Dried meat dumplings, also known as beef jerky dumplings or biltong dumplings in some regions, are a type of dumpling that includes dried meat as one of its key ingredients. These dumplings are popular in some parts of the world, especially where dried or cured meats are common in the local cuisine.
Here’s a basic recipe for making dried meat dumplings:
Ingredients:
- Dried meat (such as beef jerky or biltong), finely chopped or ground
- Dumpling wrappers or dough
- Onions, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Spices and seasonings (e.g., pepper, paprika, herbs, or your preferred seasoning)
- Water (for sealing the dumplings)
Instructions:
- Prepare the filling:
- In a bowl, combine the finely chopped or ground dried meat, chopped onions, minced garlic, and your choice of spices and seasonings. Mix well to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble the dumplings:
- Take a dumpling wrapper or a small circle of dough.
- Place a small amount of the meat filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a bit of water to help seal the dumpling.
- Fold and seal the dumplings:
- Fold the wrapper in half, enclosing the filling, to create a half-moon shape.
- Carefully seal the edges by pressing them together, making sure there are no openings for the filling to leak out.
- Cook the dumplings:
- You can cook these dumplings by boiling, steaming, or pan-frying, depending on your preference. Here are some common methods:
- Boiling: Place the dumplings in a pot of boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, which usually takes a few minutes.
- Steaming: Steam the dumplings for around 10-15 minutes until they are cooked through.
- Pan-frying: Heat some oil in a pan and fry the dumplings until they become crispy and golden brown.
- You can cook these dumplings by boiling, steaming, or pan-frying, depending on your preference. Here are some common methods:
- Serve:
- Serve the dried meat dumplings with your choice of dipping sauce or condiments. They can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a larger meal.
Dried meat dumplings offer a unique twist on traditional dumplings, combining the rich, savory flavor of dried meat with the texture of the dumpling wrapper. You can experiment with different types of dried meats and seasonings to create the flavor profile that suits your taste.