Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth – Cozy Vegan Classic

A Mother’s Recipe: Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

Comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth bring together the heart of tradition and the warmth of modern home cooking. This soul-soothing bowl came to life on a quiet Sunday afternoon as I stood in the kitchen with my daughter, shaping dumplings side by side. The steam from the savory broth curled through the air as our hands worked in rhythm — hers small and eager, mine practiced and patient.

As a child, I learned to cook standing on a stool next to my mother. Her dumplings were simple: cabbage, tofu, and a pinch of love — no measuring, just memory. That early connection still guides my hands today, especially when I make these comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth, which now hold a special place at our family table.

After years of nursing and nourishing others, I know food is more than fuel — it’s care. These tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth are cozy, healing, and plant-based comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making them solo, sharing them with family, or serving them on a chilly night, this recipe offers warmth, nutrition, and a taste of home.

if you like Tofu, check this Korean Kimchi Dumplings with Tofu

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Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth — What Makes Them So Special?

What if your next bowl of comfort could be handmade, nourishing, and completely plant-based — all without sacrificing flavor? That’s exactly what you get with these comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth.

The magic is in the balance: pillowy dumpling wrappers filled with savory tofu and sweet Napa cabbage, gently simmered in a rich, umami-forward broth. Each spoonful delivers contrast — soft yet structured, light yet deeply satisfying. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a sensory experience.

Unlike store-bought dumplings, these are crafted with intention. The tofu is pressed and seasoned to soak up every drop of flavor. The cabbage is lightly salted to bring out its natural sweetness. And the broth? It’s a fusion of miso, garlic, ginger, and soy — a base that warms you from the inside out.

If you’ve ever wondered whether dumplings could be both hearty and healthy, the answer is right here. These tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth aren’t just vegan — they’re deeply comforting, wonderfully customizable, and weeknight-worthy. Whether you’re new to plant-based meals or a longtime fan, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

To make these comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients — many of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge. This recipe is entirely plant-based, full of flavor, and easy to customize.

🥟 For the Dumpling Filling

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
• 2 cups finely chopped Napa cabbage
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (helps bind the filling)

🫓 For the Dumpling Wrappers (optional if store-bought)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup hot water
• Pinch of salt

Tip: You can use pre-made vegan dumpling wrappers to save time.

🍲 For the Broth

• 4 cups vegetable broth (unsalted or low-sodium)
• 1 tablespoon white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
• Chili flakes or chili oil (optional, for heat)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

These comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth come together in just a few steps. Whether you’re a dumpling novice or a kitchen pro, this guide keeps it simple and satisfying.

🥟 Make the Dumpling Filling

1. Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and press it under a heavy pan for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. Prep the cabbage: Sprinkle the chopped Napa cabbage with a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out moisture using a clean towel.
3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine pressed tofu, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well until cohesive.

🫓 Make or Prepare the Wrappers

4. If making from scratch: Mix flour, salt, and hot water in a bowl until dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes, then cover and rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide & roll: Cut dough into small pieces, roll each into a circle about 3 inches wide. Keep wrappers covered to prevent drying out.

🥟 Assemble the Dumplings

6. Fill and fold: Place 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of a wrapper. Moisten the edge with water, fold in half, and pleat the edges to seal.
7. Repeat: Continue filling and sealing until all wrappers are used.

🍲 Cook the Dumplings in Broth

8. Prepare the broth: In a large saucepan, combine vegetable broth, miso paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer.
9. Add dumplings: Gently place dumplings into the simmering broth. Cook for 5–6 minutes or until wrappers are tender and dumplings float.
10. Serve hot: Ladle dumplings and broth into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and optional chili oil or chili flakes for heat.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

Want your comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth to come out flawless every time? These tips are based on hands-on experience and small kitchen secrets passed down through generations.

🥟 Dumpling Success Tips

• Don’t skip the tofu press: Removing excess water ensures your filling stays firm and flavorful — no soggy dumplings here.
• Salt the cabbage early: This draws out moisture and enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
• Cornstarch is your binder: It holds the tofu and cabbage together, making folding and sealing much easier.
• Keep wrappers moist: Cover unused dough or wrappers with a damp towel to prevent cracking as you fold.

🍲 Broth & Cooking Tips

• Simmer, don’t boil: A gentle simmer protects your dumplings from falling apart and keeps the broth clear and aromatic.
• Add miso at the end: Stir in miso after turning off the heat to preserve its probiotics and subtle umami flavor.
• Taste before serving: Broth too salty? Add water. Too mild? A splash of tamari or a dash of garlic-chili oil adds quick depth.

❄️ Storage & Freezing

• Freeze before cooking: Lay assembled dumplings on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed container. Cook from frozen — just add 2 extra minutes in the broth.
• Broth stores separately: Keep leftover broth and dumplings in separate containers to maintain texture.

Variations and Customizations

What makes these comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth so versatile is how easily they adapt to flavor profiles from across the globe. Whether you’re craving something spicy, fusion-forward, or inspired by traditional Korean or Japanese cuisine — these dumplings have you covered.

Nutrition Facts for Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

These comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth aren’t just cozy and delicious — they’re a healthy, plant-based option that fuels your body while satisfying your soul. Below is the nutrition breakdown per serving (1 bowl = approx. 5 dumplings with 1 cup broth).

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	210 kcal
Protein	11g
Carbohydrates	26g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sugars	3g
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	580mg
Iron	2.2mg (12% DV)
Calcium	115mg (9% DV)
Vitamin C	12mg (15% DV)

Note: These values may vary based on broth type, tofu firmness, and any add-ins like garlic-chili oil or kimchi.

Eating tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth is a great way to enjoy a satisfying, low-calorie meal without sacrificing flavor. You’re getting lean plant-based protein, antioxidants from cabbage, and all the grounding comfort of homemade vegan soup.

Final Thoughts on Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth

There’s something timeless about sitting down to a hot bowl of comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth. It’s not just the flavor — it’s the feeling. The warmth of the miso-ginger broth, the soft bite of tofu and cabbage nestled in handmade wrappers, and the joy of knowing you’ve crafted a meal with love.

This dish is more than a recipe — it’s a moment of calm, a nod to tradition, and a nourishing way to bring people together. Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a quiet evening or preparing a pot for your family, comfort tofu and cabbage dumplings in broth deliver all the coziness of classic dumplings with the mindful nourishment of plant-based ingredients.

If this recipe warmed your heart as much as your kitchen, leave a comment, share your variation, and follow me on Pinterest. And don’t forget to explore our other vegan soup dumpling ideas and fusion comfort food recipes for even more inspiration.

FAQs About Comfort Tofu and Cabbage Dumplings in Broth