Vegan Dumplings Recipe: How to Make Perfect Plant-Based

Vegan dumplings are a delicious and versatile dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures in one satisfying bite. Whether steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, these dumplings are packed with a savory filling of fresh vegetables and plant-based ingredients, making them a wholesome choice for appetizers, main courses, or even snacks. Perfect for dumpling lovers who follow a vegan lifestyle, this recipe provides step-by-step instructions for crafting dumplings that rival any restaurant offering.

This recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to use your favorite veggies or experiment with different seasonings. Dumplings are a staple in many cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, and this vegan version is a tribute to their deliciousness without compromising on flavor or ethics.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Asian
• Course: Appetizer / Main Course
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Active Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~150 kcal per serving

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Dumpling press (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Skillet with lid (for pan-frying)
• Bamboo steamer or steamer basket (for steaming)
• Pot (for boiling)

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup hot water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
• Water (for steaming or boiling)

For Serving:

• Soy sauce or tamari
• Chili oil or hot sauce (optional)
• Rice vinegar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually pour in the hot water while stirring with a wooden spoon or chopsticks until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the vegetable oil and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add a teaspoon of vegetable oil.
2. Sauté the ginger and garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and scallions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their moisture.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dumpling Wrappers

1. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a log and cut it into 10 small pieces (40 pieces total).
2. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a small disc with a rolling pin, about 3 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Place a wrapper in the palm of your hand and spoon 1 teaspoon of filling into the center.
2. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges together to seal, creating pleats if desired.
3. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Option 1: Pan-Fried Dumplings

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in the skillet and cook until the bottoms are golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet, cover, and steam the dumplings for 5-6 minutes until the water evaporates.

Option 2: Steamed Dumplings

1. Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.
2. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, making sure they don’t touch.
3. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes.

Option 3: Boiled Dumplings

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the dumplings in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they float to the surface.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

Tips and Variations

• Customizable Filling: Swap out the mushrooms for tofu, or add finely chopped spinach for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the wrappers.
• Storage: Uncooked dumplings can be frozen on a tray, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen without thawing.
• Dipping Sauce: Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes for a quick dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Making vegan dumplings at home is not only satisfying but also a fun culinary adventure. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that is as comforting as it is nutritious. Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a cozy dinner, these dumplings are a must-try for anyone who loves plant-based cuisine.