Bloom and Blossom Dumplings

Inspired by preserved radish omelet (a classic Hakka dish eaten across Taiwan), this is a vegetarian dumpling that is packed with texture and flavor. The preserved radish brings a savory umami flavor and a satisfying crunch to the dumplings.

Bloom and Blossom Dumplings 花素蒸餃

Recipe by Tiffany Alexandria of CHOOCHOO-ca-CHEW, The Dumpling Club
Shop the CHOOCHOO-ca-CHEW Dumpling Collection for ingredients and recipe bundles
Yields 48 dumplings

Ingredients

• 1 box of extra firm tofu
• 1 bunch of bean thread noodles, soaked for 10 minutes and finely chopped
• 3 eggs, beaten until fluffy
• ⅔ cup Preserved Daikon Radish, about 20 strips
• 1 cup green beans, finely minced
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 tbsp Soy Paste with Glutinous Rice Grains
• 2 tbsp White Sesame Oil, Cold Pressed
• ¼ tsp Ve Wong MSG
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 48 dumpling wrappers (thin, if possible)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan
• Bamboo and Cypress Steamer
• Tatung Electric Steamer

Instructions

1. Soak daikon strips in warm water for 10 minutes, then remove and finely dice. Soak in fresh water again for 10 more minutes. Remove, then squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a pan, heat the daikon mince over medium heat without any oil to remove the excess water. Cook until the daikon is fragrant and slightly golden, about 1 minute.
3. Add 1 tbsp of oil to the daikon in the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the beaten eggs and scramble. Cook until the eggs are golden. Crumble into small pieces and remove from heat.
4. Crumble the tofu into a mixing bowl, add in the radish scramble and remaining ingredients. Mix until incorporated.
5. Fill each wrapper with about 2 tbsp of filling and fold as desired.
6. Line a bamboo steamer with a soaked steamer cloth or parchment paper, then place the folded dumplings in the basket(s).
7. Place 2 rice cups of water in the Tatung Electric Steamer, then press the button. Once the water starts rapidly boiling, place the steamer baskets over the top. Steam for 10 minutes, until the wrappers turn slightly translucent or glossy. You can also do this over a pan on the stove.
8. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like Wu Yin Taiwanese Black Vinegar.