Best Vegan Dim Sum Recipe for Delicious Plant-Based Bites

Dim sum is a beloved tradition in many cultures, known for its variety of bite-sized delicacies that bring friends and family together. But what if you want to enjoy this flavorful feast without any animal products?

This best vegan dim sum recipe is your answer to those cravings. Combining fresh vegetables, tofu, and aromatic spices wrapped in delicate dough, these vegan dim sum bites deliver authentic taste and texture that even non-vegans will love.

Whether you’re a seasoned dumpling maker or trying dim sum at home for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Get ready to fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and create a spread that’s perfect for sharing at any gathering or as a wholesome snack!

With a rich filling and a tender wrapper, these vegan dim sum treats are steamed to perfection, making them light yet satisfying. Plus, they’re fully customizable, so you can swap ingredients based on preference or what’s in your pantry.

Dive in and discover how easy and delicious plant-based dim sum can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan dim sum recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Asian favorite without compromising your dietary choices. It’s:

• Plant-powered: Uses wholesome vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms for rich umami flavor.
• Deliciously authentic: The seasoning and fillings mimic classic dim sum with a vegan twist.
• Customizable: Easily swap fillings or spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for sharing: Bite-sized and fun to eat, great for parties or family meals.
• Healthy and light: Steamed instead of fried, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

• For the dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup boiling water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• For the filling:
• 200g firm tofu, crumbled
• 1 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
• 1 cup shredded napa cabbage
• ½ cup grated carrot
• 3 green onions, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (check vegan status)
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• ½ tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Salt to taste
• Dipping sauce: soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan (optional for sautéing filling)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Small bowl of water (for sealing dumplings)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: Place the flour in a large mixing bowl. Carefully add the boiling water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
2. Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
4. Make the filling: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
5. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add shiitake mushrooms and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
7. Mix in the crumbled tofu, napa cabbage, carrot, and green onions, stirring well.
8. Add soy sauce, hoisin, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt to taste.
9. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the filling and stir until it thickens slightly and binds the mixture. Remove from heat and let cool.
10. Shape the dim sum wrappers: Divide the rested dough into small equal portions (about 20 pieces).
11. Roll each piece into a small ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten into thin circles approximately 3 inches in diameter.
12. Assemble the dim sum: Place about 1 tbsp of filling in the center of each dough circle.
13. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the dough to help seal.
14. Fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape, pinch the edges tightly and pleat if desired to create a traditional dumpling look.
15. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
16. Steam the dim sum: Line your steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
17. Arrange dumplings in the steamer, leaving space between them.
18. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes until the dough is tender and filling is hot.
19. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips & Variations

To keep your dim sum wrappers soft and pliable, cover rolled dough circles with a damp cloth while working.

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for dumplings.
• Fillings: Try adding finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch.
• Cooking method: Instead of steaming, you can pan-fry the dumplings (potstickers style) for a crispy bottom.
• Storage: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray, then transfer to a bag to steam later.
• For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of rice wine or mirin to the filling.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan dim sum bites are delightful on their own or paired with a variety of sides. Serve with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for extra heat.

They also go wonderfully alongside stir-fried greens, steamed jasmine rice, or a fresh cucumber salad.

For a full Asian-inspired feast, consider pairing this recipe with other vegan dishes like the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe or the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan version). And if you love making your own dough, check out the Magic Dough Recipe for more versatile dough ideas.

Conclusion

Making vegan dim sum at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings authentic flavors and wholesome ingredients to your table. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the tender, slightly chewy wrappers to the savory, well-seasoned filling.

Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just curious to try plant-based Asian cuisine, these dumplings are sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an impressive spread that rivals your favorite dim sum restaurant. Plus, the recipe’s adaptability means you can experiment with fillings and flavors to make it uniquely yours.

Don’t hesitate to share this dish with friends and family—dim sum is all about enjoyment and connection. Happy cooking and happy eating!

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