Making Dumplings for the Umpteenth Time

I love my students. They are smart and sweet and funny and so full of life.

And they love jiao zi (Chinese dumplings). 

And so, I end up making jiao zi often with them.

This year, I have a new group of Freshman, and some of the girls came over to participate this very Chinese tradition. 

Some lessons I have learned, after making hundreds of jiao zi.

1. There is no "right" way to fold a dumpling. Every province, and even every family will have their own unique folding method. I have learned about ten methods from different students all over China. You just need to find what works best for you.

2. Get the pork ground at the market! These girls came to my apartment with a big hunk of meat, thinking that my puny knives could do the job. Not a chance... but we made it work. 

3. Think out of the box about ingredients. Yes, pork and cabbage are delicious and traditional, but egg and chive jiao zi are magically delicious. Try out something new!

Some photos of my girls: