Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings, also known as Bánh Bột Lọc in Vietnamese, are a beloved dish from Central Vietnam, particularly from the ancient city of Huế. These dumplings are famous for their transparent, chewy tapioca skin, which encases a savory filling of shrimp and pork. What makes Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings unique is the combination of textures and flavors—chewy dumpling skin, tender shrimp, and flavorful pork—all wrapped up in a small, delicate package.
Bánh Bột Lọc is typically served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime, and chili, adding a tangy, spicy kick that perfectly complements the subtle flavors of the dumplings. This dish is often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, but its satisfying taste and texture make it suitable for any meal.
At Viet Kitchen, we provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe so you can make these delicious Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings at home, ensuring you experience the authentic taste of Vietnam.
Ingredients for Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings (Serves 4):
- Tapioca flour: 200g
- Water: 300ml (for dough)
- Shrimp: 200g, peeled and deveined
- Pork belly: 150g, sliced thin
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Shallots: 2, minced
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro and green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fried shallots: 4 tablespoons (for garnish)
- Dipping sauce: Fish sauce, lime juice, and chili
Step-by-Step Instructions for Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the Pork Belly: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced pork belly and cook until slightly browned. Add minced garlic and shallots, then stir-fry for another minute.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Season with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then remove from heat. Set aside.
- Make the Dough:
- Prepare the Tapioca Dough: In a pot, bring 300ml of water to a boil. Remove from heat and slowly add the tapioca flour, stirring continuously to form a sticky dough. Once combined, knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Assemble the Dumplings:
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a round disc.
- Fill the Dumplings: Place a small amount of the shrimp and pork filling in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly to seal the dumpling.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- Boil the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Cool the Dumplings: Remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a bowl of cold water to cool slightly. This step helps maintain the dumpling’s chewy texture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the Dumplings: Drain the dumplings and arrange them on a serving plate. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and fried shallots.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Mix fish sauce, lime juice, and chili to make the dipping sauce. Serve the dumplings with this sauce for dipping and enjoy!
Additional Tips for Perfect Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings:
- Tapioca Flour: Tapioca flour gives these dumplings their signature translucent appearance and chewy texture. Ensure you knead the dough well to achieve the right consistency.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until ready to assemble the dumplings.
- Steaming Option: If you prefer, you can steam the dumplings instead of boiling them. Simply place them in a steamer for about 10 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings:
Advantages:
- Bánh Bột Lọc is a delicious and unique dish that showcases the delicate flavors of shrimp and pork, encased in a chewy, translucent dumpling. Its light, refreshing taste makes it an ideal snack or appetizer.
Disadvantages:
- Making Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings requires multiple steps, including preparing the filling, kneading the dough, and shaping the dumplings. While not overly complicated, it can be time-consuming.
Conclusion about Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings:
Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings are a true reflection of the ingenuity and delicate flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. With their transparent, chewy skins and savory filling, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer or a light meal, Bánh Bột Lọc is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore authentic Vietnamese cooking.
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