Dumpling Making Festivities at Chinese Table 2023

Hsin-Tzu Jen
December 01, 2023

In a burst of laughter, camaraderie, and the aromatic embrace of Chinese flavors, the Chinese Table event unfolded into a delightful celebration of cultural exchange and gastronomic joy.

Participants at the Chinese Table dumpling-making event began by filling dumpling skins with their favorite fillings, followed by dipping their culinary creations into a boiling pot of water, allowing them to cook to a soft and springy perfection

In a burst of laughter, camaraderie, and the aromatic embrace of Chinese flavors, the Chinese Table event on December 1st unfolded into a delightful celebration of cultural exchange and gastronomic joy. The venue buzzed with excitement as Chinese Flagship students, the Associate Director, Prof Julie “Jiang” Li, faculty members, including Prof Haidan Wang, Jing Wu Laoshi, and Chinese Section graduate students. The people gathered to embark on a culinary journey filled with laughter, learning, and the art of dumpling-making.

From noon to 3 pm, the lively gathering transformed into a dumpling haven, where participants immersed themselves in the age-old tradition of crafting these delectable parcels of happiness. The event’s highlight was the hands-on activity that allowed everyone to roll up their sleeves and create their own culinary masterpieces. The room echoed with the sounds of laughter and conversation as friendships flourished over shared ingredients and cooking techniques.

Ying-Yu Chen, Nini Li, and Nan Wang Laoshi carefully mold and shape another portion of dumplings for attendees to try once they have finished cooking

A symphony of flavors awaited the participants as they had the choice between vegetarian and non-vegetarian dumpling fillings. Whether it was the savory blend of seasoned meats or the crisp freshness of garden vegetables, each participant found a canvas for their culinary creativity. Under the expert guidance of Prof Haidan Wang, Prof Jiang Julie Li, and Jing Wu Laoshi, the art of folding and sealing dumplings was demystified, turning novice chefs into dumpling virtuosos.

The aroma of sizzling dumplings wafted through the air, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that heightened the senses and fueled the anticipation of the feast to come. As the dumplings cooked to perfection, participants exchanged tips, tricks, and anecdotes, creating a tapestry of cultural exchange that went beyond the culinary realm.

The event was not merely about creating delicious dumplings; it was a celebration of diversity, friendship, and the shared love for good food. As participants savored the fruits of their labor, each dumpling became a symbol of the connections formed, the laughter shared, and the joy discovered in the simple act of cooking together. This event put a perfect period for the Fall 2023 semester for all the Chinese Flagship Students.

The aroma of sizzling dumplings wafted through the air, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that heightened the senses and fueled the anticipation of the feast to come.

Chinese Table participants work together and chatter amongst themselves as they prepare and partake in the savory and belly-filling homemade dumplings