Every year for Valentine’s Day, Nathan and I try to figure out something special that we can do for dinner. Years ago, that entailed dressing up and going out to a nice restaurant. We’ve since learned that everyone and their mom goes out to a nice restaurant for Valentine’s Day making for crowded restaurants and a long wait for food. Sounds extra special, right? 😉
Nowadays you’ll find us scouring the grocery store for a fun protein to play with. Typically Nathan is in charge of preparing the majority of dinner and I handle dessert. One year we had filet mignon in a mushroom green pepper sauce with roasted fingerlings followed by blackberry cobbler and chocolate raspberry truffles. Another year we did a pan-seared whole duck with a cherry glaze, duck-fat pan-fried potatoes, and asparagus.. you get the idea.
As I was brainstorming for this years menu, I thought it would be really fun to experiment with homemade dim sum. Not only is it delicious, but it would be a great activity to do together! So, of course, I ran on over to Pinterest and found a bunch of recipes we can try.. for when we’re feeling brave 🙂
Dim Sum Valentine’s Date
Sweet and Spicy Soy-Glazed Edamame – Shared Appetite
This is a quick and easy recipe and you can munch on these bad boys while you’re making everything else!
Wonton Soup – Martha Stewart
Wonton soup. It’s just a staple.
Mango, Avocado, and Cucumber Spring Rolls – Cupcakes and Kale
A fun twist on a typical app. The mango will give it a slightly sweet flavor and the avocado will make it nice and creamy.
Asian Shrimp Dumplings – Dashing Dish
Dumplings or pot stickers are such an easy thing to do when you have wonton wrappers. Not to mention, I love this low cal option!
Pork, Ginger & Mushroom Shumai – What’s Cookin, Chicago?
A little bit more time consuming than the pot stickers above, but well worth the effort. These steamed dumplings are always full of flavor and this recipe looks to be on point!
Char Siu Bao (Barbecue Pork Steamed Buns) – Mike and Molly’s House
This would be the ultimate. If we’re feeling brave enough, I’d love to make everything from start to finish. The barbecue pork, the yeast dough.. homemade pork buns would take the cake.
Mango Pudding – Eating Well
You can’t skip dessert on Valentine’s Day. This mango pudding would be the perfect way to end the meal.
And, of course, don’t forget to pick up your favorite sake, some Tsingtao and have a wonderful date night! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Food for Thought
What are your plans for Valentine’s Day? Are you going out to dinner or staying in?
Barr & Table 