There’s something magical about biting into a soft, pillowy dumpling and discovering a burst of flavor inside. Our pea dumpling recipe brings a fresh twist to this beloved classic, combining the sweetness of peas with aromatic spices for a filling that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion.
Pea dumplings have roots in various cuisines, celebrated for their simplicity and versatility. Whether steamed, pan-fried, or boiled, they’re a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce or elevate your weeknight dinner. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re new to dumpling-making.
Pea Dumpling Recipe
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything we need to make these soft and aromatic pea dumplings:
- 1 cup frozen peas, blanched and drained
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying (optional, if pan-frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, for dipping
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup warm water, for the dough
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually pour in warm water while mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Pea Filling
- In a food processor, blend the blanched peas, sesame oil, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Add cornstarch and pulse to combine. This helps hold the filling together during cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill in the fridge while preparing the wrappers.
Step 3: Roll the Wrappers
- Divide the dough into small balls, around 1-inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball into a thin circle (3 inches in diameter) on a lightly floured surface. Aim for evenly thin wrappers to ensure they cook properly.
Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings
- Place 1 teaspoon of pea filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Gently fold the wrapper in half over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Use your fingers or a fork to create a decorative edge.
- Make sure the dumplings are fully sealed to avoid leakage.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings
You have several options for cooking these versatile pea dumplings:
| Cooking Method | Instructions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Steaming | Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes. | Soft and tender dumplings. |
| Pan-Frying | Heat vegetable oil in a pan, cook until the bottoms turn golden, then add a splash of water and cover until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). | Crispy bottoms with soft tops. |
| Boiling | Drop the dumplings into a pot of boiling water. Cook until they float, then simmer for an additional 2 minutes. | Light and chewy texture. |
Step 6: Serve
- Arrange the pea dumplings on a platter.
- Serve hot with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Ingredients
Creating these delicious pea dumplings requires just a few easy-to-find ingredients. Follow this guide to achieve the perfect flavor and texture.
For The Dumpling Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup water (warm, not hot)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For The Pea Filling
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced (white and green parts)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For Serving (Optional)
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Chili oil
- Vinegar-based dipping sauce
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
This sorted ingredient list ensures we’re ready to jump into crafting the perfect pea dumplings.
Tools And Equipment Needed
To prepare these delicious pea dumplings, we need a set of essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools will make the process smoother, ensuring the dumplings turn out perfectly every time. Here’s a list of what we need:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl to mix and knead the dumpling dough.
- Rolling Pin: Used to roll out the dough into thin wrappers.
- Knife or Dough Cutter: For evenly dividing the dough into smaller portions.
- Wooden Chopping Board or Pastry Mat: Provides a non-stick surface for rolling out the dumpling wrappers.
- Spoon or Small Scoop: To distribute the pea filling neatly onto the wrappers.
For Cooking Dumplings
- Steamer Basket/Pot: Ideal for steaming the dumplings for a soft and tender texture.
- Non-Stick Skillet: Perfect for pan-frying the dumplings to give them a crispy bottom.
- Large Pot: For boiling dumplings, if using the boiling method.
Miscellaneous Tools
- Silicone Brush: To apply water to the dough edges when sealing the dumplings.
- Tongs: Useful for handling hot dumplings during cooking and serving.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements to maintain consistency.
Quick Reference Table
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | To prepare and knead dumpling dough |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling out thin wrappers |
| Steamer Basket | Cooking the dumplings through steaming |
| Non-Stick Skillet | Pan-frying the dumplings for crispiness |
| Large Pot | Boiling the dumplings |
| Knife or Dough Cutter | Dividing dough into even portions |
| Measuring Tools | Ensuring accurate ingredient measurements |
Having all these tools ready before we begin will make preparing our pea dumpling recipe a fuss-free and enjoyable experience. With just a bit of organization, we can focus on the rewarding process of shaping and cooking these delightful dumplings.
Directions
Let’s dive into the exciting process of making these pea dumplings. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this delightful dish to life.
Step 1: Prep the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add 3/4 cup of warm water while stirring with a fork or chopstick until the dough begins to come together.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting step allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll.
Step 2: Prepare the Pea Filling
- In a food processor, combine:
- 2 cups of thawed frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse, slightly chunky paste. Avoid over-processing—it’s nice to keep some texture in the filling for a bite.
- Taste the mixture and adjust salt or additional seasoning as needed.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, stir in a small amount of bread crumbs to bind it.
Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings
- Divide the rested dough into 4 equal parts, then roll one portion into a thin log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each dough piece into a small ball, then flatten it slightly. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper approximately 3 inches in diameter.
- Place 1–1.5 teaspoons of the pea filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Fold the wrapper in half, pinching the edges together to seal. For added aesthetics and a secure seal, pleat the edges or crimp them firmly with your fingers.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling. Keep the assembled dumplings covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
We can cook these dumplings using one of three methods: steaming, boiling, or pan-frying.
| Cooking Method | Instructions | Final Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Steaming | Arrange dumplings in a greased steamer basket. Steam for 10–12 minutes over boiling water. | Soft and tender with slightly firm dough. |
| Boiling | Gently drop dumplings into a pot of salted boiling water. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they float. | Silky and delicate with moist interiors. |
| Pan-Frying | Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add dumplings, fry bottoms until golden, then add 1/4 cup water and cover. Steam-fry for 6–7 minutes. | Crispy bottoms with chewy dough and juicy filling. |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing pea dumplings ahead of time is a fantastic way to save effort during busy days and still enjoy a freshly cooked meal. Below, we’ll explore the strategies for making both the dumpling dough and the pea filling in advance, as well as tips for properly storing and freezing the assembled dumplings to maintain their taste and texture.
1. Making the Dough Ahead
The dumpling dough can be easily prepared in advance and stored for later use.
- Refrigeration: Wrap the kneaded dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let the dough come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before rolling and shaping.
- Freezing the Dough: For longer storage, divide the dough into portions, wrap each portion in plastic, and seal them in a freezer bag. The dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before using it.
2. Preparing the Pea Filling Ahead
The pea filling can also be made ahead for time-saving convenience.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the prepared filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2–3 days. Stir the mixture well before use to redistribute any excess moisture.
- Freezing the Filling: Store the filling in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator for several hours and pat dry with paper towels if needed before filling the dumplings.
3. Assembling and Freezing Dumplings
Freezing assembled dumplings is an excellent option for meal prep, as they can be cooked straight from the freezer.
Steps for Freezing Dumplings:
- Place freshly assembled dumplings on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Freeze for 2–3 hours or until they are firm.
- Transfer the frozen dumplings into a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date for reference.
| Storage Method | Storage Location | Maximum Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough – Refrigerated | Refrigerator | 24 hours | Return to room temp before rolling. |
| Dough – Frozen | Freezer | 1 month | Divide and wrap into portions before freezing. |
| Filling – Refrigerated | Refrigerator | 2–3 days | Stir well before use; adjust moisture if necessary. |
| Filling – Frozen | Freezer | 1 month | Thaw and pat dry before use in dumplings. |
| Dumplings – Frozen | Freezer | 1 month | Cook directly from frozen using preferred method. |
4. Cooking Frozen Dumplings
You don’t need to thaw frozen dumplings before cooking. Here’s how to cook them directly from frozen:
- Steaming: Add an extra 2–3 minutes to the steaming time.
- Boiling: Boil until the dumplings rise to the top, then cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Pan-Frying: Cook in the same way as fresh dumplings but allow 2–3 extra minutes during the steaming step after adding water to the skillet.
With these simple Make-Ahead Instructions, you can enjoy the convenience of having homemade pea dumplings ready to go while preserving their vibrant flavor and delightful texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pea dumplings are incredibly versatile, and presenting them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are our favorite serving suggestions to bring out the best in these flavor-packed dumplings:
Pairing with Dipping Sauces
A good dipping sauce adds depth to the pea dumplings. Here are a few easy options you can prepare or purchase:
- Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil Blend: Mix 3 tablespoons of soy sauce with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for a simple, savory dip.
- Chili Oil Sauce: Add a drizzle of spicy chili oil to soy sauce for a heat-filled punch.
- Vinegar-based Dipping Sauce: Combine equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar, then add minced garlic and a pinch of sugar for a tangy balance.
To customize, garnish your dipping sauce with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or a hint of freshly ground black pepper.
Side Dish Inspirations
Pairing pea dumplings with a light side dish completes the meal. Some complementary options include:
- Steamed Vegetables: Crisp steamed broccoli, carrots, or bok choy provide a refreshing contrast.
- Asian Noodle Salad: Toss cold noodles with a sesame-ginger dressing for a flavorful bite alongside the dumplings.
- Miso Soup: A comforting bowl of warm miso soup is the perfect choice to round out the meal.
Garnishes for Extra Flavor
Enhance the presentation of the dumplings by topping them with garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions add a pop of color and herbal freshness.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- A few drops of infused oils (try truffle oil or garlic oil) can bring an elevated aroma.
Serving Size Guide
Below is a quick reference table to guide you on serving sizes:
| Number of Dumplings | Meal Type | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 dumplings | Appetizer | Serve with dipping sauce only |
| 10-12 dumplings | Light Meal | Pair with a side salad or soup |
| 12-15 dumplings | Main Meal | Include sides and additional garnish |
Beverage Pairings
To complement the sweet and aromatic pea filling, we recommend:
- Green Tea: A cup of warm green tea adds a soothing counterpoint to the dumplings.
- Light White Wine: Pair with a glass of subtle, fruity wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Sparkling Water: Infuse with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
With these serving suggestions in mind, your pea dumplings are ready to be enjoyed as an elegant appetizer, a light meal, or a full-course culinary delight.
Conclusion
Pea dumplings bring a delightful mix of flavor, texture, and creativity to our kitchens. Whether we’re preparing them for a casual snack or an elegant gathering, they never fail to impress. With their versatility and ease of preparation, these dumplings are a fantastic addition to our cooking repertoire.
By exploring different cooking methods, dipping sauces, and pairings, we can tailor the experience to suit any occasion. Let’s embrace the joy of crafting these homemade treats and share the satisfaction of a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pea dumplings unique?
Pea dumplings stand out for their sweet, aromatic filling made from peas, offering a refreshing twist on traditional dumplings. Their versatility in cooking methods—steaming, boiling, or pan-frying—makes them a perfect choice for any occasion.
Can beginners make pea dumplings at home?
Yes, pea dumplings are beginner-friendly! The recipe includes simple, step-by-step instructions for preparing the dough, filling, and assembling the dumplings, ensuring an easy and enjoyable cooking experience.
What ingredients are needed for pea dumplings?
Key ingredients include frozen peas, all-purpose flour, seasonings, and optional dipping sauce components. A full ingredients list is provided in the recipe for clarity.
What cooking methods can be used for pea dumplings?
Pea dumplings can be steamed for a soft texture, boiled for a comforting dish, or pan-fried for a crispy finish, giving you flexibility to suit your preferences.
How should I serve pea dumplings?
Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Popular choices include soy sauce with sesame oil, chili oil sauce, or vinegar-based dips. Pair with side dishes like steamed vegetables, Asian noodle salad, or soup for a complete meal.
Can I prepare the dough or filling ahead of time?
Yes, the dough and pea filling can be prepared in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day to save time during assembly.
Are there any beverage pairings for pea dumplings?
Pair pea dumplings with green tea, a light white wine, or sparkling water to enhance their sweet and aromatic flavor. These beverages complement the dish without overpowering it.
How many pea dumplings should I serve per person?
The serving size depends on the meal type. For appetizers, 3-5 dumplings per person suffice, while 8-10 dumplings make a light meal. Adjust based on your guests’ appetites.