Bolinho Chinese Recipe - Kerala Food Channel
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Bolinho Chinese Recipe: How to make Bolinho Chinese?

ByFood & Recipes Channel

Bolinho Chinese, also known as Chinese dumplings or potstickers, are delightful bite-sized treats that encapsulate the essence of Chinese cuisine. These little parcels are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (often pork or chicken), vegetables, and aromatic spices, then pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. What makes bolinho Chinese special is their versatility; they can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even a snack, making them a favorite for all occasions.

Ingredients

To make approximately 20 bolinho Chinese, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • Ground pork (or chicken): 1 pound (450 g)
  • Cabbage: 1 cup, finely chopped
  • Green onions: ¼ cup, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
  • Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (for binding)

For the Wrappers:

  • Wonton wrappers: 20 pieces (store-bought or homemade)

For Cooking:

  • Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Water: ½ cup (for steaming)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch.
  2. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. This helps to ensure that the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Assemble the Dumplings

  1. Take a wonton wrapper and place it on a clean, flat surface.
  2. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
  3. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your finger or a brush.
  4. Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal tightly. You can also pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
  5. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once the oil is hot, add the dumplings in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other.
  3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
  4. Carefully add the water to the skillet (it will steam and splatter, so be cautious).
  5. Cover the skillet with a lid immediately and let the dumplings steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the dumplings are cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Once cooked, remove the lid and allow the dumplings to crisp up for an additional minute.
  2. Serve hot with a side of soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Serving Suggestions

Bolinho Chinese can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • Serve with a side of steamed bok choy or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Pair with jasmine rice or fried rice for a heartier option.
  • Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce mixed with rice vinegar and chili oil, for added flavor.
  • Complement with a chilled drink like green tea or a light lager beer.

Nutritional Information

Bolinho Chinese are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a brief overview of their nutritional benefits:

  • Protein: The ground pork or chicken provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of cabbage and green onions contributes vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.
  • Low in Calories: When prepared with lean meat and minimal oil, these dumplings can be a low-calorie option for those watching their intake.
  • Healthy Fats: Sesame oil adds healthy fats to the dish, which are beneficial for heart health.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat for the filling?
Yes! You can substitute ground pork with chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. Are wonton wrappers the same as dumpling wrappers?
While they are similar, wonton wrappers are thinner than traditional dumpling wrappers. You can use either, but dumpling wrappers will yield a chewier texture.

3. Can I freeze bolinho Chinese?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with bolinho Chinese?
Popular options include soy sauce, chili oil, vinegar-based sauces, or a mixture of soy sauce with sesame oil and chopped garlic.

5. How can I make these dumplings healthier?
To make bolinho Chinese healthier, use lean meat, increase the vegetable ratio, and opt for steaming instead of frying.

Conclusion

Bolinho Chinese are a fantastic dish that can be prepared quickly and easily, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With their crispy exterior and juicy filling, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy the process of making these delightful dumplings and savor every bite of this delicious dish!

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