The dumpling party sponsored by the Asian American Writer’s Workshop (AAWW), hosted by NY Times reporter Jennifer 8 Lee at her home in the city was the only dumpling party I’ve ever attended, and of course the best! So much so that our contributing blogger Allie and I were thinking about hosting one ourselves!

When we first arrived at her house, the fragrance from the different meat mixtures, ranging from pork w/ shrimp (traditional), to turkey, beef, and vegetarian were so inviting, we decided we HAD to eat before actually working at the wrappers’ table. Since this group consisted mostly 20 and 30 something writers and their friends, the shapes of the dumplings were very unique and creative. After we sampled some that were already pan fried or steamed, we decided it was time for us to contribute.

Born into a Shanghainess family, I didn’t eat a lot of dumplings (but definitely a lot of won tons) as dumplings are traditionally a northern Chinese staple. So my dumpling making skills were fairly limited. Given the square wrapper that was available on the table, I couldn’t get it right! So finally, I had to improvise! I decided it was better to do it like a tortellini than a true dumpling, because I couldn’t close all corners without the meat falling out of the wrapper. I have to say, despite the Italian look, it tasted fantastic, especially with some coriander chutney and spicy sauce!
Our host, my new idol was also most gracious. She steamed, she pan fried, she served, and most of all, she gave me a copy of her book The Fortune Cookie Chronicle from her own collection and autographed it w/ nothing but a fortune that reads “Take advantage of your great imagination, it will serve you will.” How appropriate is that for our new business?

one of the many batches of dumplings we made

Debbie and Allie making dumplings

w/ Jennifer 8. Lee (center) and other AAWW members