Table of Contents
Introduction
Author Notes
Nothing’s quite like the delicate balance of flavors and textures found in dumplings. Now, take that, fill it with a hot, savory “soup” bursting with flavor, and you have vegetarian soup dumplings—the perfect comfort food. But if you’re vegetarian (or vegan), finding a decent meat-free version can seem impossible.
That’s where homemade vegetarian soup dumplings swoop in to save the day! Whether you’re diving into your first attempt at creating vegan soup dumplings or you’re a home-cooking expert, this step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process. Packed with fresh ingredients and umami flavors, these dumplings are here to impress your taste buds. You’ll even learn tips to customize your fillings and elevate your dish to match restaurant-quality standards.
Key Takeaways
- You’ll learn how to make vegetarian and vegan soup dumplings from scratch.
- All ingredients can be easily sourced, and substitutions will be provided.
- Step-by-step instructions are included, so even Dumpling Newbies can follow along.
Vegetarian Soup Dumplings Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
For the Filling and Soup Gel:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (for vegan soup gelatin)
For the Dumpling Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup warm water (plus a little extra if needed)
For the Dumpling Filling:
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake or button work great)
- 0.25 cup shredded carrots
- 0.5 cup chopped bok choy or spinach
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sliced scallions
Preparation Steps
Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect vegetarian soup dumplings:
Step 1: Make the Soup Gel
- Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan and sauté the onion until golden.
- Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and agar-agar powder. Stir well to dissolve the powder completely.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes, then pour it into a shallow container. Refrigerate until it sets into a firm gel, about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
- Add the flour to a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour the warm water into the dough while stirring continuously.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes soft and elastic, typically 8–10 minutes.
- Cover the dough and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
- Heat sesame oil in a pan. Add the mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, and garlic. Stir-fry until softened and fragrant.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and cool.
Step 4: Combine the Filling and Soup Gel
- Dice the firm soup gel into small cubes.
- Mix the gel cubes with the vegetable filling in a large bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Dumplings
- Divide the dough into 16 small, equal portions and roll each into a ball.
- Flatten each ball into a thin circle (about 4 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin.
- Place a spoonful of filling with gel cubes in the center of each wrapper.
- Gently fold the edges of the wrapper to seal, pinching tightly at the top.
Step 6: Steam the Dumplings
- Line your steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Place the dumplings in the basket, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Steam for 10–12 minutes.
And voilà—your vegetarian soup dumplings are ready to be devoured!
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
| Prep Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins |
| Servings: 4 | Yield: makes approximately 16 dumplings |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Notes
- Agar-agar is an excellent plant-based substitute for gelatin in vegan recipes. Be sure to check package instructions for appropriate water-to-powder ratios.
- If rolling perfect dough circles feels tricky, don’t worry! Slight imperfections won’t affect your dumplings’ deliciousness.
Variations/Substitutions
- Filling Variations: Add finely chopped water chestnuts for crunch, or experiment with tofu for added protein.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free soy sauce.
- Frozen Shortcuts: If you’re short on time, use frozen vegetarian soup dumplings like Mila vegetarian soup dumplings and steam them directly.
Equipment Needed
- Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
- Rolling pin
- Pan for sautéing
- Saucepan for making soup gel
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| 57 | 1g | 12g | 2g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
| 105mg | |||
| Sodium |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your vegetarian soup dumplings hot with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Sprinkle finely sliced scallions on top for a pop of color. Pair your dumplings with a warming miso soup or a fresh cucumber salad.
Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
Feeling adventurous? Incorporate herbs like cilantro or add a hint of ginger for an extra layer of flavor. And don’t forget to share your first bite by snapping a photo—you’ll want to brag about your masterpiece!
Conclusion
You did it—homemade vegetarian soup dumplings are now part of your repertoire! These delicious little parcels aren’t just food; they celebrate flavor and creativity. Perfect for cozy nights in or for impressing your friends at your next dinner party, these dumplings are versatile, satisfying, and uniquely packed with rich, savory flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
Made entirely plant-based, these vegetarian dumplings prove that comfort food can be both indulgent and compassionate. From the soft, delicate dough to the flavorful broth that bursts with every bite, they’re more than just a dish—an experience.
If you enjoyed these, get ready for an even greater delight ahead! There’s so much more where that came from. Subscribe to our page for even more inventive recipes, tips, and ideas to build your vegetarian cooking arsenal and elevate your plant-based meals to the next level!
FAQ
Can I freeze these dumplings?
Absolutely! Arrange uncooked dumplings on a tray with parchment paper, freeze them, and transfer them to a resealable bag. When ready, steam them straight from frozen.
What’s the difference between vegan and vegetarian dumplings?
Vegan dumplings exclude animal products, including gelatin, dairy, or eggs, whereas vegetarian dumplings might contain non-meat animal products.
Are there pre-made vegetarian soup dumplings I can try?
Yes! Brands like Mila vegetarian soup dumplings offer easy-to-prepare options that are perfect for busy days.
Can I make these dumplings spicy?
Definitely! Include chili flakes in the filling or serve with spicy dipping sauces.