CRYSTAL SKIN WRAPPERS
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Crystal skin wrappers are made from wheat starch. They are very thin and translucent, with a delicate texture resembling glass. Ideal for dumplings, they require steaming; their special composition lets them hold fillings without tearing. These wrappers need to be rolled thinly to ensure the fillings inside are visible, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
TRIVIA
Crystal skin wrappers may appear delicate, yet they possess surprising strength. These wrappers exhibit elasticity and resilience, allowing them to hold fillings without tearing. Additionally, these wrappers can be artfully folded into various shapes, enhancing the visual presentation of dishes. This shows that strength can be found beneath delicate exteriors.
DUMPLING WRAPPERS
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
They are thin and delicate wrappers designed to encase a variety of savory or sweet fillings. The dish can be steamed, pan-fried, deep-fried, or boiled to perfection. Additionally, the versatility of these wrappers allows them to be used in various cuisines beyond Chinese, like Italian ravioli or Japanese gyoza, definitely making them a popular choice.
TRIVIA
This kitchen ingredient can turn any filling into tasty dumpling, promoting sustainable cooking. The mild taste works well with various fillings, providing a creative way to use up extra ingredients or whenever you wish to have dumplings. And guess what? Dumpling wrappers; you can also use them as noodles, allowing for culinary experimentation.
EGG ROLL WRAPPERS
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Thicker than spring roll wrappers, the egg roll wrappers puff up when fried, giving them the distinctive appearance. They are commonly used to make egg rolls filled with a variety of ingredients. Additionally, their sturdiness makes them suitable for baking, allowing for a healthier alternative to frying while still achieving a crispy texture.
TRIVIA
The tale of the egg roll goes back to a Chinese dish where vegetables and meat were wrapped in an egg and sliced into roll-like pieces. The egg might have been replaced by the egg roll wrapper we know today. The egg roll wrapper itself, made with eggs, flour, and water, could also be the origin of the name.
FLAT RICE NOODLES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
They are thin, translucent, and made from rice flour, offering a chewy texture. They pair well with meats such as beef and seafood like shrimp. Additionally, these versatile noodles are a staple in many Asian dishes, including the popular Thai dish Pad Thai and Vietnamese Pho, showing their adaptability and flexibility across various cuisines.
TRIVIA
Flat rice noodles, in fact, do not contain gluten, which makes them an excellent option for individuals with gluten sensitivities. The rice noodles serve as a substitute for wheat-based noodles while absorbing flavors and allowing for various flavor pairings. The adaptability of flat rice noodles extends beyond just being a simple ingredient.
GLASS NOODLES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
They are thin, translucent, and made from rice flour, offering a chewy texture. They pair well with meats such as beef and seafood like shrimp. Known for their ability to absorb flavors well, glass noodles are also commonly used in hot pots and stir-fries, highlighting their adaptability across various cooking methods and cuisines.
TRIVIA
While their name might suggest otherwise, but glass noodles are not actually made from glass but rather from the starch of various plants like mung beans, potatoes, or from sweet potatoes. The name likely comes from their translucent appearance when cooked. They become transparent because the starch granules separate, allowing light to pass through.
GLUTINOUS RICE
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
With its high amylopectin content, glutinous rice becomes sticky when cooked. It’s a staple in both sweet and savory dishes, including zongzi, dim sum, and rice cakes. Additionally, glutinous rice is gluten-free, despite its name, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Furthermore, glutinous rice is often used in making rice flour.
TRIVIA
Glutinous rice, despite its name, is not actually glutinous! So, what gives it that sticky and delightful texture? The stickiness is a result of a starch known as amylopectin. This starch becomes compact when cooked, which gives rice its distinct texture. It’s not only sticky but also free of gluten, rich in protein, and versatile for both sweet and savory recipes.
GLUTINOUS RICE FLOUR
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Made from ground glutinous rice, it is a versatile ingredient commonly used in dumplings, pancakes, noodles, and as a thickening agent in soups and stews. Additionally, glutinous rice flour is a key component in many traditional Asian desserts and is valued for its ability to create a smooth, elastic dough that holds its shape well when cooked.
TRIVIA
Glutinous rice flour has been a staple in Asian skincare for many years. It has the ability to exfoliate dead skin cells, diminish dark spots, and acne scars, ultimately leading to a softer and smoother skin complexion. Additionally, it is rich in antioxidants that shield the skin from harm caused by the environment and enhance a radiant, youthful appearance.
HAND-PULLED NOODLES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
They are made by stretching and pulling the dough by hand into long, thin strands. They can vary in width and are known for their soft, spongy, and chewy texture. Additionally, the technique of hand-pulling creates a unique texture that absorbs flavors well, and the noodles are typically cooked quickly, retaining their tender yet resilient bite.
TRIVIA
Skilled chefs in Lanzhou, China, are able to stretch the dough by slapping it against the counter, possessing a distinct rhythm. This method of “dancing” helps to aerate the noodles, resulting in a light and fluffy texture while also providing a captivating sight for spectators. Mastering the art of turning flour and water into flavor requires years of dedicated practice.
PEKING DUCK PANCAKES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Also known as spring pancakes, they are thin, soft pancakes essential for enjoying Peking duck. Made from flour, hot water, and a pinch of salt, the dough must be prepared well to achieve the right texture. These pancakes should be soft, slightly chewy, and almost translucent. They are served warm, with slices of duck, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce.
TRIVIA
The pancake is incredibly versatile! The range of flavors these pancakes provide is truly delightful! Go beyond the traditional duck filling and let your imagination run wild with these delectable, thin pancakes. Whether you follow a vegetarian diet or you are a meat lover, fill the pancakes with your preferred ingredients. The possibilities are endless!
RICE STICK NOODLES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Also known as Yunnan rice noodles, they are chewy, spaghetti like noodles made from rice flour. These noodles are commonly used in stir-fried dishes and soups, absorbing flavors well and providing a satisfying bite. Besides their use in lot of traditional recipes, rice stick noodles are gluten-free, making them a suitable choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
TRIVIA
A rice noodle connects cultures and goes beyond being just a delicious dish. These rice threads represent various flavors in different cultures. But they are more than just tastes. These rice noodles are like Marco Polo in the food world; each bite is a passport to a new culinary journey, reminding us that good food knows no boundaries.
RICE VERMICELLI
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Rice vermicelli noodles are long, thin, and naturally gluten-free noodles made from rice flour and water. Known for their light and delicate texture, these noodles cook quickly and are commonly used in stir-fried dishes, soups, and salads. Their ability to absorb flavors while maintaining a slightly chewy texture makes them a versatile ingredient.
TRIVIA
Rice vermicelli, your new best friend for your diet, is here to change the world of noodles. It’s gluten-free and low in fat, perfect for those with sensitive stomachs or watching their weight. But don’t be fooled by it’s delicate appearance. These versatile strands absorb flavor like magic, becoming delicious stir-fries, light soups, and even noodle salads.
SPRING ROLL WRAPPERS
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
These wrappers are thin, translucent sheets made from all-purpose flour and water, essential for creating crispy spring rolls. They are delicate yet sturdy enough to encase a variety of fillings, both savory and sweet. After wrapping, the rolls are typically deep-fried until golden and crispy, resulting in a delicious appetizer or snack.
TRIVIA
Spring roll wrappers are really versatile as they can be used for both savory and sweet dishes. The wrappers can be used to make classic spring rolls, crispy turnovers, or crunchy soup toppers. If you have a sweet tooth, they can be used to make pineapple or banana stuffed rolls. Deep-frying them brings out their best, making them smooth and crispy.
WONTON NOODLES
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Made from flour, eggs, water, and lye water, wonton noodles resemble like angel hair pasta and are known for their firm, springy texture. Typically cooked al dente, they are often served in savory broth with wontons or can also be enjoyed dry, tossed with sauces, and paired with wontons or barbecued meats. The lye water gives a unique texture, and a yellow hue.
TRIVIA
Wonton noodles have traveled from Guangzhou’s bustling streets to our bowls. This traditional dish comes from the Qing Dynasty. It combines egg noodles and wontons in a tasty broth. Choy sum or Chinese broccoli also adds a refreshing contrast. This popular Cantonese dish has many variations with various toppings and garnishes.
WONTON WRAPPERS
VISUAL
OVERVIEW
Wonton wrappers, made from wheat flour, water, and eggs, are thin yet sturdy sheets used to encase fillings like meat, shrimp, or vegetables. They can be boiled, steamed, or fried, making them versatile for various cooking method and dishes. They are widely available in Asian grocery stores and can also be made at home for a fresher taste.
TRIVIA
Their simple appearance hides a world of culinary possibilities. These dough squares can be stuffed with a variety of fillings, baked or fried for different textures, used in countless recipes, and even baked into tiny vessels for appetizers. You can stuff them with savory meats and veggies, sweet ricotta and berries, or anything your imagination conjures.