Vegan Soup Dumplings Recipe: How to Make a Delicious Plant-Based Delight
Few things are as satisfying as biting into a perfectly steamed dumpling bursting with flavorful soup. With this vegan soup dumplings recipe, you’ll learn how to recreate the magic of this iconic dish without using any animal products. Packed with a savory, plant-based broth and tender dumpling wrappers, this recipe proves that indulgent comfort food can be completely vegan.
Let’s explore how to make these delightful dumplings step by step, share some pro tips, and even discover creative variations to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Soup Dumplings
Making soup dumplings from scratch can seem intimidating, but this recipe simplifies the process while ensuring incredible results. Here’s why these vegan soup dumplings will quickly become a favorite:
- Authentic Taste: Savory broth and rich fillings deliver all the flavor of traditional soup dumplings.
- Plant-Based Goodness: Completely vegan, these dumplings are made using simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the fillings or spice level to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: They’re a hit at dinner parties, family meals, or as a satisfying solo treat.
- Impressive Yet Achievable: This recipe balances authenticity with easy-to-follow steps, so you can wow guests without stress.
Ingredients for Vegan Soup Dumplings
Creating these dumplings requires two main components: the broth and the dumpling dough. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Vegan Broth Jelly
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Use a rich, high-quality broth for the best flavor. |
| Agar-agar powder | 1 tbsp | Helps set the broth into a gel-like consistency. |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Adds depth and umami flavor. |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | Optional, for a nutty, aromatic touch. |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Enhances the savory flavor of the broth. |
For the Dumpling Dough
IngredientQuantityNotes/Substitutions
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Use gluten-free flour for a GF option. |
| Warm water | ¾ cup | Adjust as needed to form a smooth dough. |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adds flavor to the dough. |
IngredientQuantityNotes/Substitutions
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Crumbled tofu or jackfruit | 1 cup | Mimics the texture of traditional fillings. |
| Shiitake mushrooms, diced | 1 cup | Adds a meaty, earthy flavor. |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Complements the umami-rich filling. |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tsp | Adds freshness and spice. |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Provides seasoning and umami. |
| Green onions, chopped | 2 tbsp | Optional, for garnish and extra flavor. |
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Vegan Soup Dumplings
- Make the Vegan Broth Jelly
- In a saucepan, mix together the vegetable broth, agar-agar powder, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- Heat the mixture until it comes to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes, whisking continuously to dissolve the agar-agar.
- Pour the broth into a shallow dish and refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
- Once firm, cut the jelly into small cubes. These will melt into the soup inside the dumplings during steaming.
- Prepare the Dumpling Dough
- In a large bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Filling
- Warm a drizzle of sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, tofu (or jackfruit), garlic, and ginger.
- Sauté for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Add green onions and the soy sauce, then remove from heat. Let the mixture cool before assembling the dumplings.
- Assemble the Dumplings
- Divide the dough into small balls, rolling each one into a ball about 1 inch in size.
- Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper, along with a few cubes of the broth jelly.
- Carefully fold the wrapper edges upward, pleating as you go, and pinch to seal at the top.
- Steam the Dumplings
- Line your bamboo steamer or steaming basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to keep the dumplings from sticking as they cook.
- Arrange the dumplings in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
- Steam over boiling water for 8–10 minutes, until the dumpling wrappers are translucent and tender.
- Serve and Enjoy
Serve the dumplings while they’re warm and steamy, paired with your favorite dipping sauce—like a tangy mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili oil.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Vegan Soup Dumplings
- Work Quickly: Agar-agar jelly melts faster than gelatin, so assemble the dumplings efficiently to prevent it from liquefying.
- Keep Dough Covered: Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth at all times to stop it from drying out and becoming tough to work with.
- Test the Steamer: Ensure your steamer has good ventilation and avoid overcrowding the dumplings.
- Customize the Filling: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or cabbage for extra texture.
Creative Variations of Vegan Soup Dumplings
- Spicy Vegan Dumplings: Add chili paste or sriracha to the filling for a fiery kick.
- Asian Fusion Dumplings: Use a Thai-inspired filling with coconut milk, lemongrass, and lime leaves.
- Gluten-Free Dumplings: Substitute the dough with a gluten-free alternative or use rice paper.
- Vegan Dumpling Soup: Serve steamed dumplings in a flavorful vegetable broth for a comforting soup variation.
How to Store and Reheat Vegan Soup Dumplings
Storing
- Store uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a tray and freeze them until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Cooked dumplings can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- To reheat steamed dumplings, pop them back in the steamer for 3–5 minutes, or microwave them with a damp paper towel to keep them soft and moist.
FAQs About Vegan Soup Dumplings
Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or rice paper wrappers to make them suitable for gluten-free diets.
What’s the best substitute for agar-agar?
You can use cornstarch or xanthan gum, but agar-agar is the best vegan-friendly option for a jelly-like consistency.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked on a tray first to prevent sticking, then transfer them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What dipping sauces pair well with these dumplings?
Creamy peanut-based dipping sauce, or a mix of rice vinegar and soy sauceare all fantastic pairings for these dumplings!
Related Recipe: Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Pair your dumplings with a hearty bowl of our Ditalini Pasta Recipe for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy pasta complements the savory dumplings beautifully!
Conclusion: Why Vegan Soup Dumplings Are Worth the Effort
Making vegan soup dumplings from scratch is an incredibly rewarding experience. Each bite is filled with savory soup, tender filling, and perfectly steamed dough—It’s a delicious reminder that plant-based cooking can be every bit as indulgent and satisfying as traditional recipes.
So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself to a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Don’t forget to share your creations—we’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!
