Veg

Crispy Vegetarian Fried Dumplings Recipe

Name: Crispy Vegetarian Fried Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 packet (50-60 count) round dumpling wrappers; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup water (for steaming); For the Filling:; 200g firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled; 2 cups finely shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup grated carrot; 2 spring onions, finely chopped; 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp white pepper; For the Dipping Sauce:; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

By Recipe Heaven Kitchen17 Mar 20260

Prep40 min

Cook15 min

Servings4

DifficultyEasy

Learn how to make crispy and flavorful vegetarian fried dumplings (Potstickers) from scratch! This Chinese snack is packed with a savory cabbage, carrot, and tofu filling, encased in delicate wrappers and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal any time of the year, these dumplings are a crowd-pleaser you'll love!

Ingredients

1 packet (50-60 count) round dumpling wrappers
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup water (for steaming)
For the Filling:
200g firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
2 cups finely shredded cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrot
2 spring onions, finely chopped
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp white pepper
For the Dipping Sauce:
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, shredded cabbage, grated carrot, chopped spring onions, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This is your flavorful vegetarian dumpling filling.
2
Assemble Dumplings: Take one dumpling wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your finger. Fold the wrapper in half to form a semicircle, pressing the edges together to seal. Create pleats along one side of the sealed edge, pressing each pleat firmly to the unpleated side until the dumpling is fully sealed and has a decorative edge. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3
Pan-Fry and Steam: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place a single layer of dumplings in the skillet, ensuring they don't touch each other. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
4
Steam to Cook Through: Carefully pour 1/2 cup of water into the skillet. Immediately cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the dumplings steam for 7-10 minutes, or until the wrappers are translucent and the filling is cooked through.
5
Crisp Up and Serve: Once steamed, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to evaporate any remaining water. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the bottoms are extra crispy. Repeat frying and steaming for remaining dumplings, adding more oil as needed.
6
Prepare Dipping Sauce: While dumplings are cooking, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
7
Serve: Serve the Crispy Vegetarian Fried Dumplings hot with the dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find dumpling wrappers?▾

Dumpling wrappers are typically found in the refrigerated or frozen section of most Asian grocery stores. Sometimes larger supermarkets also carry them.

Can I use different vegetables in the filling?▾

Yes, absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling. Other great additions include finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, bok choy, or corn. Ensure any high-water content vegetables are squeezed dry before adding to the filling.

How do I pleat dumplings like a pro?▾

Pleating takes practice! The simplest way is to fold the wrapper in half, seal the bottom, then create small, overlapping pleats along one edge, pressing them firmly to the smooth opposite edge. Many online videos demonstrate various pleating techniques for visual guidance.

Can I freeze uncooked dumplings?▾

Yes! Arrange uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the steaming time.

What's the best way to reheat leftover fried dumplings?▾

For best results, reheat leftover fried dumplings in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or in a pan with a little oil over medium heat until crispy. Microwaving tends to make them soft.