For many, the thought of homemade dumplings evokes a sense of warmth, family, and celebration. There’s something undeniably special about the process, from the rhythmic folding to the anticipation of that first savory bite. As a craftsman of handmade delights, I’m particularly drawn to the artistry and tradition woven into every dumpling.
This Lunar New Year, let’s explore the journey of Cathay Bi, founder of Dumpling Club, and her inspiring story of reconnecting with her heritage through the simple yet profound act of dumpling making. Along the way, we’ll uncover tips, tricks, and the cultural significance of this beloved culinary tradition.
A Culinary Journey Sparked by Tradition
Cathay’s passion for dumplings began at the age of nine, under the watchful eye of her grandfather in Hangzhou, China. He instilled in her the belief that dumplings were the pinnacle of culinary arts, a symbol of love and togetherness best shared during special occasions like Lunar New Year.
“He had this hierarchy of food,” Cathay recounts, “and he said that dumplings were the top of the hierarchy.” This simple statement resonated deeply, shaping her perception of food and its power to connect people.
From Tech Burnout to Dumpling Entrepreneur
Years later, feeling burnt out from the corporate world, Cathay turned to cooking as a source of solace and creative expression. A casual conversation with a friend sparked an idea: what if there was a better alternative to the mass-produced frozen dumplings found in supermarkets?
Driven by her passion and fueled by fond childhood memories, Cathay took a leap of faith and launched Dumpling Club. What began as a small operation delivering to 15 friends has blossomed into a thriving business, serving up thousands of handcrafted dumplings each week to the Bay Area community.
The Heart of Dumpling Club: Community and Connection
More than just a food business, Dumpling Club has become a symbol of community and shared experiences. Cathay’s dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and her ever-changing menu reflect her commitment to quality and creativity.
For Cathay, the true magic of dumplings lies in the process of making them together. “The main thing is understanding and appreciating how laborious it is—that’s why you do it together, because you can function well as a team,” she says.
This Lunar New Year, Dumpling Club is offering at-home dumpling-making kits, providing families with all the ingredients needed to recreate this cherished tradition. It’s an opportunity to bond, learn a new skill, and savor the satisfaction of creating something truly special by hand.
Crafting the Perfect Dumpling: A Labor of Love
Cathay’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From mastering the perfect dumpling dough to navigating the complexities of running a business, she’s learned valuable lessons along the way.
“It was this process I had to go through to really understand that there were only these three factors,” Cathay explains, referring to the balance between employee wages, ingredient costs, and overhead. “And I could only squeeze one of three things.”
Her commitment to ethical sourcing and creating a sustainable business model is evident in every aspect of Dumpling Club, showcasing the importance of thoughtful decision-making in the world of handmade crafts.
A Fusion of Flavors: Inspiration from Everywhere
One of the most delightful aspects of Dumpling Club is the sheer variety of flavors on offer. Drawing inspiration from her heritage, her team’s diverse backgrounds, and even her children’s preferences, Cathay isn’t afraid to experiment.
From classic pork and cabbage to innovative combinations like sweet potato and shiitake, there’s a dumpling for every palate. This Lunar New Year, Dumpling Club is introducing a luxurious brown butter, lobster, and shrimp dumpling – a testament to Cathay’s culinary creativity.
Embrace the Art of Dumpling Making
As Cathay’s story illustrates, the art of dumpling making goes beyond simply following a recipe. It’s about preserving traditions, connecting with loved ones, and embracing the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious by hand.
This Lunar New Year, why not gather your family and friends and embark on your own dumpling-making adventure? It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Have you ever tried making dumplings at home? Share your experiences and connect with fellow craft enthusiasts in the comments below. And for unique, handmade gifts perfect for any occasion, be sure to explore the exquisite collection on Robert Kline Art.