If you’re craving a delicious, comforting dish that’s entirely plant-based, look no further than these best vegan dumplings. Dumplings are a beloved staple in many cultures, and with this recipe, you can enjoy their tender, flavorful goodness without any animal products.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, these dumplings deliver on taste, texture, and satisfaction.
Filled with a savory blend of fresh vegetables, tofu, and aromatic seasonings, these dumplings are perfect for steaming, pan-frying, or boiling. They make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or main course and pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces.
Plus, making these dumplings from scratch is easier than you might think! Let’s dive into why you’ll want to add this recipe to your collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan dumpling recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
You get a well-balanced filling that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, thanks to ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, and tofu. The dumpling wrappers are thin yet sturdy, offering the perfect bite every time.
Additionally, these dumplings are versatile—you can steam, boil, or pan-fry them to your preference, each method yielding a delightful texture. Making dumplings at home also allows you to customize fillings and sauces, so you can tailor the recipe to your taste buds.
It’s a fun cooking project that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.
For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes and Leche De Pantera Recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 cup firm tofu, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 30-40 round dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
- Water (for sealing dumplings and cooking)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, optional)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Grater (for carrots and ginger)
- Skillet or wok
- Steamer basket or pot with lid
- Small bowl for water (to seal dumplings)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Serving plate
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, and grate the carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, then sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add mushrooms and cabbage: Toss in the shiitake mushrooms and napa cabbage. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and any moisture has evaporated.
- Combine filling ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables back into the mixing bowl. Add grated carrot, chopped green onions, crumbled tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine.
- Prepare dumpling wrappers: Lay out your dumpling wrappers on a clean surface. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
- Fill and fold dumplings: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch to seal, creating pleats if desired for a classic look.
- Cook the dumplings: You can cook the dumplings in three ways:
- Steaming: Arrange dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes.
- Boiling: Drop dumplings into boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 4-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Pan-frying: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add dumplings and fry until bottoms are golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup water and cover immediately. Steam until water evaporates, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer cooked dumplings to a serving plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, chili oil, or a mix of soy sauce and rice vinegar.
Tips & Variations
“To prevent dumplings from sticking during cooking, make sure your cooking surface or steamer basket is well-oiled or lined with parchment paper.”
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers or substitute with rice paper wrappers.
- Change up the filling: Try adding finely chopped water chestnuts for crunch or substituting tofu with tempeh for a nuttier flavor.
- Prepare in advance: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
- Dipping sauce ideas: Mix soy sauce with a splash of lime juice and chopped fresh chili for a zesty sauce, or try a peanut dipping sauce for a creamy twist.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (6 dumplings) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 8g |
Carbohydrates | 24g |
Dietary Fiber | 4g |
Fat | 5g |
Sodium | 420mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan dumplings pair beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces. For a complete meal, serve them alongside steamed jasmine rice or a vibrant Asian-inspired salad like our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe.
You can also offer a trio of dipping sauces such as classic soy sauce, spicy chili oil, and a tangy ponzu.
For a heartier meal, consider serving these dumplings with a bowl of hot, comforting soup or alongside stir-fried vegetables using our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipes as a flavorful base. They also make fantastic party appetizers, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe for your next gathering!
Conclusion
Making the best vegan dumplings at home is a rewarding experience that brings delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients to your table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between traditional dumpling textures and plant-based goodness, ensuring that everyone will enjoy them regardless of dietary preference.
Plus, the versatility in cooking methods and fillings allows you to customize dumplings exactly how you like.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, these vegan dumplings are sure to impress. Don’t forget to explore more creative plant-based dishes like our Julie Marie Eats Recipes for even more inspiration.
Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your homemade vegan dumplings!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Dumpling Recipe
Description: Delicious homemade vegan dumplings filled with a savory mix of vegetables and tofu. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 24 dumplings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
- 1/2 cup crumbled firm tofu
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
Instructions
- Mix flour and warm water to form dough; knead until smooth and rest for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, tofu, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
- Roll dough into a long cylinder and cut into 24 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a thin circle about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Fold and pinch edges to seal dumplings.
- Heat a non-stick pan with a little oil over medium heat.
- Place dumplings in the pan and cook until bottoms are golden, about 2 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup water to the pan, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until water evaporates.
- Remove lid and cook an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp the bottoms.
- Serve hot with soy sauce or dipping sauce of choice.
Nutrition: Calories: 45 kcal per dumpling | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 1.5 g | Carbs: 6 g
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