Asian > Korean > Appetizer

Kongjaban Dumplings Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 40-50 dumpling wrappers
- Water for boiling

Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Dumpling wrappers
- Steamer basket or pot with steamer insert

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Take a dumpling wrapper and place a tablespoon of the filling in the center. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper.

3. Fold the wrapper in half and press the edges together to seal. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

4. Repeat the process until all the filling is used up.

5. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings to the water and stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

6. Cook the dumplings for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.

7. Remove the dumplings from the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a steamer basket or pot with a steamer insert.

8. Steam the dumplings for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they are cooked through.

9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 12-14 minutes
Temperature:
Boiling water: 212°F (100°C)
Steaming: 212°F (100°C)
Serving size:
Makes 40-50 dumplings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 70
Total fat: 3g
Saturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Total sugars: 0g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of ground pork.
- Shredded carrots or mushrooms can be used instead of cabbage.
- Rice vinegar can be used instead of soy sauce.
- Canola or vegetable oil can be used instead of sesame oil.

Variations:
- Add chopped shrimp or crab meat to the filling for a seafood twist.
- Use wonton wrappers instead of dumpling wrappers for a thinner and lighter texture.
- Add chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dumpling wrappers tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- You can freeze the uncooked dumplings for later use. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
- To prevent the dumplings from sticking to the steamer basket, line it with cabbage leaves or parchment paper.

Storage instructions:
Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the dumplings, steam them for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the dumplings on a platter and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Garnishes:
Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, chili oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar

Pairings:
Jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, hot and sour soup

Suggested side dishes:
Steamed bok choy, cucumber salad, egg drop soup

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dumplings are sticking to the bottom of the pot, add more water or stir gently to prevent them from sticking.
- If the dumplings are falling apart during cooking, make sure to seal the edges tightly and don't overfill them.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the dumplings to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Always wash your hands and cooking surfaces before and after handling raw meat.

Food history:
Kongjaban dumplings are a popular Korean dish that originated in the northern region of the country. They are traditionally made with ground pork, cabbage, and green onions, and are often served as a snack or appetizer.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, umami, slightly sweet, garlicky, gingery

Serving suggestions:
Serve the dumplings with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil.

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Region: Korean

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Umami, Aromatic