Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam! These magical pyramid-shaped dumplings are not just a dish, but a work of art that combines delicate rice flour, succulent ground pork, and the subtle crunch of jicama, all lovingly wrapped in fragrant banana leaves. Imagine unwrapping a steaming parcel that reveals a perfect triangular treasure - each bite promises an explosion of traditional Vietnamese flavors that will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant in Hanoi!
Prep Time: 1 hrs
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups glutinous rice flour
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup ground pork
- 1/2 cup diced jicama
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions
- Prepare the banana leaves by washing them thoroughly and cutting into large squares approximately 8x8 inches. Briefly pass the leaves over an open flame to make them more pliable and prevent cracking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour with water gradually, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
- For the filling, mix ground pork with diced jicama, fish sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté the mixture in a pan until the pork is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
- Take a piece of banana leaf and place a small portion of the rice dough in the center. Flatten the dough into a thin circle.
- Add a spoonful of the pork and jicama filling in the center of the dough.
- Carefully fold the banana leaf to create a pyramid shape, ensuring the edges are tightly sealed. The dumpling should resemble a triangular pyramid.
- Tie each dumpling with a thin strip of banana leaf or kitchen twine to secure the shape.
- Prepare a large steamer pot with boiling water. Place the pyramid dumplings in the steamer, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Steam the dumplings for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice dough becomes translucent and firm.
- Remove from steamer and let cool for 5-10 minutes before unwrapping.
- Serve warm with a side of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chili.
Tips
- Banana Leaf Magic: The secret to authentic flavor is using fresh banana leaves. If unavailable, look for them in Asian grocery stores or use parchment paper as a last resort.
- Dough Consistency is Key: When mixing the glutinous rice flour, add water gradually and knead thoroughly. The dough should be smooth and elastic, not too sticky or dry.
- Filling Preparation: Ensure your pork filling is well-seasoned and slightly caramelized for maximum flavor depth.
- Sealing Technique: Take extra care when folding the pyramid shape. Tight seals prevent the filling from leaking during steaming.
- Steaming Perfection: Don't overcrowd the steamer. Give each dumpling enough space to cook evenly and prevent sticking.
- Serving Suggestion: The accompanying dipping sauce is crucial - balance fish sauce, lime juice, and chili for that authentic Vietnamese taste.
- Make-Ahead Tip: These dumplings can be prepared in advance and steamed just before serving, making them perfect for entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
