Few things are as satisfying as a platter of homemade Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings. Picture glossy, golden-bottomed parcels filled with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender veggies, and aromatic herbs, ready to dip into a tangy, savory sauce. If you’ve ever wanted to master Asian dumplings at home, this is your invitation! These dumplings are bursting with flavor and color, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a standout main course, all in under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings is in their simplicity—fresh shrimp, lively vegetables, and a few pantry staples are all you need to create something spectacular. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build amazing texture and layer in delicious umami notes, so your dumplings taste truly unforgettable.
- Raw shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp, finely chopped, for a juicy and protein-rich filling that tastes fresh and sweet.
- Finely shredded cabbage: This adds a pleasant crunch and natural sweetness, enhancing every bite.
- Finely chopped carrots: Carrots bring color, a hint of earthiness, and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Green onions: Sliced thin, they add an aromatic bite and a pop of color to the filling.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger gives the dumplings a zesty, warming kick you’ll love.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the filling with just the right amount of garlicky goodness.
- Soy sauce: This ingredient brings out a deep savory flavor that unites all the other fillings.
- Sesame oil: Just a touch delivers rich, nutty aroma and classic Asian flavor.
- Cornstarch: Cornstarch helps bind the filling and keeps it moist during cooking.
- Dumpling wrappers: Use store-bought round or square wrappers for convenience and consistent results.
- Small bowl of water: Essential for sealing the edges of your dumplings tightly!
- Oil for pan-frying: Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable to help crisp up your dumplings.
- Dipping sauce: Soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil create a bold and balanced finishing touch for your dumplings.
How to Make Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl and adding your chopped shrimp, cabbage, carrots, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Grab a spoon (or better yet, your hands!) and mix everything until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should look colorful and just wet enough to hold together, but not runny. This fragrant blend is the soul of your Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings.
Step 2: Fill and Shape the Dumplings
Lay a dumpling wrapper flat on your work surface. Place a teaspoon of the shrimp filling in the center. Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten the edges—this helps the wrapper seal tightly. Fold the wrapper over the filling and press the edges together, squeezing out any trapped air. You can pleat the edges if you’re feeling fancy, or keep them simple and rustic. Continue until you’ve used all of your filling and wrappers. This step is relaxing and a fun activity to tackle with friends or family.
Step 3: Pan-Fry and Steam
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large, nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer, flat side down. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the bottoms turn golden and crisp. Carefully pour in a quarter cup of water, cover the pan right away, and allow the dumplings to steam for 5 to 6 minutes, so the filling cooks through. Finally, remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate as you cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the bottoms get irresistibly crispy.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Transfer your cooked Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings to a serving platter and serve them piping hot with your favorite dipping sauce. The combination of crunchy bottoms, tender wrappers, and the juicy, flavorful filling will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
How to Serve Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings
Garnishes
For that restaurant-style finish, top your Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings with finely sliced green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and perhaps a little cilantro. These fresh garnishes brighten up the plate and provide an extra pop of flavor with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your dumplings with a light Asian-style slaw, a bowl of brothy miso soup, or steamed jasmine rice for a well-rounded meal. A side of sautéed greens or stir-fried noodles is also a great complement, ensuring your Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings take center stage without leaving anyone hungry.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, arrange your dumplings upright in a circular pattern on a large platter with a little dipping sauce in the center. Or serve them in a bamboo steamer for an authentic touch. Individual small plates also make these dumplings extra special for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture. Make sure the dumplings have cooled completely before sealing them up to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezing
Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings freeze beautifully! Arrange uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can cook them straight from frozen; just give them a little extra steaming time and you’re good to go.
Reheating
For reheating, place dumplings in a hot skillet with a splash of water, then cover and steam until heated through. Finish by letting the bottoms crisp up again uncovered. They come out nearly as good as fresh!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
What if I can’t find dumpling wrappers?
Most Asian markets and many large supermarkets carry dumpling or gyoza wrappers in the refrigerated section. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own with flour and water for an extra-homemade touch.
Can I steam these instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Simply place the shaped dumplings in a bamboo steamer or a steamer basket lined with parchment and steam for about 8–10 minutes. They’ll be a bit lighter but just as flavorful.
Are Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings healthy?
They are naturally low in fat, packed with protein and veggies, and can be enjoyed steamed for a lighter option. Plus, you control the ingredients and seasonings, making them a nutritious choice.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely—just keep the filling covered in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. When you’re ready, assemble and cook the dumplings for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly joyful about making and sharing Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings. Whether you’re new to homemade dumplings or a longtime fan, they’re guaranteed to brighten up your table and bring smiles all around. Give these a try—you might just discover your new favorite kitchen tradition!
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Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 30 dumplings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these homemade Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings. These flavorful dumplings are filled with a mixture of shrimp, cabbage, carrots, and aromatic seasonings, offering a perfect balance of taste and texture. Pan-fried and steamed to perfection, they are great as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and finely chopped)
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
- ½ cup finely chopped carrots
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 30 round or square dumpling wrappers
- small bowl of water (for sealing)
- oil for pan-frying
- dipping sauce (soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil)
For the Dumplings:
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped shrimp, cabbage, carrots, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface and spoon about 1 teaspoon of the filling into the center.
- Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold and seal into your preferred dumpling shape, pressing out any air.
- Repeat with remaining filling and wrappers.
- To pan-fry, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add dumplings in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Add ¼ cup water to the pan, cover immediately, and steam for 5–6 minutes until the filling is cooked through.
- Remove the lid and cook uncovered for another 1–2 minutes until crisp again.
- Serve hot with dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet and transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage.
- No need to thaw—just cook straight from frozen with slightly longer steaming time.
- For a lighter option, steam instead of pan-frying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Frying + Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 dumplings
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
