Dinner with friends. The perfect night in.Our night started early, time for everyone to gather and make dinner together: in one corner was the dumpling station, J using four folds in hers for a rustic look, M creating precise pleats just like a professional. Both learnt how to fold dumplings from their mother. They attempt to teach the rest of us with limited success. We laugh amidst the struggle.
At the counter are V and X, both folding spring rolls. In a wok on the stove sits a soy glazed Shanghai duck, slowly simmering in a bath filled with star anise, green onions and ginger. The smell is intoxicating. So is the happy buzz of conversation.
Before too long there's a feast on the table and a huddle of hungry friends. Drinks are poured, sauces are swapped, and dishes are passed from hand to hand. And for only a brief moment, whilst our mouths are full, is there the sound of contemplative but contented silence.
Jiaozi dumplings ready for cooking
King prawn parcels tied with hokkien noodle
Boiled dumplings
Spring rolls
Pan-fried dumplings
Shanghai soy duck
Original source: http://grabyourfork.blogspot.com/2008/09/dinner-with-friends.html
