Homemade Dumplings: Easy Recipes Under $2

Key Takeaway:

Learn how to make delicious homemade dumplings at a fraction of the cost of store-bought options—pan-fried, steamed, or with a crispy skirt.

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Creating homemade dumplings not only saves money but also elevates your dining experience with fresh ingredients and customized flavors. Let’s dive into three delicious methods to make dumplings under $2.

Ingredients Cost Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the cost for making homemade dumplings versus store-bought options:

Ingredient	Cost
Ground Pork (1 lb)	$1.50
Cabbage (1 head)	$0.50
Ginger (1 knob)	$0.10
Garlic (3 cloves)	$0.10
Green Onions	$0.20
Flour	$0.15
Dumpling Wrappers	$2.50/package
Total per batch	$2.55

Dumpling Dough: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Making your own dumpling dough is simple and cost-effective. Here’s how:

1. Homemade Dumpling Dough:

• Combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, hot water, and salt.
• Knead until smooth and let it rest before rolling into thin sheets.
• Cut into circles for wrappers.
• Cost: Approximately $0.15 per batch.

1. Store-Bought Dumpling Wrappers:

• Convenient but more expensive.
• One package (approximately 50 wrappers) costs around $2.50.
• Cost: Approximately $0.05 per wrapper.

Dumpling Filling: Flavorful and Affordable

The filling for dumplings is versatile and easy to prepare:

• Mix ground pork with finely chopped cabbage, ginger, garlic, green onions, sugar, salt, soy sauce, and optional sesame oil.
• Knead until well combined.
• Cost: Approximately $1.90 per batch (enough for 50 dumplings).

Cooking Methods

1. Steamed Dumplings:

• Use a steamer basket over simmering water.
• Steam for 8 minutes until cooked through.
• Cost: Economical and healthy.

1. Pan-Fried Dumplings (Gyoza):

• Brown dumplings in a non-stick skillet with a bit of oil.
• Add water, cover, and steam until water evaporates.
• Cost: Adds a crispy texture; great for appetizers.

1. Dumplings with a Crispy Skirt:

• Similar to pan-fried but with a slurry of water and flour to create a lacy, crisp bottom.
• Cost: Provides a unique texture; more effort but worth it.

Dipping Sauce: Simple and Flavorful

Make a quick dipping sauce with equal parts soy sauce and vinegar:

• Mix together soy sauce and white vinegar.
• Optional: Add a splash of toasted sesame oil or chili oil for extra flavor.
• Cost: Minimal; enhances the dumpling experience.

Conclusion

Homemade dumplings offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home. Experiment with fillings and cooking methods to find your perfect combination. Whether steamed, pan-fried, or with a crispy skirt, these dumplings are sure to impress without breaking the bank. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

For more budget-friendly recipes and tips, stay tuned for our next cooking adventure. Happy cooking!