Dumpling Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas to Try

Dumplings are a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide, and making them vegetarian opens up a world of delicious, healthy possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, crafting vegetarian dumplings from scratch can be a fun, rewarding kitchen adventure.

Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of umami, these dumplings offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that satisfy both the palate and the soul.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare tender dumpling wrappers and a flavorful vegetarian filling that’s perfect for steaming, pan-frying, or boiling. These dumplings make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or main course, and they pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces.

Plus, they’re customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.

If you love tasty vegetarian dishes, be sure to check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian dumpling recipe is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and simple preparation, making it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. The filling is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables such as cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots, offering a great source of fiber and antioxidants.

What sets these dumplings apart is their versatility — you can steam them for a soft bite, pan-fry for a crispy bottom, or boil them for a tender texture. The dough is easy to work with and requires minimal ingredients, perfect for home cooks who enjoy making food from scratch.

Plus, these dumplings freeze well, so you can prepare a batch in advance and enjoy a quick, homemade meal anytime. They’re also vegan-friendly if you opt for vegan wrappers or make your own without eggs.

Ingredients

• 200g all-purpose flour (for dumpling wrappers)
• 100ml warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for dough)
• 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for binding)
• Water for sealing dumplings

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or food processor (for chopping)
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
• Non-stick skillet (for pan-frying)
• Pot (for boiling)
• Brush or small bowl (for sealing with water)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with warm water and vegetable oil. Mix well until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the filling: While the dough is resting, combine the chopped napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, grated carrot, and green onions in a bowl. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. If the mixture feels too wet, stir in the cornstarch to help bind the filling.
3. Roll out the wrappers: Divide the rested dough into small equal pieces (about 20). On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin circle, roughly 3 inches in diameter. Try to keep the edges thinner than the center for easier folding.
4. Fill the dumplings: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of filling onto the center of each wrapper. Dip your finger in water and wet the edges of the wrapper. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal tightly. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look.
5. Cook the dumplings: Choose your cooking method:
   • Steaming: Place dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. Steam for 8-10 minutes until the wrappers turn translucent.
   • Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place dumplings flat side down and cook until the bottoms are golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Add 1/4 cup water, cover, and steam for another 5 minutes or until cooked through.
   • Boiling: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add dumplings in batches and cook for 4-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.
6. Serve: Serve the dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce mixed with rice vinegar and chili oil.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t overfill your dumplings to prevent them from bursting during cooking.”

For a different texture and flavor, try adding finely chopped tofu or cooked lentils to the filling. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as spinach, bok choy, or kale.

For gluten-free wrappers, consider using rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

If you want a little heat, add chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes to the filling. For an herby twist, toss in some chopped cilantro or mint.

Make extra dumplings and freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Cook from frozen by steaming or pan-frying with a little extra time.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian dumplings pair wonderfully with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a few drops of chili oil or sesame oil. You can also serve them alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a bowl of hot miso soup for a complete meal.

For a heartier option, enjoy the dumplings with steamed rice and sautéed greens. They also make a delightful appetizer at gatherings or a fun snack for movie nights.

If you’re interested in more vegetarian meal ideas, don’t miss our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

Making vegetarian dumplings at home is an enjoyable and satisfying culinary experience that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients in a delicious package. From the tender dough to the savory veggie filling, every bite is a testament to the versatility and nutrition of plant-based cooking.

This recipe is perfect for cooks who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen or anyone looking for a comforting meal that’s both healthy and tasty. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create dumplings that rival those from your favorite restaurant.

Remember, dumplings are endlessly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to explore different fillings and cooking methods. For more creative vegetarian recipes, explore our collection including the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

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