As a symbol of wealth and prosperity, dumplings are central across Lunar New Year celebrations, amongst other rich traditions. This Lunar New Year, why not bring everyone together with a DIY dumpling station?

Dumplings have always been a labour of love. And now, thanks to the rise of the dumpling press, you can whip up dumplings in no time, but also let your guests customise their dumplings to suit their own palate. Guests can fill, fold, and steam their own dumplings in minutes.

From grandma down to the little ones, get everyone together for a fresh twist on tradition that’s perfect for sharing good fortune and a delicious meal. Set it up around the dining table, in the kitchen, or even outdoors if you’re celebrating under the stars. It’s festive, delicious, and sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ready to start folding? Follow our step-by-step guide to setting up a dumpling station for Lunar New Year!  

Step one: choose your station location 

First things first, choose a central area where everyone can gather comfortably – a kitchen counter, dining table, or even an outdoor area near the barbecue or a hot plate. Make sure there’s enough space for your guests to stand around while they assemble their dumplings. Lay out butchers paper for easy cleanup.

Step two: get the essentials ready

Here’s what you’ll need for your station set-up:

• Dumpling wrappers: store-bought options are the way to go for a time-saving solution.
• Fillings: offer a variety – think meat options that will best appeal to your guests, seafood, and a vegetarian mix. Pre-mix them with seasonings like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
• Dumpling press: for shaping and sealing (we got ours from Kmart for just $1.75)
• Small dishes of water: for sealing edges

Hot Tip: consider labelling each dish with a black marker on butchers paper. This way, your guests will know exactly what they’re creating!

Step three: prep the cooking station

If steaming, having a bamboo or metal steamer ready to go with boiling water nearby. If pan-frying, prep a non-stick pan with oil. Both methods can run simultaneously if you’re catering to preferences. Either way, be sure to keep the little kids at bay from this station.

Step four: add sauces and sides

Stock up on dipping sauces using common ingredients such as soy sauce, chilli oil, sesame dressing, vinegar or ponzu.

Your guests may also want to experiment with their own sauces, so chopped coriander, honey, minced garlic and ginger are some added options you may want to add to the final station.

As we welcome the Lunar New Year, what better way to celebrate than with a delicious dumpling party? Gather your loved ones and usher in the new year with a fun and social dining experience. With these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to hosting an amazing Lunar New Year celebration that's filled with laughter, love, and of course, plenty of dumplings!

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