Shanghai Style Mantou Recipe – Pan Fried Momos

Discover the delightful flavors of Shanghai with this easy-to-follow recipe for Pan Fried Momos, also known as Shanghai Style Mantou. This exquisite appetizer is not only vegetarian but also packed with vibrant ingredients and satisfying textures, making it perfect for parties or as a delightful side dish to accompany your favorite soup, such as Vegetable Manchow Soup.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Making the Dough

Begin by preparing the wonton dough for your momos. In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Gradually incorporate a little vegetable stock (or water) at a time, mixing and kneading the flour until you achieve a smooth and pliable dough. This should take about five minutes of continuous kneading to ensure the dough is elastic and not sticky.

Once the dough is formed, seal it in a ziplock bag, pressing out any excess air to prevent it from drying out. Allow the dough to rest for at least 10 minutes; this resting period will help the dough become softer and more manageable.

2. Preparing the Filling

While the dough rests, let’s prepare the delicious vegetable filling. Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped ginger and garlic, sautéing them until fragrant. Then, add the finely chopped red bell pepper and tiny broccoli florets to the pan. Season the mixture with the homemade hoisin sauce, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Cook the mixture until all the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color. Finally, stir in the chopped spring onions and sauté for an additional minute. Once cooked, set the filling aside to cool.

3. Shaping the Momos

Now that both the dough and filling are ready, it’s time to shape the momos. Divide the rested dough into small portions, roughly the size of a lemon or about an inch in diameter. Lightly dust each portion with flour to prevent sticking, and roll them out into thin circles, keeping them even and not too thick.

Place a small spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of each rolled-out circle. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching and pleating to form a half-moon shape. This technique not only secures the filling but also gives your momos a beautiful frilled edge. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling, experimenting with different shapes if you wish.

4. Cooking the Momos

In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium heat. Gently place the shaped momos into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Add a ladleful of vegetable stock or water to the pan, then cover it with a lid immediately to create steam. Let the momos cook for approximately 10 minutes, allowing them to steam and cook through.

Once cooked, uncover the pan and drizzle in some soy sauce and additional chili sauce, tossing the momos carefully to ensure they are evenly coated and infused with flavor.

5. Serving

Your Shanghai Style Mantou – Pan Fried Momos are now ready to be served! Present these delightful dumplings as a fabulous appetizer at your next gathering or as a scrumptious side dish with Vegetable Manchow Soup for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!

Tips for Perfect Momos

• Ensure the dough is well-kneaded for the right texture.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Serve with additional dipping sauces, like soy sauce or chili sauce, for added flavor.
• If you prefer, these momos can also be steamed instead of pan-fried for a lighter option.

By following this recipe, you’ll bring the vibrant tastes of Shanghai to your table, allowing you and your guests to savor the delightful experience of homemade pan-fried momos. Enjoy cooking and serving this delicious dish as you continue your culinary journey!