What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade dumplings is easier than you might think, and the results are totally worth it. You’ll love how customizable and flavorful they are, perfect for your next cozy meal or family gathering.
First, the dough comes together with just a few simple ingredients, and it’s surprisingly fun to knead and roll out. Next, the filling options are endless—swap in your favorite meats, veggies, or spices to make it your own. Finally, there’s nothing better than the smell of freshly steamed or pan-fried dumplings filling your kitchen!
Recipe
Homemade dumplings are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. This recipe guides you through making soft, flavorful dumplings from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup finely chopped vegetables (cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup ground meat (pork, chicken, or beef)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, combine vegetables, ground meat, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the dumplings: Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold the dough over, and seal the edges by pleating or pressing firmly.
- Cook the dumplings: Boil water in a pot and add dumplings. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they float to the surface. Alternatively, pan-fry them until golden brown and crispy.
Notes:
- Make certain the dough is thin but not torn to prevent filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients for variety.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Pot or frying pan
Time:
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Chinese
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Dumplings are a delicious and nutritious dish, packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade dumplings with a simple dipping sauce, like soy sauce mixed with vinegar and chili oil, because it adds a punch of flavor. Steamed veggies or a fresh cucumber salad make great side dishes that balance the meal perfectly. You can’t go wrong with rice or noodles, either—they’re hearty and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Dipping Sauce Pairings
While dumplings are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right dipping sauce can take your meal to the next level. I love mixing soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a classic, tangy dip. If you like heat, try adding chili oil or sriracha—it’s my go-to when I want a spicy kick. For something creamy, blend sesame paste with a bit of garlic and water. Don’t be afraid to experiment! The best part is finding your perfect combo, whether it’s sweet, salty, or fiery. Happy dipping!
Side Dish Suggestions
Since dumplings are often the star of the meal, it’s nice to round things out with sides that complement their rich flavors. I love pairing them with a simple cucumber salad—tangy and invigorating, it balances the dumplings’ richness. Steamed or stir-fried greens, like bok choy or spinach, add a healthy touch and a pop of color. For something heartier, fried rice or garlic noodles work wonders, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. Don’t forget a bowl of hot and sour soup—it’s cozy and familiar, perfect for dipping dumplings in. These sides make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight.
