Cabbage Dumplings

There’s something magical about the aroma of Cabbage Dumplings simmering in your kitchen. After 15 years of perfecting this recipe, I’ve learned that the combination of fresh ingredients and flavorful spices makes these dumplings irresistible. This is the dish my family requests every holiday—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for a quick weeknight meal without compromising on flavor.
• Crowd-pleasing: A guaranteed hit at family gatherings or dinner parties—everyone loves dumplings!
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep them in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Fill these dumplings with your choice of proteins or veggies, making them versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cabbage Dumplings recipe requires a combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients that enhance flavor and texture. The use of napa cabbage gives a light crunch and a unique taste.

• Chinese cabbage (napa cabbage) — The key ingredient; look for crisp, fresh leaves with clear, green edges for the best results.
• Chestnut mushrooms — Adds an earthy richness; I’ve tested with shiitake too, but chestnuts give a better texture.
• Carrot — Use fresh and finely chopped for a touch of sweetness and crunch that complements the filling.
• Chicken mince — A great source of protein; you can substitute with turkey for a lighter option.
• Sesame oil — This is the secret to authentic flavor; don’t skip this—it adds depth to the dumplings.

See the recipe card below for complete ingredients and exact measurements.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot — To boil the cabbage leaves until tender, ensuring they are pliable for wrapping.
• Baking tray — Crucial for baking the dumplings evenly.
• Pan for frying — Use a non-stick skillet to get those golden edges when finishing the dumplings.

How to Make Cabbage Dumplings

This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it easier than it looks and perfect for impressing your guests.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil: This is essential for softening the cabbage leaves. Once boiling, add the leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes until tender.
2. Pat the cabbage leaves dry: After boiling, remove the leaves and lay them flat on a tray to cool and dry slightly.
3. Preheat your oven: Set it to 240°C (220°C fan) while you prepare the filling.
4. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped mushrooms, carrot, spring onion, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chicken mince, salt, and pepper. This blend is packed with flavor!
5. Check the seasoning: Fry a teaspoon of the mixture in a pan until cooked, allowing you to taste and adjust before filling.
6. Fill and fold: Place 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture onto each cabbage leaf, fold the edges, and roll them up tightly into dumplings.
7. Bake the dumplings: Arrange them in a baking tray, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes until fully cooked.
8. Fry for golden edges: Finish by frying each dumpling in an oiled pan for 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a golden color.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispness.
2. Bring filling ingredients to room temperature first: This helps them combine better and results in a more even texture.
3. Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Variations to Try

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Cabbage Dumplings! Here are some tasty modifications:

• Spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
• Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with crumbled tofu or 2 cups of cooked lentils for a hearty, plant-based option.
• Cheese lover’s edition: Add an extra cup of shredded mozzarella into the filling for a deliciously cheesy bite.

What to Serve With Cabbage Dumplings

This Cabbage Dumplings pairs beautifully with Asian-inspired sides. Here are my favorite pairings:

• Steamed rice — It complements the dumplings and soaks up the flavors from any dipping sauces.
• Peking-style stir-fried vegetables — A great way to add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Sesame ginger vinaigrette salad — Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of the dumplings.
• Chilled green tea — A soothing drink that enhances the overall dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover Cabbage Dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: The oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes keeps the dumplings nice and crispy; avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cabbage Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dumplings and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day, and bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for chicken mince?

You can use ground turkey or even a mix of mushrooms and finely chopped vegetables for a vegetarian option.

How do I know when Cabbage Dumplings is done?

The dumplings should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Can I freeze Cabbage Dumplings?

Yes, they freeze well! Just freeze them before cooking, and remember to bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why is my Cabbage Dumplings falling apart?

This often happens if the cabbage leaves are too wet or the filling is overpacked. Ensure leaves are dried and don’t overfill them.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space in your baking tray and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Cabbage Dumplings is not only a delicious way to enjoy your meals but also a chance to impress your family and friends with homemade flavor. Try it out, and you’ll see just how satisfying these dumplings can be. Experience the joy of Cabbage Dumplings today!

For more inspiration, explore Pork Cabbage Dumplings or check out the delicious Cabbage Dumplings at Carole Food.

Cabbage Dumplings

Delicious cabbage dumplings packed with flavor, perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dumpling Ingredients

• 1 head Chinese cabbage (napa cabbage) Look for crisp, fresh leaves with clear, green edges.
• 200 g Chestnut mushrooms Adds earthy richness; shiitake can be used but chestnuts have a better texture.
• 1 medium Carrot Finely chopped for added sweetness and crunch.
• 300 g Chicken mince Can be substituted with turkey for a lighter option.
• 2 tbsp Sesame oil Essential for authentic flavor; do not skip.

Additional Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Spring onion Chopped.
• 1 clove Garlic Minced.
• 1 inch Ginger Grated.
• to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes until tender.
3. Pat the cabbage leaves dry and lay them flat on a tray to cool.
4. Preheat your oven to 240°C (220°C fan).
5. In a bowl, mix the chopped mushrooms, carrot, spring onion, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chicken mince, salt, and pepper.
6. Fry a teaspoon of the filling mixture in a pan until cooked to check the seasoning.

Assembly & Cooking

1. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture onto each cabbage leaf, fold the edges, and roll them up tightly.
2. Arrange the dumplings in a baking tray, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Fry each dumpling in an oiled pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.