Rice Dumplings!

Today is my first time trying my hands at making rice dumplings. Was quite nervous that I even dreamt about it last night!

Went over to my Darling's house early this morning (I requested to learn from his mum, you see). His mum had got all ingredients ready and was waiting for me! (oops!)

I watched as she fried the meat, mushrooms, nuts and dried shrimps. The aroma was great! Next was frying the rice. It requires a lot of arm muscles, mind you. Not an easy thing mixing all ingredients together in a wok without spilling any. Quite a skill...

Finally the moment of anxiety was here! Time to work my hands! First aunty (future mum-in-law) showed me how to choose the leaves and fold them. It's an art holding them at the right angle before putting in the rice, otherwise you risk the dumpling coming apart while tying it. Then in went the almost cooked ingredients. You must ensure you've put in each kind before covering them with more rice. Here comes the tricky part. Packing in all ingredients to make the triangular dumpling is a skill that needs lots of practice! Well, the dumplings I made are still presentable but perhaps not of sellable standard yet. At least, it didnt split open after I tied it!

I'm pretty pleased with my effort, tho I'm not sure what the great master chef has to say about those odd-shaped dumplings I made ;p

Bon Appétit!