Bhutanese Buckwheat Dumplings with Turnip Greens
Hoentay
Hoentay are traditional Bhutanese dumplings made with a buckwheat flour dough, filled with a savory mixture of turnip greens, cheese, and aromatics. They are typically steamed and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Buckwheat flour
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- approx. 1 cup Warm water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Turnip greens(finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 cup Cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese(crumbled)
- 1/4 cup Chives(finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- 2
While the dough rests, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add chopped turnip greens and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
- 3
In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, feta cheese, and chives. Add the cooled turnip green mixture and stir to combine. Season with black pepper.
- 4
Divide the rested dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pleat the edges to seal, forming dumplings.
- 5
Arrange the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves, ensuring they don't touch. Steam over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 6
Serve hot with a spicy dipping sauce (like Bhutanese chili sauce, Azey).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the dough is not too sticky; add more flour if needed.
- ✓Don't overfill the dumplings to prevent them from breaking.
- ✓Buckwheat flour can be difficult to find; check Asian markets or specialty stores.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use spinach or other leafy greens if turnip greens are unavailable.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for extra spice.