Asian Dumpling Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy

Asian dumplings are one of those delightful comfort foods that bring people together. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these little parcels of flavor have captured hearts worldwide.

Today, I’m excited to share a vegan Asian dumpling recipe that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Packed with fresh vegetables, savory seasonings, and wrapped in a tender dough, these dumplings are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based twist on a classic favorite.

Unlike traditional dumplings filled with meat, this vegan version uses a blend of mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu to create a satisfying texture and umami flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned dumpling maker or new to folding dumplings, this recipe will guide you through each step with clear instructions.

Plus, I’ll share tips on steaming, boiling, or pan-frying your dumplings to perfection. Get ready to impress friends and family with your homemade vegan dumplings that are bursting with Asian flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Asian dumpling recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence. Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional meat-filled dumplings without sacrificing any taste or texture.

The filling is packed with nutritious ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, and firm tofu, providing a wonderful balance of protein and fiber.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can steam, boil, or pan-fry the dumplings to suit your preference.

The homemade dough is soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing, making the whole process satisfying and fun. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping — make a batch, freeze them, and cook whenever you want a quick, delicious snack or meal.

Lastly, this recipe is a great introduction to Asian cooking techniques and flavors. You can customize the seasoning and dipping sauce to your liking, and it pairs wonderfully with other dishes like stir-fries or rice bowls.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love exploring our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for an easy sauce to complement your dumplings.

Ingredients

• For the dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
• For the dipping sauce:
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon minced green onion

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or vegetable chopper
• Large skillet or wok
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer (optional)
• Small bowl for dipping sauce
• Cooking brush (for oiling pan when pan-frying)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly add the warm water while mixing with a fork or chopsticks until the dough starts to come together.
2. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make the filling: While the dough rests, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and sauté the garlic, ginger, and green onions for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the napa cabbage and cook for another 3 minutes until wilted.
5. Add tofu and seasonings: Remove from heat and mix in the crumbled tofu, soy sauce, maple syrup, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let the filling cool.
6. Roll out the dough: Divide the dough into small, equal portions (about 20-24 pieces). Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a small disc with a rolling pin, about 3 inches in diameter.
7. Fill the dumplings: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the dough over the filling to make a half-moon shape, pinching the edges to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look or simply press firmly to close.
8. Cook the dumplings: Choose your preferred cooking method:
• Steaming: Arrange dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes.
• Boiling: Drop dumplings into boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, plus an additional 2 minutes.
• Pan-frying (potstickers): Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place dumplings flat side down and fry until bottoms are golden (3-4 minutes). Add 1/4 cup water, cover, and steam until water evaporates (about 6-7 minutes).
9. Prepare the dipping sauce: Mix all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
10. Serve: Arrange cooked dumplings on a plate and serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure to rest your dough well for a soft, pliable texture that’s easy to work with and won’t crack while folding.”

When chopping the filling ingredients, try to get them finely minced so the filling holds together nicely and cooks evenly inside the dumpling wrappers.

If you’d like to save time, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers. Just make sure they are vegan, as some may contain egg.

For a different flavor profile, try adding finely chopped water chestnuts for crunch or substituting tofu with tempeh for a nuttier taste. You can also add shredded carrot or bean sprouts to the filling for extra texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with dipping sauces! Our simple soy-vinegar sauce is a classic, but you can also try a peanut sauce or a spicy chili oil for more heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan Asian dumplings are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a starter with a fresh cucumber salad or a hot bowl of miso soup for a light meal.

They also pair wonderfully with stir-fried noodles or steamed jasmine rice to make a satisfying dinner.

For a fun party appetizer, arrange the dumplings on a platter with several dipping sauces such as soy-vinegar, spicy peanut, and sweet chili sauce. They’re great finger foods that everyone will love!

If you’re looking to explore more vegan-friendly dishes, check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe or try the delicious Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a sweet finish.

Conclusion

Making vegan Asian dumplings from scratch is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that brings the rich flavors of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself.

The process of preparing the dough, crafting the filling, and folding each dumpling is not only therapeutic but also a great way to engage with traditional culinary techniques.

Once you master this recipe, you’ll find countless ways to customize it with different fillings, cooking styles, and dipping sauces. Plus, it’s a fantastic plant-based comfort food that fits beautifully into any vegan lifestyle.

Don’t forget to explore other recipes in our collection to complement your dumpling feast, such as the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for dessert or the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for a sweet treat.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, homemade vegan dumplings!

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