why make this recipe
Cabbage dumplings are a tasty and healthy option packed with flavor. They are easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. With a filling that combines savory ingredients like chicken or tofu and fresh vegetables, these dumplings are not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, you can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or sauces.
how to make Cabbage Dumplings
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or tofu
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chopped vegetables (like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dumpling wrappers or large cabbage leaves for wrapping
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the cooked chicken or tofu and chopped vegetables. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- If using dumpling wrappers, place a spoonful of filling in each wrapper, fold and seal. If using cabbage leaves, place filling on the leaf, fold the edges, and roll tightly.
- Steam the dumplings for about 15-20 minutes or until the wrappers are tender.
- Serve with additional soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Cabbage Dumplings
Serve cabbage dumplings hot with a side of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.
how to store Cabbage Dumplings
You can store leftover cabbage dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply steam them again for a few minutes until warmed through. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are fully cooled and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
tips to make Cabbage Dumplings
- Make sure to chop the vegetables finely for a well-mixed filling.
- To make folding the dumplings easier, wet the edges of the wrappers to help them seal better.
- Consider using a mix of different vegetables for added flavor and color.
- If you want a crunchier texture, pan-fry the steamed dumplings for a minute or two in a little oil after steaming.
variation
You can easily switch up the filling by using ground meat like pork or beef instead of chicken or tofu. Another variation is to add spices like ginger or chili flakes for a bit of heat. You can also try different dipping sauces like chili oil or peanut sauce for a new flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make cabbage dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and wrap the dumplings ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and steam them when you are ready to eat.
2. What if I don’t have dumpling wrappers?
If you don’t have dumpling wrappers, you can use large cabbage leaves to wrap the filling. Just make sure to blanch the leaves in boiling water to soften them a bit.
3. Are cabbage dumplings vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by using tofu and omitting any animal products. Just make sure you choose a suitable dipping sauce that fits your dietary preference.

Cabbage Dumplings
Ingredients
Dumpling Filling
- 1 medium head cabbage for wrapping
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken or tofu
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms) use your favorite vegetables
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Wrapping
- Dumpling wrappers or large cabbage leaves for wrapping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the cooked chicken or tofu and chopped vegetables. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
Wrapping
- If using dumpling wrappers, place a spoonful of filling in each wrapper, fold and seal. If using cabbage leaves, place filling on the leaf, fold the edges, and roll tightly.
Cooking
- Steam the dumplings for about 15-20 minutes or until the wrappers are tender.
Serving
- Serve cabbage dumplings hot with a side of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.