Vegan Dumplings

Ah, vegan dumplings! Just the thought of those delicate little pockets filled with savory goodness makes my heart sing. As a child, I remember spending hours with my grandmother, carefully folding each one, her stories as warm as the broth they’d simmer in. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years to make it vegan, and believe me, these vegan dumplings hold all the love and flavor of the original. And if you are looking for another hearty dish, try these vegan stuffed shells, they are so delicious!

Those were the days! My grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our home, filled with laughter, shared stories, and of course, incredible food. I remember sneaking extra tastes of the dumpling filling, much to her amusement. Now, I share those same moments with my own daughter, teaching her the art of folding and the joy of cooking.

These vegan dumplings are not only a delicious, hearty meal but also a fun activity to do with the whole family. They’re surprisingly low-stress to make and packed with nutrients. My secret is to prepare the filling ahead of time – it makes the whole process much smoother.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

The heart of these vegan dumplings lies in the savory filling. Earthy cremini mushrooms and vibrant shredded cabbage create a delightful textural contrast, while garlic and ginger infuse every bite with warmth. These marry me chickpeas are another delicious dish that highlights just how flavorful vegan meals can be. I find the aroma of the ginger and garlic as the filling cooks is simply divine. All the ingredients you will need with measurements are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Vegan Dumplings

Making vegan dumplings is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll start by creating a flavorful filling, carefully wrapping it in delicate dumpling wrappers, and then air frying them to golden perfection. It is that simple! I guarantee you will love roasted eggplant pasta as much as you will love these dumplings.

Emma

Savory Air Fryer Vegan Dumplings

These crispy and flavorful vegan dumplings are filled with a savory mushroom and cabbage mixture, then air-fried to perfection. A quick and easy weeknight meal!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Dumpling Filling:

• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms finely chopped
• 1 cup Shredded Cabbage
• 1/2 cup Shredded Carrots
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 inch Ginger grated
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
• 1 tsp Maple Syrup
• 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper

For the Dumplings:

• 30-40 Vegan Dumpling Wrappers (Gyoza wrappers)
• 1/4 cup Water for sealing

For Serving (optional):

• Soy Sauce for dipping
• Chili Oil for dipping

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Steamer Basket (optional)
• Large Skillet

Method

 

Prepare the Filling:

• Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the cabbage is slightly softened.
• Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, then remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

Assemble the Dumplings:

• Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled filling in the center of the wrapper.
• Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal, creating pleats if desired.
• Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. If not cooking immediately, cover the assembled dumplings with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Air Fry the Dumplings:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or line with parchment paper.
• Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to cook them in batches.
• Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the dumplings are golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

• Serve the vegan dumplings immediately with soy sauce and chili oil for dipping, if desired.

Notes

For a softer dumpling, you can steam them for 8-10 minutes instead of air frying. Be sure to line your steamer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also pan-fry these dumplings; heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the dumplings, and cook until golden brown on the bottom, then add a splash of water to the pan, cover, and steam until the water evaporates and the dumplings are cooked through.

Leftover dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for Making This Vegan Dumplings

Here are a few of my go-to tips for making the best vegan dumplings every single time. These tips will help you elevate your dumpling game!

For Extra Flavor

• My Secret Trick: I always add a splash of sesame oil to the filling right before wrapping the dumplings. It adds a nutty richness that elevates the entire dish.

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick, while fresh cilantro brightens the flavor.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Make sure to seal the dumplings tightly to prevent them from opening during cooking. A little water on the edges of the wrapper helps create a secure seal.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer! Cook the dumplings in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get nice and crispy.

Fun Variations for Vegan Dumplings

Want to put a unique spin on your vegan dumplings? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Kimchi Dumplings: Add finely chopped kimchi to the filling for a fiery and fermented twist.

• Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different types of mushrooms in the filling. Shiitake, oyster, and enoki mushrooms all add unique flavors and textures.

• Tofu and Spinach Dumplings: Incorporate crumbled tofu and chopped spinach into the filling for a protein-packed and nutrient-rich option.

What to Serve With Vegan Dumplings

Vegan dumplings are a delicious meal all on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Consider serving them with:

• Soy sauce and chili oil for a classic dipping experience.
• A side of steamed edamame for a healthy and satisfying complement.
• A simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory dumplings.
• I like to make a simple dipping sauce of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup to drizzle over the dumplings.

How to Store Vegan Dumplings

Leftover vegan dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When reheating, I find that steaming them or pan-frying them with a little oil works best to restore their original texture and flavor. I always store them in a glass container to preserve flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

These vegan dumplings are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. They’re a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, they’re low in calories and fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence for the whole family.

FAQs

Can I make these vegan dumplings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and wrap the vegan dumplings ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to keep them covered to prevent the wrappers from drying out. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

What if I can’t find vegan dumpling wrappers?

If you can’t find vegan dumpling wrappers at your local grocery store, you can easily make your own using a simple dough of flour, water, and a pinch of salt. There are many recipes available online, and it’s a fun project to do with kids.

Can I bake these vegan dumplings instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake these vegan dumplings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. However, they won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried dumplings. For best results, brush them with a little oil before baking.

Are there any other vegetables I can add to the vegan dumplings filling?

Feel free to get creative with the filling! Some other vegetables that would work well in these vegan dumplings include shredded bok choy, finely chopped mushrooms, water chestnuts, or even some grated zucchini. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting with different flavors and textures.

Conclusion

These savory air fryer vegan dumplings are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re surprisingly easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your own taste preferences. Why not try making this Mediterranean crescent ring to bring new exciting flavors? So gather your family, put on some music, and get ready to create some delicious memories in the kitchen.

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