Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe

Welcome, fellow homemade food lovers! Today, we embark on a culinary adventure that takes us to the city of Suzhou in eastern China, where we explore a delightful twist on a beloved Asian classic – the Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe.

For centuries, mooncakes have been an integral part of Asian culture, particularly during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These intricately designed pastries symbolize unity, togetherness, and the celebration of a bountiful harvest. However, traditionally mooncakes are known for their sweet fillings, often featuring lotus seed paste or red bean paste.

In our quest to discover new and exciting flavors, we present you with the Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe, a savory take on mooncakes originating in Suzhou. Known for its rich culinary heritage and sophisticated flavors, Suzhou boasts an array of delectable dishes, and these savory mooncakes are no exception.

What distinguishes Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe is their flaky crust, delicate filling, and robust flavor profile. With a tantalizing combination of ground pork, dried shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and an array of aromatic seasonings, these mooncakes offer a savory alternative that will entice your taste buds and awaken your senses.

Preparing Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe is a labor of love, inviting you to immerse yourself in the art of homemade creations. From kneading the dough to meticulously crafting the beautifully crimped edges, each step in this recipe carries the essence of tradition and culinary craftsmanship.

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance it strikes between honoring the roots of traditional mooncakes while embracing innovative flavors. By introducing a savory filling, we elevate the mooncake experience, allowing you to enjoy them as a satisfying snack or even a main course alongside your favorite accompaniments.

So, whether you’re a mooncake enthusiast looking to try something new or a homemade food lover seeking culinary delights, let us embark on this journey together as we delve into the world of Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe. Get ready to immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and traditions of this iconic Suzhou delicacy – let’s get cooking!

Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes Recipe

Recipe by Sandra J

Servings

4-5

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• ½ cup water

• For the filling:

• 1 pound ground pork

• 4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and finely chopped

• ½ cup bamboo shoots, finely chopped

• 2 green onions, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• ½ teaspoon ground white pepper

Directions

• In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt for the crust. Gradually add the vegetable oil and water, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining the ground pork, chopped shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper in a separate bowl. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Divide the dough into small balls, approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin round wrapper, making sure to keep the edges slightly thicker.
• Place a spoonful of the pork filling onto the center of each wrapper. Gently gather and seal the edges, pleating and twisting them together to create an attractive pattern.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the mooncakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Optionally, you can brush the mooncakes with an egg wash for a glossy finish. This step is purely for aesthetic purposes and can be omitted if desired.
• Bake the mooncakes for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes are best enjoyed when served fresh out of the oven. Their fragrant aroma and melt-in-your-mouth crust make them irresistible, whether as a snack or a main course. Here are a few serving suggestions to make the most of these delectable treats:

1. Pair with a tangy dipping sauce: Accompany your mooncakes with a side of sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or chili sauce. The savory filling will harmonize beautifully with the contrasting flavors, adding an extra dimension to your culinary experience.
2. Serve with a light salad: For a refreshing twist, pair your Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes with a simple salad composed of mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this ensemble will provide a balanced meal.
3. Create a mooncake platter: Arrange a selection of both sweet and savory mooncakes on a platter for a visually stunning display. This allows your guests to savor a variety of flavors, catering to different palates and preferences.
4. Add a touch of fusion: If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate these savory mooncakes into fusion recipes. Consider using them as a bun substitute for a pork burger, or crumble them as a topping for Asian-inspired salads. Let your creativity run wild!
5. Freeze and reheat: Although best when fresh, you can also freeze your leftover mooncakes and reheat them later. Simply place the cooled mooncakes in an airtight container and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Conclusion

Incorporating traditional elements with a modern twist, Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes offer a unique and delicious culinary experience. The contrast of the flaky crust with the flavorful pork filling creates a beautifully balanced bite. Whether you’re celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival, hosting a dinner party, or exploring new flavors in the comfort of your own home, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

As with any recipe, don’t be afraid to add your own touch. Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as chicken, beef, or even vegetarian options. The mooncakes’ versatile nature allows for endless possibilities, limited only by your imagination.

Embrace the spirit of tradition and embark on a culinary journey with Suzhou Savory Pork Mooncakes. These delightful pastries will undoubtedly become a highlight of your homemade food adventures, providing a warm and unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones