Boiled Vegetarian Dumpling Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Dumplings are a beloved comfort food across many cultures, and vegetarian dumplings bring a fresh, wholesome twist to this classic dish. Whether you’re a seasoned dumpling maker or a curious beginner, this boiled vegetarian dumpling recipe is easy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

Featuring a vibrant mix of vegetables wrapped in tender dumpling dough, these dumplings are perfect as a light meal, appetizer, or snack. They’re also a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies without compromising on taste.

What makes boiled dumplings so special is their delicate texture and ability to soak up dipping sauces, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile — you can customize the filling to your liking or dietary needs.

If you’re looking to impress friends and family with a homemade dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, this recipe is a must-try. Ready to start your dumpling adventure?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This boiled vegetarian dumpling recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients combined with simple cooking techniques. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire:

  • Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables and light seasoning, these dumplings are low in fat but high in flavor.
  • Gluten-friendly option: You can easily swap the dough for gluten-free wrappers to suit dietary preferences.
  • Easy to customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, tofu, or mushrooms to the filling.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick, wholesome meals later.
  • Delicious with various dips: From soy sauce to spicy chili oil, these dumplings pair beautifully with a variety of sauces.

Ingredients

  • For the Dumpling Dough:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • ¾ cup warm water
    • Pinch of salt
  • For the Filling:
    • 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
    • ½ cup grated carrots
    • ½ cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms (or any mushrooms)
    • ¼ cup chopped scallions (green onions)
    • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
    • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
    • ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
    • Salt to taste
  • For Boiling:
    • Water
    • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Optional for Dipping Sauce:
    • Soy sauce
    • Rice vinegar
    • Chili oil
    • Sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or vegetable grater
  • Chopping board
  • Large pot for boiling
  • Slotted spoon
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Small bowl for dipping sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring 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 towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Make the filling: While the dough rests, mix together the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, chopped mushrooms, scallions, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
  4. Season the filling: Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and a pinch of salt to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly.
  5. Roll out the dough: Divide the dough into small portions (about 20). Roll each portion into a small ball, then flatten into a thin round wrapper about 3 inches in diameter using a rolling pin.
  6. Fill the dumplings: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges tightly to seal. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look.
  7. Boil the dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Gently drop dumplings into the boiling water in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
  8. Cook until done: When dumplings float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain them.
  9. Serve warm: Arrange the boiled dumplings on a plate and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

“Perfect dumplings come from practice and patience. Don’t worry if your first batch isn’t perfect — the taste will always win hearts!”

  • Make-ahead: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Boil directly from frozen when ready to eat.
  • Veggie swaps: Try adding finely chopped spinach, tofu, or bean sprouts for a different texture.
  • Spice it up: Incorporate chili flakes or a dash of Szechuan pepper in the filling for a spicy kick.
  • Pan-fried option: After boiling, pan-fry dumplings in a little oil for a crispy texture and golden bottoms.
  • Gluten-free dough: Use a mix of rice flour and tapioca starch as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (5 dumplings)
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 3 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 400 mg

Serving Suggestions

Boiled vegetarian dumplings are wonderfully versatile and complement many dishes. Here are some ways to serve them:

  • As a starter with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil.
  • Alongside a bowl of hot and sour soup or miso soup for a comforting meal.
  • Paired with steamed rice and stir-fried greens for a filling lunch or dinner.
  • With a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi to add tangy contrast.

Looking for more delicious recipes to try? Check out this Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy pasta twist, or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

For a refreshing dessert, the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe is a perfect finish.

Conclusion

Making boiled vegetarian dumplings at home is a rewarding and enjoyable culinary experience. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of fresh vegetables and flavorful seasonings wrapped in tender dough, making it a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The process might seem intricate at first, but with a bit of practice, you’ll find it becomes second nature — plus, homemade dumplings always taste better than store-bought!

These dumplings are not only delicious but also adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs, making them a flexible addition to your meal planning. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress.

So grab your rolling pin, get your veggies ready, and enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.

📖 Recipe Card: Boiled Vegetarian Dumplings

Description: Delicious boiled dumplings filled with a savory mix of vegetables and tofu. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer.

Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup diced firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 20 round dumpling wrappers
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, tofu, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place a small spoonful of filling onto each dumpling wrapper.
  3. Fold the wrapper in half and seal the edges tightly.
  4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  5. Carefully add dumplings to boiling water.
  6. Cook dumplings until they float, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain.
  8. Serve hot with dipping sauce of choice.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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