Dumpling: meaning, definitions and examples

Culinary Traditions

• Dumplings are popular in many cultures, from Chinese jiaozi to Italian ravioli, showcasing diverse fillings and cooking methods.
• In some cultures, dumplings symbolize wealth and prosperity, especially during celebrations and festive occasions.
• There are over 300 varieties of dumplings found throughout different regions of the world, each with unique flavors and textures.

Etymology

• The word 'dumpling' is believed to have originated from the 17th-century word 'dump,' meaning to thump or lump.
• In German, the term 'knödel' refers to bread or potato dumplings, demonstrating how languages have their own variations for similar foods.
• Historical records suggest that dumplings have been consumed since at least the 4th century, indicating their long-standing popularity.

Cultural Significance

• In Jewish culture, matzo balls are dumplings traditionally served during Passover, symbolizing comfort and community.
• In the Philippines, 'siomai' is a type of dumpling often enjoyed as street food, illustrating their role in everyday life and social gatherings.
• The Chinese New Year often features dumplings as a food representing good fortune, and families gather to make them together.

Science and Technology

• The process of making dumplings involves physical chemistry, where the dough's gluten proteins form a stretchy structure when kneaded.
• Recent studies have shown that steaming is a healthier cooking method for dumplings, preserving more nutrients compared to frying.
• In modern food science, the filling of dumplings is analyzed for taste and texture to optimize recipes in both home cooking and commercial production.

Pop Culture

• Dumplings appear in various films and TV shows, often symbolizing comfort or nostalgia in family gatherings.
• In video games, dumplings sometimes provide health boosts, showing their popularity as a ‘power food’ among characters.
• Cookbooks focused on dumplings have surged in popularity, reflecting a global trend in home cooking as people explore diverse cuisines.

This word's position of #33,704 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33701 cauterized
• 33702 outflank
• 33703 initializing
• 33704 dumpling
• 33705 duodecimo
• 33706 booed
• 33707 emo
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