Bitter Melon & Spicy Sausage Stuffed Dumplings

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the bitter melon: Slice the bitter melon in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and pith. Thinly slice the bitter melon into half-moons. Blanch in boiling water with a pinch of salt for 2 minutes, then immediately shock in ice water. Drain thoroughly and finely chop.

   ~20 min
2. 2

   Prepare the filling: Remove the sausage casing and finely chop the spicy Vietnamese sausage. Peel and devein the shrimp, then finely chop. Mince the garlic, shallots, and ginger. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped sausage, shrimp, minced aromatics, chopped bitter melon, fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

   ~15 min
3. 3

   Make the dumpling wrappers: In a large bowl, combine rice flour and salt. Gradually add hot water while stirring with chopsticks until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rest for 30 minutes.

   ~40 min
4. 4

   Assemble the dumplings: Divide the dough into small, equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter). Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and pleat the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

   ~30 min
5. 5

   Steam the dumplings: Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or banana leaves. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until the wrappers are translucent and the filling is cooked through.

   ~12 min
6. 6

   Serve hot.