Delicious Homemade Chinese Dumplings: A Must-Try Recipe

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s a certain joy in watching dough transform into delicate dumplings the sound of flour dusting the countertop, the feel of the smooth dough beneath my fingertips, and the delightful aroma of savory fillings melding together. Traditional Chinese Dumplings, specifically these Pork and Cabbage gems, have a unique place in my heart and kitchen, embodying warmth and tradition.

These dumplings aren t just for special occasions; they effortlessly transition from celebratory Lunar New Year feasts to cozy weeknight dinners. The combination of juicy pork and tender cabbage creates a flavor-packed bite, while the chewy wrappers cradle each morsel perfectly. Plus, the satisfaction of making them from scratch is hard to beat, especially when you can freeze extras for those busy evenings when cooking feels overwhelming.

Join me in crafting these delicious dumplings and experience homemade comfort food that promises to bring a smile to your dinner table!

Why will you love these Chinese Dumplings?

Easy to Make: Crafting these delightful dumplings is simpler than you think! With just a few ingredients and clear steps, you ll feel accomplished in no time.

Bursting with Flavor: The juicy pork and crisp cabbage work together harmoniously, delivering a taste that s both savory and satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it s a festive Lunar New Year gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner, these dumplings are versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Freezer-Friendly Goodness: Prepare a large batch and freeze them for later! Quick weeknight meals just got a lot easier with these tasty dumplings on standby.

Family-Friendly Fun: Involve your loved ones in the preparation process everyone will enjoy folding dumplings together, making it a fun bonding experience!

Chinese Dumpling Ingredients

Create mouthwatering Chinese dumplings with this perfect ingredient list!

For the Filling
Ground Pork Provides rich flavor; use pork with a bit of fat (about 80/20) for a juicier filling.
Napa Cabbage Adds moisture and flavor; chop finely and pat dry to avoid a watery filling.
Green Onions Enhance flavor and freshness; substitute with chives for a milder taste.
Soy Sauce Offers umami and saltiness; tamari can be used for a gluten-free option.
Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) Adds depth to the filling; dry white wine can be an alternative but may taste brighter.
Sesame Oil Contributes nutty flavor; peanut oil can be used as a substitute if unavailable.
Grated Ginger Adds warmth and spice; fresh garlic can be swapped for a different aromatic profile.
Salt and White Pepper Essential seasonings for balancing flavors; adjust to taste.

For the Wrappers (Optional)
All-Purpose Flour A key ingredient for making homemade wrappers; ensure to sift for a fine texture.
Warm Water Helps bind the flour; adjust to get the right consistency for rolling out.

With these simple ingredients at hand, you re just steps away from crafting delicious homemade dumplings!

How to Make Chinese Dumplings

1. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground pork, finely chopped napa cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and white pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and cohesive.

2. Make Wrappers (Optional): For homemade wrappers, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of warm water. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth, then let it rest for 30 minutes. Roll out the dough and cut into 3-inch circles.

3. Form Dumplings: Place about 1 tablespoon of filling onto the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with a little water, fold in half, and seal tightly. For decorative pleats, pinch the edges together as you seal.

4. Cook Dumplings: To boil, add dumplings to boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes until they float. Alternatively, pan-fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown, then add water, cover, and steam for an additional 5-7 minutes.

5. Freeze (if needed): Arrange uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for long-term storage. When ready to cook, boil or pan-fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Optional: Serve with a simple dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for extra flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chinese Dumplings

• Drain Cabbage Well: Pat your chopped napa cabbage dry before mixing it in the filling. This prevents excess water that can make your dumplings soggy.

• Wrapper Thickness: Whether making your own or using store-bought wrappers, ensure they re not too thick to guarantee a delicate bite. This enhances the overall texture of your Chinese dumplings.

• Folding Techniques: Experiment with different folding styles! Whether you prefer simple folds or intricate pleats, ensure each dumpling is well sealed to avoid leaks during cooking.

• Home vs. Store-Bought: While homemade wrappers offer a superior texture and taste, store-bought can save time. Just remember to keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

• Cooking from Frozen: To cook frozen dumplings, add a few extra minutes to your cooking time, whether boiling or pan-frying. This ensures they heat through properly without losing flavor.

• Serving Suggestions: Pair your cooked dumplings with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili oil for an added burst of flavor!

Chinese Dumpling Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dumplings and make them your own there s no wrong way to enjoy these tasty bites!

• Lean Protein: Substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter filling while keeping the flavors intact.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and tofu, adding soy sauce for that savory umami kick.

• Spicy Twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the filling for a zesty heat that will warm your palate and tickle your taste buds.

• Herb Infusion: Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the filling, creating a vibrant, aromatic experience in every bite. Trust me, this little change makes a big difference!

• Extra Crunch: Mix in some finely diced water chestnuts for added texture that provides a delightful crunch alongside the juicy filling.

• Creative Wrappers: Experiment with colored wrappers by adding beet juice for red or spinach puree for green, making your dumplings as visually appealing as they are delicious.

• Savory Sauce: For a flavor boost, drizzle your dumplings with hoisin sauce or sweet chili sauce before serving it s a tasty enhancement that brings them to the next level.

• Cabbage Swap: Use bok choy or Swiss chard instead of napa cabbage for a fresh flavor twist, bringing a different texture and taste dimension to your creations.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the filling and assemble the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. To maintain quality, ensure that the filling is well sealed to prevent any moisture loss. If you d like to prepare even further ahead, uncooked dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you re ready to enjoy, boil or pan-fry from frozen, allowing just a few extra minutes of cooking time. With these prep steps, you can easily have a homemade meal ready when life gets busy!

What to Serve with Chinese Dumplings?

These comforting dumplings pair beautifully with a variety of sides to create a delightful meal experience.

• Savory Dipping Sauce: A mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of chili oil complements the dumplings flavors perfectly, adding a tasty kick.
• Steamed Bok Choy: Lightly steamed bok choy offers a fresh, crunchy contrast to the dumplings, balancing the richness of the filling. It s a breeze to prepare!
• Fried Rice: Fluffy fried rice, infused with veggies and soy sauce, rounds out the meal while providing a comforting, hearty side.
• Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled cucumbers or radishes bring brightness and a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with the warm dumplings.
• Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup s spicy and tangy flavors make it an excellent starter, setting the vibe for the hearty dumplings to follow.
• Sesame Noodles: Cold or warm, the nutty and savory flavors of sesame noodles create a satisfying contrast, ideal for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Chinese Beer or Tea: Enjoy your dumplings with a crisp Chinese beer or a warm cup of jasmine tea to enhance the meal s flavors and warmth.
• Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert s creamy coconut flavor beautifully complements the savory notes of the dumplings, ensuring a well-rounded meal.

Storage Tips for Chinese Dumplings

Fridge: Keep leftover cooked dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or steam them to maintain their texture.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling or frying time.

Reheating: To reheat cooked dumplings, steam or pan-fry them until warmed through, ensuring you keep their delightful chewiness.

Wrapping: If not consuming immediately, ensure that dumplings are well-wrapped or stored in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.

Chinese Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe and fresh napa cabbage?
Absolutely! When choosing napa cabbage, look for firm heads with crisp, pale green leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots all over, as this indicates it may be past its prime. Aim for a cabbage that feels heavy for its size, which indicates moisture and freshness.

What s the best way to store leftover dumplings?
To keep leftover cooked Chinese dumplings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet or steam them for just a few minutes to restore their delightful texture.

Can I freeze uncooked dumplings? How?
Certainly! To freeze your uncooked dumplings, lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don t touch. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. This way, they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you re ready to cook, boil or pan-fry straight from the freezer, just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

What should I do if the dumpling filling turns out too watery?
If you find your filling is watery, drain your napa cabbage thoroughly before mixing it in. After chopping, let it sit in a colander for a bit and then gently pat it dry with a paper towel. This ensures that your filling remains juicy without being soggy!

Are these dumplings suitable for gluten-free diets?
Sure thing! To make the dumplings gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for the wrappers and replace regular soy sauce with tamari. Just like that, you can enjoy these delicious Chinese dumplings while accommodating dietary restrictions.

What s the easiest way to fold dumplings?
Creating the perfect seal on your dumplings can be a bit tricky, but it s fun! After placing the filling on the wrapper, moisten the edges with water, fold it in half, and press firmly to seal. For a decorative touch, you can create pleats by pinching the edges together. Don t worry if they re not perfect the more the merrier in the kitchen!