I hail from Taiwan, a place I was introduced to the world, with roots extending to Manchuria, China, through my mother. She was a culinary artist, especially renowned for her pot stickers. Crafting each dumpling with a precision that bordered on ritualistic, she filled them with a hearty mix of beef, cabbage, onions, and garlic, offering them up either crisply fried or tenderly boiled. These delectable bites became a staple of my childhood, a dish I could never resist.
Our family’s journey took us between the vibrant Asian countries of Thailand, Cambodia, India and Taiwan. My childhood was filled with many Asian food delights. My aunt introduced the family to a restaurant in Taiwan that specialized in pot stickers, serving them in a myriad of flavors that quickly won me over. This eatery became a favorite spot, not just for its culinary delights but for the memories it brought back of my mother and aunt. To me, Taiwan will always be Formosa, a name as evocative of my homeland as it is of the tender emotions tied to these family bonds.
Savoring pot stickers is an experience transformed by the dipping sauce. My concoction blended ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, and garlic, creating a blend my favorite flavors, though my aunt preferred to add a touch of horseradish. This customization of sauces became a family hallmark, with each member having their chosen ingredients.
Despite Portland being home to numerous places where one can find pot stickers, Long Beach offers far fewer options, with most favoring pork over my preferred beef fillings.
This past weekend, I ventured to Formosa Bao, a new spot in Long Beach, drawn by the allure of their menu. I opted for a beef bao, a spicy chicken bao, and a serving of six beef pot stickers. To my delight, the pot stickers contained cabbage, an ingredient in my mother’s recipe. The meal was a profound journey back to the flavors of my childhood, with each bite of the beef pot stickers evoking memories of my mother’s loving preparation. While the offerings weren’t an exact replica of her creations, they were still delightful and full of deliciousness. A testament to the art of creating pot stickers.
Formosa Bao did more than feed me; it rekindled cherished memories of my heritage. My only regret was not ordering more, reminiscent of the times my mother would chide me for indulging by eating dozens of pot stickers, knowing well my insatiable love for her pot stickers. Her knowing smile of pride in her cooking in those moments is a treasure I hold dear.
Next time, I’m resolved to stock up on more pot stickers, for they are not just a meal but a bridge to the past, to the loving memories of my mother and the rich tapestry of my birthplace. Formosa Bao has become a sanctuary for those memories, a place where I can once again taste the love and care woven into every pot stickers. A testament to the art of making pot stickers.
Select the link for more information on Formosa Bao.
Surfside Washington News 