Cannabic Dumplings

Bring a delicious, elevated twist to traditional dumplings with this cannabis-infused recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, the dumplings feature a tender homemade wrapper, a savory filling, and an optional dipping sauce that takes the flavors to the next level. This recipe makes approximately 24 dumplings.

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Wrappers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 pound ground pork (or substitute ground chicken, turkey, or tofu)
• 1/2 cup peeled and finely chopped shrimp (optional)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon cannabis-infused oil or butter (adjust dosage based on preference and potency)

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
• 1/2 cup water

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cannabis-infused sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dumpling Wrappers

1. Prepare the dough: Mix the flour and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes together into a ball.
2. Knead the dough: Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps it become easier to roll out.
4. Divide and roll: Cut the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into 6 equal parts. Roll each piece into a ball, flatten it, and use a rolling pin to create 3-inch round wrappers. Cover the wrappers you're not using with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannabis-Infused Filling

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground pork (or protein substitute), shrimp, cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the infusion: Melt or gently warm the cannabis-infused butter (if using butter) and mix it into the filling thoroughly. Ensure even distribution for consistent potency.
3. Mix well: Use your hands to combine all the ingredients until the filling has a sticky, cohesive texture. This ensures the dumplings will stay juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Fill the wrappers: Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill.
2. Seal the dumplings: Wet the edge of the wrapper with a fingertip dipped in water. Fold the wrapper over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can pleat the edges for a more decorative look, if desired.
3. Repeat: Place the finished dumplings on a lightly floured surface, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

1. Heat the oil: Add 2 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil to a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pan-fry the dumplings: Arrange the dumplings in the skillet, flat side down. Fry for 2–3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
3. Steam the dumplings: Carefully add 1/2 cup of water to the skillet (watch out for splattering oil), then cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the dumpling wrappers are fully cooked and translucent.
4. Remove the lid: Allow the water to evaporate, then continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms. Remove from the skillet and transfer to a serving dish.

Step 5 (Optional): Make the Dipping Sauce

1. Mix the sauce: Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, cannabis-infused sesame oil, and chili oil in a small bowl.
2. Serve with the dumplings: The dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and mild cannabis infusion.

Tips for Success

• Dosage control: Calculate the potency of your cannabis-infused oil or butter and adjust the amount accordingly. Start with a smaller quantity if you’re unsure and work your way up.
• Avoid high heat: Be cautious not to overheat the oil or butter during cooking, as excessive temperatures can degrade cannabinoids.
• Flavor variations: Add finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or water chestnuts to the filling for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different proteins like ground beef or a plant-based meat substitute.

These cannabis-infused dumplings are perfect for introducing your readers to an elevated version of a Chinese classic. Enjoy responsibly and share the love for infused cooking!