In China, dumplings (饺子) originated from northern China and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, due to their unusual shape resembling ancient gold ingots. Traditionally, dumplings are made on the eve of Chinese new year, and a small coin is hidden inside one. Whoever finds the coin is said to have good fortune for the new year! This is particularly the case for ‘water dumplings’ (水饺) – those boiled in water rather than pan fried.

Another story about dumplings is that of Zhang Zhongjing, who made dumplings from mutton, chilli and herbs as a remedy against frost-bite. This legend explains why dumplings are traditionally folded into an ‘ear’ shape, as this was believed to help the ‘medicine’ target the ears!

There are actually many different types of dumplings originating from all across China – from the heavier meat-based dumplings in the North to Shanghai soup dumplings and lighter shrimp or vegetable variations in the South.