Cabbage Dumplings
There’s something magical about the aroma of Cabbage Dumplings simmering in your kitchen. After 15 years of perfecting this recipe, I’ve learned that using fresh ingredients makes all the difference. This is the dish my family requests every holiday—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 45 minutes: Perfect for a quick weekday dinner or weekend treat.
- Crowd-pleasing: These dumplings are always a hit at gatherings.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the filling to suit your tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cabbage Dumplings recipe uses a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that result in a flavorful filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chinese cabbage (napa cabbage) — Using large leaves from this variety is key for wrapping, as they are tender and pliable when cooked.
- Chestnut mushrooms — Opt for fresh chestnut mushrooms for their earthy flavor which adds depth to the filling.
- Carrot — Finely chopped for a hint of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall texture.
- Chicken mince — I always use lean chicken mince for a lighter option, but pork or beef can work too.
- Sesame oil — Adds a nutty aroma and richness; don’t skip this—it’s a flavor enhancer!
See the recipe card below for complete ingredients and exact measurements.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot — Essential for boiling the cabbage leaves to soften them.
- Baking tray — Used for baking the prepared dumplings, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Mixing bowl — A large bowl allows plenty of space for combining your filling ingredients.
How to Make Cabbage Dumplings
This Cabbage Dumplings recipe comes together in just six simple steps. Let’s get started!
- Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large deep pot of salted water to a boil. Break off about 12-14 leaves from the cabbage and simmer in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft. Pat dry on a kitchen towel.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine finely chopped mushrooms, carrot, spring onion, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chicken mince, and seasoning. Mix well using your hands.
- Test the seasoning: Cook a small spoonful of the mixture in a pan to check seasoning. Adjust salt if needed.
- Shape the dumplings: Place 1-2 tbsp of the filling on a cabbage leaf, fold in the edges, and roll tightly to create dumplings.
- Bake the dumplings: Place the dumplings in a baking tray, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes until cooked through. For golden edges, fry in an oiled pan for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Serve: Serve with chili oil and soy sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving dumplings space to fry ensures even cooking and crisp edges.
- Bring chicken mince to room temperature first: This ensures it mixes easily with other ingredients.
- Make extra sauce: Always have some extra chili oil and soy sauce for dipping—it’s a crowd pleaser!
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Here are a few variations:
- Spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling.
- Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken mince with crumbled tofu or a mix of chopped vegetables.
- Cheese lover’s edition: Incorporate a cup of shredded cheese into the filling for a creamy twist.
What to Serve With Cabbage Dumplings
This Cabbage Dumplings pairs beautifully with light side dishes. Here are my favorite pairings:
- Steamed vegetables — Their freshness complements the richness of the dumplings.
- Rice — A simple side of white or jasmine rice helps soak up any sauce.
- Asian slaw — A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the soft dumplings.
- Green tea — A warm cup of green tea balances the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover Cabbage Dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: The oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes keeps the dumplings tender while reviving their texture. Avoid the microwave if possible—it makes them rubbery.
Cabbage Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large deep pot of salted water to a boil.
- Break off 12-14 leaves from the cabbage and simmer in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft. Pat dry on a kitchen towel.
- In a large bowl, combine finely chopped mushrooms, carrot, chicken mince, sesame oil, and seasoning. Mix well using your hands.
- Cook a small spoonful of the mixture in a pan to check seasoning. Adjust salt if needed.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of the filling on a cabbage leaf, fold in the edges, and roll tightly to create dumplings.
- Place the dumplings in a baking tray, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
- For golden edges, fry in an oiled pan for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Serve the dumplings with chili oil and soy sauce for dipping.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cabbage Dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and bake them just before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken mince?
You can use ground turkey, beef, or pork for a different flavor. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when Cabbage Dumplings is done?
They should be cooked through, tender, and the filling should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze Cabbage Dumplings?
Yes, freeze them using proper wrapping to prevent freezer burn. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Why is my Cabbage Dumplings falling apart?
A common issue is overcooking the leaves, making them too fragile. Ensure to simmer just until softened.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure you have a large enough workspace and cooking trays to accommodate the extra dumplings.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Dumplings recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, combining savory flavors with a satisfying texture. With a bit of preparation, you can impress your guests or family with this incredible dish. Don’t forget to give these Cabbage Dumplings a try!
For more amazing dumpling recipes, check out Pork Cabbage Dumplings on The Defined Dish. You can also explore this version of Cabbage Dumplings at Carole Food for some additional tips and tricks.
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