Steamed Meat Dumplings
These delicate, juicy steamed dumplings feature a savory beef filling wrapped in a tender, translucent dough that is perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- •1 pound (450g) ground beef
- •2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- •3/4 cup (180ml) boiling water
- •2 cups finely shredded napa cabbage
- •2 tablespoons soy sauce
- •1 tablespoon sesame oil
- •1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
- •1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, pour boiling water over the flour and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth, cover with a damp cloth, and let rest for 20 minutes.
- 2
In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, green onions, salt, and white pepper. Mix vigorously in one direction until the mixture becomes sticky and well-combined.
- 3
Roll the dough into a long log and cut into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
- 4
Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the edges up and pleat to seal, ensuring the dumpling is tightly closed.
- 5
Line a bamboo steamer or a metal steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- 6
Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, leaving an inch of space between them. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes until the wrappers are translucent and the meat is cooked through.
💡 Chef tips
- To make ahead, freeze the raw dumplings on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag; steam them directly from frozen for an extra 3-4 minutes.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time until it becomes pliable.
- Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished dumplings should have a slightly chewy, translucent skin that reveals a succulent, savory, and aromatic meat filling that bursts with flavor upon the first bite.