumplings are not only a feast for the palate but also a testament to the joy of sharing traditions with family and friends. As you savor each bite, let their flavors transport you to a night filled with glowing lanterns and heartfelt celebrations. Enjoy this delightful dish that perfectly captures the spirit of the Lantern Festival!

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