Chinese Vegetarian Steamed Dumpling Recipe Made Easy

Steamed dumplings are a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for their delicate wrappers and flavorful fillings. For those seeking a wholesome, meat-free option, Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings offer a perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

These delightful parcels are packed with a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and traditional seasonings, all wrapped in a tender dough that steams to perfection. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner looking to explore Asian cuisine, this recipe will guide you through creating authentic, mouthwatering vegetarian dumplings that can rival any restaurant’s offering.

Not only are these dumplings a fantastic appetizer or snack, but they’re also a wholesome treat that showcases the vibrant flavors and textures of vegetables in a gentle, steamed form. Plus, they’re highly customizable, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.

Dive into this recipe and discover how easy and rewarding it is to make your own Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings are a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent dish. They’re low in fat, packed with nutrients, and bursting with fresh flavors.

Making dumplings from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality, free from preservatives and additives often found in store-bought versions.

These dumplings also make for a fun cooking project that can be enjoyed solo or with family and friends. The process of folding and shaping each dumpling is a satisfying, creative experience.

Plus, the steamed cooking method keeps the dumplings light and fluffy while preserving the crunch and sweetness of the vegetables inside.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian entrée, a party appetizer, or a comforting snack, these dumplings are versatile and delicious. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser in no time!

Ingredients

• For the dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 1 cup finely shredded Napa cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated dried)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green parts only)
• 1/4 cup finely minced firm tofu
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or mandoline (for chopping vegetables)
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
• Large pot or wok (to hold steamer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Spoon or small spatula (for filling dumplings)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring with a fork or chopsticks until the dough starts to come together.
2. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the filling: While the dough rests, place the shredded Napa cabbage in a bowl with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture, then squeeze out the liquid thoroughly.
4. Combine filling ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the squeezed cabbage, chopped shiitake mushrooms, grated carrot, scallions, minced tofu, garlic, and ginger. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
5. Roll out the dough: After resting, divide the dough into small equal pieces (about 24). Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten with your palm. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter. Try to make the edges slightly thinner than the center.
6. Fill the dumplings: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to avoid breaking the dough.
7. Seal the dumplings: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together, pleating as you go, to seal the dumpling securely.
8. Prepare the steamer: Line the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dumplings with a small space between each to allow for expansion during steaming.
9. Steam the dumplings: Fill a pot or wok with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Place the steamer basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam the dumplings for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough becomes translucent and the filling is cooked through.
10. Serve hot: Carefully remove the dumplings from the steamer and serve immediately with soy sauce, chili oil, or your preferred dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To prevent the dough from drying out while working, keep the unused dough balls covered with a damp kitchen towel.

Variation: For a different flavor profile, try adding finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the filling for extra crunch.

Tip: If you want to speed up the process, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers, but making your own dough yields the best texture.

Variation: Experiment with dipping sauces—mix soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a tangy complement, or add minced garlic and chili flakes for extra heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings with a variety of dipping sauces such as a classic soy sauce and vinegar mix or a spicy chili oil for an extra kick. Pair them with a light soup like hot and sour or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the meal.

For a fuller Asian-inspired meal, consider side dishes like steamed greens, fried rice, or spring rolls. If you enjoy homemade vegetable dishes, you might also want to try our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a comforting vegetable side or explore some creative dessert options like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to finish your meal on a sweet note.

Conclusion

Making Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. With simple, fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create dumplings that are both delicious and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving a comforting snack, these dumplings are sure to delight.

Beyond being tasty, this recipe encourages you to explore your creativity in the kitchen, from experimenting with fillings to perfecting your folding technique. Don’t hesitate to pair these dumplings with other dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

For more flavorful recipes and cooking inspiration, check out our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the tangy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your homemade Chinese vegetarian steamed dumplings!

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