# These Trending No-Fold Blanket Dumplings Have Made Their Debut
If you enjoy siu mai or any kind of Chinese dumplings, you must treat yourself to these delightful and simple blanket dumplings. It’s an adorable new viral method to prepare dumplings that is quicker than traditional folding and tastes equally delicious. Honestly, who can resist dumplings?
Like any exciting new trend, there are multiple variations. I adore dumplings, I love trends, and I’m all about friendly competitions, so naturally, I put together a blanket dumpling showdown.
## What Are Blanket Dumplings?
In simple terms, blanket dumplings are deconstructed dumplings. The filling is molded into meatball shapes, with dumpling wrappers gently draped over the top, resembling little blankets, hence the name.
## How to Create No-Fold Blanket Dumplings (Two Variations)
Making blanket dumplings is really straightforward. Basically, you’re scooping the filling and wrapping the dumpling wrapper around it. You can either place the blanket/dumpling wrapper on top or underneath.
### Blankets on Top
1. Prepare the dumpling filling by combining ground pork, finely chopped cabbage, aromatic ingredients, and seasonings.
2. Warm some oil in a pan over medium heat, and once heated, spoon the filling directly into the pan in 1.5 tbsp portions.
3. Cover the mounds with dumpling wrappers, blanketing them.
4. Pour a little water into the pan, cover it, and steam until the dumplings are fully cooked.
5. Remove the cover, allow the dumpling meat to get hot and crispy, then savor!
### Blankets Underneath
1. Prepare the dumpling filling by combining ground pork, finely chopped cabbage, aromatic ingredients, and seasonings.
2. Warm some oil in a pan over medium heat. Scoop about 1.5 tbsp of filling into the center of a dumpling wrapper.
3. Gather the dumpling wrapper around the sides and place it in the pan. Repeat until all the filling is used up. The dumplings are perfectly fine close and pressed together.
4. Pour in a little water, cover, and steam until the dumplings are fully cooked.
5. Remove the cover, allow the dumpling wrappers to become hot and crispy, then enjoy!
## No-Fold Blanket Dumpling Ingredients
– **Dumpling wrappers** – found in grocery stores, usually in the refrigerated section near tofu. If not available, you can create your own.
– **Ground pork** – the preferred choice for dumplings, though any ground meat will work.
– **Cabbage** – adds moisture; chop finely and salt beforehand to prevent excess water in the filling.
– **Ginger and garlic** – fresh ginger and garlic enhance the flavor.
– **Green onions** – thinly sliced for a fresh touch.
– **Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and toasted sesame oil** – primary flavorings, along with salt and white pepper.
– **Cornstarch** – assists in binding the filling and gives it a silky texture.
## Blanket Dumplings vs. Upside-Down Blanket Dumplings
You may have noticed that I presented two methods for making blanket dumplings earlier. After blanket dumplings gained popularity, some people wondered why dumplings were being made upside down. The classic blanket dumplings are indeed upside down, as the filling is exposed, which may result in overcooking and dryness.
The upside-down blanket dumpling technique involves placing the wrappers first and then adding the meatballs on top, akin to siu mai.
## Which is Superior?
Both techniques yield distinct outcomes. The original method produces crispy browned meatballs, while the upside-down version creates a crispy dumpling skin. After trying both, I found the original version to be superior, combining the crunch of the seared meatball with the crispy dumpling wrapper while keeping the top moist.
### Blanket Dumpling Sauce
For dipping, I favor a sauce that’s tangy, salty, sweet, and has a hint of spiciness. Here’s my preferred mix:
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tsp sweet soy sauce
– 2 tsp rice vinegar or Chinese black vinegar
– 1-2 tsp chili oil or chili crisp
– 1 tsp minced garlic
– Thinly sliced green onions, to taste
## What to Accompany Blanket Dumplings
Blanket dumplings are a full meal by themselves, but if you’re in the mood for a Chinese feast, consider pairing them with stir-fried vegetables or a light soup.
Enjoy your dumpling experience!