Irresistible Vegan Kimchi Dumplings (Mandu) Recipe

Name: Vegan Kimchi Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat dumpling wrappers; 1 cup kimchi (finely chopped); 1 cup firm tofu (pressed and crumbled); 3 green onions (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp ginger (grated); 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; For Dipping Sauce: 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp chili paste (adjust to taste)

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

May 12, 2025

Updated:

May 12, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of Vegan Kimchi Dumplings (Mandu) wafts through the air, promising a delightfully spicy and savory experience. Imagine biting into a perfectly steamed dumpling, with a burst of flavor that dances on your tongue, leaving you craving more.

These little pockets of joy are not just delicious; they also bring back fond memories of bustling kitchens filled with laughter and family gatherings. Perfect for cozy nights or festive celebrations, these dumplings will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Vegan Kimchi Dumplings are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners
Their bold flavor profile is a delightful explosion in every bite
With their vibrant colors, they are sure to impress on any dinner table
Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish—versatile enough for any occasion!

Sharing these dumplings at a family gathering led to my aunt declaring me the “Dumpling Queen” after they disappeared in seconds.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Whole Wheat Dumpling Wrappers: Opt for fresh wrappers if available; they yield the best texture and flavor.
Kimchi: Choose your favorite brand; homemade is great if you have it. The spiciness adds fantastic depth.
Firm Tofu: Press it before use to remove excess moisture; this helps it absorb flavors better when cooking.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild kick and vibrant color—don’t skimp on these!
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic brings out an irresistible aroma.
Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty touch that complements the kimchi beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to control saltiness while still providing umami goodness.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle enhances the overall flavor profile and gives a lovely nutty aroma.

For the Dipping Sauce:

Rice Vinegar: This adds tanginess; it’s great for balancing out the flavors of the dumplings.
Chili Paste: For those who like it hot! Adjust based on your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

To embark on this delicious adventure of making Vegan Kimchi Dumplings, let’s break down the process step by step.

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, crumble the firm tofu using your hands until it resembles ricotta cheese. Add finely chopped kimchi, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Seasoning Time: Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.

Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place about one tablespoon of filling in the center. Wet the edges with water using your fingertip before folding it in half to create a half-moon shape. Pinch tightly to seal any potential escape routes for that delicious filling!

Cook them Up: Prepare your steamer by adding water and bringing it to a boil. Arrange dumplings in the steamer basket without overcrowding them. Steam for about 10-12 minutes until they’re translucent and tender.

Dipping Sauce Creation: While dumplings steam away, whisk together rice vinegar and chili paste in a small bowl. Adjust spice levels according to your taste buds—this is where you can really get creative!

Serve & Enjoy: Once steamed, serve your Vegan Kimchi Dumplings warm alongside your dipping sauce. Watch as everyone dives into these delightful morsels that pack an extraordinary punch of flavor!

Now you’re ready to share these flavorful bites with family or friends—or simply keep them all to yourself because who could blame you?

Enjoy creating these delicious Vegan Kimchi Dumplings!

You Must Know

Vegan Kimchi Dumplings offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures
They are perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night at home
The spicy, tangy kimchi pairs beautifully with the soft dumpling skin, creating a satisfying culinary experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your filling while the dumpling dough rests. This way, you can assemble quickly and ensure even cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables in the filling based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add some sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them by steaming or pan-frying until they’re warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the perfect dumpling texture, ensure your dough is not too thick; thin skins create a delightful bite
Use fresh kimchi for maximum flavor and always taste before adding salt
Practice makes perfect when folding dumplings, so keep trying!

It’s funny how my brother once thought he could just throw these dumplings together without reading the recipe. Let’s just say we all had a good laugh when his attempt turned into a kimchi pancake instead!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers?

Yes, store-bought wrappers save time and still taste great in Vegan Kimchi Dumplings.

How spicy are these dumplings?

The spice level depends on the kimchi used; adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I freeze Vegan Kimchi Dumplings?

Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked for easy future meals; just steam directly from frozen.

0 Shares