Best Vegetarian Jiaozi Recipe for Delicious Homemade Dumplings

If you’re craving a delicious, comforting, and satisfying dumpling experience, this best vegetarian jiaozi recipe is exactly what you need. Jiaozi, also known as Chinese dumplings, are a beloved treat enjoyed across Asia and beyond.

Traditionally filled with meat, these vegetarian versions are packed with vibrant vegetables, tofu, and flavorful seasonings that will delight even the most devoted carnivores. Whether you’re celebrating Lunar New Year or just looking for a fun cooking project, making your own jiaozi from scratch is rewarding and fun.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through crafting the perfect dough, preparing a rich vegetable filling, and folding your dumplings like a pro. The result?

Soft, tender dumplings with a savory, umami-packed interior that’s sure to become a household favorite. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got an irresistible appetizer or main dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian jiaozi recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly customizable – you can swap veggies based on what’s fresh or in season.

The filling blends hearty mushrooms, crisp cabbage, and protein-packed tofu for a satisfying bite that’s full of texture and flavor.

Second, the recipe uses simple ingredients that you can find in most grocery stores, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Lastly, making jiaozi is a communal activity — perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties — and this recipe ensures everyone, including vegetarians, feels included in the celebration.

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
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated dried)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped firm tofu, pressed and drained
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for binding)
• For the Dipping Sauce:
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili oil or chili flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro or green onion

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or food processor for chopping
• Large skillet or non-stick pan
• Steamer basket or pot with steaming rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Small bowl for dipping sauce

Instructions

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly pour in the warm water, stirring with a fork or chopsticks until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the cabbage, mushrooms, grated carrot, tofu, green onions, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, white pepper, and cornstarch to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Roll out the dough: Divide dough into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll one portion into a long log about 1-inch thick. Cut into small pieces (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll each piece into a thin circle about 3 inches in diameter.
6. Fill the jiaozi: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to form a semicircle, then pinch the edges together firmly to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look.
7. Cook the dumplings: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Place dumplings flat side down and cook until bottoms are golden, about 2 minutes.
8. Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet, cover immediately with a lid, and steam the dumplings until the water evaporates and dumplings are cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
9. Serve: Transfer to a plate and serve warm with the prepared dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure to press and drain the tofu well to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which can make your dumplings soggy.”

Try mixing in other veggies like finely chopped bok choy, water chestnuts for crunch, or even diced sweet potato for a hint of sweetness. For a vegan option, substitute honey in dipping sauce with agave or maple syrup if you like a touch of sweetness.

To make these dumplings ahead, freeze them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by adding a couple extra minutes to steaming time.

For a different cooking method, boil the dumplings in salted water until they float, then let them cook for 2 more minutes before draining.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian jiaozi with a side of fragrant jasmine rice or a light Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal. Pair the dumplings with a bowl of warming soup, such as a classic Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe or a tangy broth-based Asian soup.

If you’re looking for a sweet finish after your dumpling feast, consider trying the delightful Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or indulge in a rich Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Conclusion

Making vegetarian jiaozi at home is an enjoyable culinary adventure that rewards you with a dish full of vibrant flavors and textures. This recipe balances fresh vegetables, tofu, and aromatic seasonings to create a filling that’s both nutritious and delicious.

The process of rolling and folding dumplings is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together, turning meal prep into a memorable event.

Whether you steam, pan-fry, or boil them, these jiaozi are a versatile comfort food that can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy them with a tangy dipping sauce or experiment with your own favorite condiments.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again for casual dinners, special occasions, or festive celebrations.

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