During my first ICR meeting with Benny and Kwan (IACA volunteers), they brought the group Chinese potstickers. When I went up to try the dish, I asked, “Are these vegetarian?” Kwan chuckled at my question and said “They are always vegetarian.”
Throughout my upbringing, I have eaten a variety of potstickers at multiple chain restaurants. Some of my favorites have included Noodles and Company’s and Houlihan’s potstickers. Both of these chains have included meat in their wrappings, including pork and chicken. It had never crossed my mind that these potstickers were not authentic.
After eating the potstickers that Benny and Kwan brought, I noticed many differences between the two types. The dough on the outside of the authentic potstickers was much softer and delicate than ones I have tried in the past. Without meat, they possessed a strong flavor ofonion and other spices. I enjoyed this flavor as it was much different than anything I have tried in the past. Benny and Kwan mentioned that we will be going out to eat at other authentic restaurants. I am excited to try a new range of foods that I have not had that much exposure to before.
