Here’s a recipe for Kanom Jeeb, traditional Thai-style dumplings that are similar to Chinese shumai, but with a unique Thai twist!
Ingredients:
For the Dumpling Filling:
- ½ lb ground pork
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp cilantro roots or stems, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp water chestnuts or bamboo shoots, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (to bind the filling)
- 25-30 wonton wrappers
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili flakes or chili paste (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Garnishes:
- Fried garlic or shallots (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions
- Cilantro leaves
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, garlic, cilantro, fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, sugar, egg, and cornstarch. Mix well until fully combined. If using water chestnuts or bamboo shoots, add them for extra crunch.
- Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to firm up the filling.
2. Assemble the Dumplings:
- Place a wonton wrapper in the palm of your hand. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
- Gather the edges of the wrapper around the filling, lightly pressing the wrapper to form a pleated cup. Leave the top open so the filling is exposed.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Steam the Dumplings:
- Line a bamboo or metal steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Place the dumplings in the steamer, leaving some space between them to avoid sticking.
- Steam over boiling water for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pork and shrimp are fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste, balancing the saltiness and tanginess.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the dumplings hot, topped with fried garlic or shallots, chopped green onions, and cilantro leaves for extra flavor and crunch.
- Dip in the prepared sauce and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the dumplings as an appetizer or as part of a dim sum-style meal.
- Pair with a side of jasmine rice or a light soup.
These Kanom Jeeb dumplings are packed with savory, umami-rich flavors and make for a delicious and fun-to-eat dish!