Main content

Why we love dumplings

You say ‘kenkey’, I say ‘dim sum’. Where did dumplings really come from?

Dumplings feature prominently in cuisines around the world.

Some, like the Ghanaian kenkey, or the Irish dumpling, are balls of dough. But in many countries they’re filled with other ingredients.

From the Russian pelmeni, to the Japanese gyoza, for centuries we’ve been putting meat, vegetables or cheese in small pouches of pastry, and making delicious snacks.

So where did this idea originate? And are all these differently named dumplings connected?

Ruth Alexander explores the history of this humble comfort food and hears how different dumplings are made.

If you would like to get in touch with the programme, email thefoodchain@bbc.co.uk.

Presenter: Ruth Alexander.
Producers: Julia Paul and Rumella Dasgupta
(Image: Dumplings and bowls of dipping sauce. Credit: Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú)

Available now

27 minutes

Last on

Thu 14 Mar 2024 23:32GMT

Broadcasts

  • Thu 14 Mar 2024 04:32GMT
  • Thu 14 Mar 2024 11:32GMT
  • Thu 14 Mar 2024 18:32GMT
  • Thu 14 Mar 2024 23:32GMT

Food Chain highlights

Tea, coffee, spices, chillies ... snack on a selection of programme highlights

Podcast