Golden on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, Crispy Cabbage Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce are the kind of snack or appetizer that disappears fast. These pan-fried dumplings are filled with finely chopped cabbage, aromatics, and savory seasonings, then cooked until perfectly crisp and served with a bold soy dipping sauce that ties everything together.
Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in, a party appetizer, or a light vegetarian meal, these dumplings deliver restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients and an easy cooking method.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Cabbage Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
- Perfectly crispy bottoms with tender filling
- Simple vegetarian ingredients
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Great as an appetizer, snack, or light meal
- Easy to customize with add-ins
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crispy Cabbage Dumplings Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dumpling wrappers | 30–35 | Dumpling shell |
| Green cabbage (finely chopped) | 3 cups | Main filling |
| Green onions (minced) | 3 | Flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Aromatic |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp | Warm spice |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Umami |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | Depth |
| Vegetable oil | For frying | Crispiness |
| Water | As needed | Steaming |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Balance |
Soy Dipping Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Honey or sugar | 1 tsp |
| Chili oil (optional) | To taste |
| Sesame seeds | For garnish |
How to Make Crispy Cabbage Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
1. Prepare the Cabbage Filling
Place the finely chopped cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture using your hands or a clean towel.
👉 Why this matters: Removing moisture prevents soggy dumplings.
Add green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
2. Assemble the Dumplings
Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon 1 teaspoon of filling into the center.
Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold in half and pleat the edges to seal tightly.
Repeat with remaining wrappers.
3. Heat the Pan
Heat 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
When the oil is hot and shimmering, arrange dumplings in a single layer, flat-side down.
4. Pan-Fry Until Crispy
Cook dumplings for 2–3 minutes, until the bottoms turn golden brown and crispy.
Do not move them during this time—this ensures a good crust.
5. Steam to Finish Cooking
Carefully add ¼ cup water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid. Reduce heat to medium and let dumplings steam for 4–5 minutes, until wrappers are tender and filling is cooked through.
Remove the lid and cook for another 1–2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture and re-crisp the bottoms.
6. Make the Soy Dipping Sauce
While dumplings cook, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), and chili oil if using. Garnish with sesame seeds.
7. Serve
Transfer dumplings to a plate, crispy-side up. Serve hot with the soy dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Cabbage Dumplings
- Squeeze cabbage well to remove moisture
- Don’t overfill wrappers
- Use a hot pan for crisp bottoms
- Keep dumplings covered while steaming
Variations & Substitutions
Flavor Add-Ins
- Shredded carrots
- Mushrooms (finely chopped)
- Napa cabbage instead of green
Protein Options
- Add tofu crumbles
- Ground chicken or pork (cook thoroughly)
Cooking Methods
- Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes
- Steam-only for a lighter version
What to Serve With Crispy Cabbage Dumplings
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Asian cucumber salad
- Miso soup
- Stir-fried noodles
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store cooked dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze uncooked dumplings for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crispy Cabbage Dumplings ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Why aren’t my dumplings crispy?
The pan may not be hot enough, or the cabbage wasn’t drained well.
Can I bake these dumplings?
Yes, but pan-frying gives the best texture.
Are these dumplings vegan?
Yes, as written.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a crispy, savory bite that’s both comforting and light, Crispy Cabbage Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce are the perfect choice. Golden, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, these dumplings bring restaurant-style satisfaction straight to your kitchen.