(This venue is closed.) Shui jiao usually don't look like much. These, filled with mutton (10 for $4.50), are typical; the pale boiled dumplings seem in desperate need of chili oil and vinegar. Only after biting through the thin skins do you discover for yourself how full of juicy flavor they are. Toward the end of your plateful, one of the variously filled steamed buns (about a dollar each) comes in handy; it's a waste not to sop up the spillage.
Also shown, in biteaway view: a more elaborately filled dumpling filled with cabbage, celery, and pork.
Best North Dumpling Shop
Inside the Friendship Shopping Plaza, 41-42A Main St. (41st Rd.-Sanford Ave.), Flushing, Queens
