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Panda Express Copycat Fresh Fried Dumplings: A Taste of Chinese Cuisine at Home

Panda Express has carved out a niche in the fast-food landscape, combining the flavours of traditional Chinese cuisine with the convenience of quick service. One of their standout offerings is the Fresh Fried Dumplings, which have earned a loyal following thanks to their crispy exterior and flavourful filling. If you’re craving these delightful bites but prefer to whip them up at home, we’ve got just the recipe for you. This guide will provide you with a simple, yet delicious, way to replicate these dumplings in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• Cornstarch (for dusting)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ground pork (or chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Slowly add the boiling water to the flour mixture, stirring continuously with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix together the ground meat (or alternative), green onions, cabbage, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings

1. After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
2. Roll each portion into a small circle (approximately 3 inches in diameter) on a surface dusted with cornstarch.
3. Place a generous teaspoon of the filling in the centre of each circle.
4. Moisten the edges of the dough with a little water, fold the dough over the filling, and pinch the edges together to seal. Ensure there are no air pockets to prevent bursting during cooking.
5. For an authentic touch, pleat the edges by pinching them with your fingers.

Step 4: Fry the Dumplings

1. Heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, place the dumplings in a single layer in the pan, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to fry them in batches.
3. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown on the bottom.
4. Carefully add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to the pan and immediately cover it with a lid. This will steam the dumplings for about 5 minutes.
5. After the water has evaporated, remove the lid and continue frying for another minute to re-crisp the bottoms.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer the dumplings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, vinegar, or chilli oil.

Final Thoughts

Making Panda Express-style Fresh Fried Dumplings at home is a rewarding experience that not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also lets you customise your flavour combinations. Whether you opt for traditional pork, a veg-packed filling, or even a fusion option, these dumplings are sure to impress family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a beloved dish from the comfort of your own home!

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