From ancient to modern times, the Chinese have celebrated an epicurean lifestyle, believing that food is not just meant to fill the stomach, but that an abundance of food denotes good fortune and that knowing what, and how, to eat is crucial to health.

From gnocchi to pierogi to wonton, the dumpling has become synonymous with comfort food around the world. Whether stuffed or unfilled, steamed or boiled, many countries have their own version of the dish. In this book, Barbara Gallani looks at the differences and similarities between the ways dumplings are prepared in a variety of cultures, addressing the contrast between the dumpling as an everyday meal and as a food for festive occasions. First examining the etymology of the word and examining just what makes a dumpling a dumpling, Gallani moves on to recount the many ways we have come to love this simple comfort food.

Yunnan, an exotic, mountainous land of former kingdoms which borders Tibet, Sichuan, Burma, Vietnam and Laos, is the most bio-diverse province in China. It is quite possibly the most beautiful part of the country, and also the most culturally rich. Each ethnic minority has its own distinct cooking ingredients, spices, aromas and flavors all brought together for the first time in this unique cookbook."