Easy Dumplings
Learn how to make homemade dumplings with easy wonton wrappers, ground pork, and fresh vegetables. Perfect appetizer!
Ingredients
- 24 round wonton wrappers
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cups napa cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 scallions, minced
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for pan-frying
- 1/4 cup water for steaming
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- Chili oil for serving (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine ground pork, chopped napa cabbage, minced scallions, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, cornstarch, white pepper, and sugar in a medium mixing bowl.
- 2
Stir the filling mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture becomes slightly sticky, about 1 minute.
- 3
Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean, dry work surface and place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of the wrapper.
- 4
Wet the edges of the wrapper with water using your finger, then fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle and press the edges firmly to seal.
- 5
Bring the two pointed corners of the triangle together and press to seal, forming a small purse shape.
- 6
Repeat the filling, folding, and shaping process with the remaining wrappers and filling until all dumplings are assembled.
- 7
Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.
- 8
Place dumplings flat-side down in the skillet in a single layer, leaving space between each dumpling, and allow them to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms turn golden brown and crispy.
- 9
Pour the water around the dumplings (not directly on them) and immediately cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam.
- 10
Steam the dumplings for 5-6 minutes until the water is mostly absorbed and the dumplings are tender and cooked through.
- 11
Remove the lid carefully and cook uncovered for another 1-2 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture and re-crisp the bottoms.
- 12
Transfer the dumplings to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- 13
Serve the dumplings immediately while they are still warm, with chili oil or additional soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Variations & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ground pork | ground chicken or turkey | Poultry is leaner and lower in saturated fat, reducing overall calorie content while maintaining protein |
| standard soy sauce | low-sodium or reduced-sodium soy sauce | Cuts sodium content by up to 40% without sacrificing umami depth or saltiness perception |
| napa cabbage | shredded zucchini or mushrooms | Increases fiber content and adds prebiotic compounds that support gut health and digestion |
| vegetable oil | avocado oil or olive oil spray | Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and monounsaturated fats that reduce inflammation markers |
| white sugar | omit entirely or use 1/2 tsp honey | Reduces simple sugar intake and blood sugar spikes while maintaining subtle sweetness balance |
Recommended Equipment
Tools that make this recipe easier
Nutrition Information
Per serving (serves 4)
| Calories | 245 |
| Total Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 22mg |
| Sodium | 285mg |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 16g |
This recipe was extracted from the original video source using AI. Nutritional information is estimated and may vary. Not a substitute for professional dietary advice. As an Amazon Associate, AlmostChefs earns from qualifying purchases. Product links are affiliate links — they cost you nothing extra but help support the site. Read full disclaimer
