Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce are more than just a weeknight dinner — they’re a celebration of bold flavors, plant-based goodness, and homemade comfort. This easy recipe is loaded with tender veggies, wrapped in delicate dumpling skins, and paired with a fiery garlic-chili dipping sauce that’s utterly addictive.
My love for dumplings began when I was a little girl standing beside my mom in our cozy kitchen, folding each piece by hand. Now, I get to share those same vegan dumpling traditions with my daughter — in our bright, modern kitchen, filled with laughter, steam, and stories. We make these dumplings as a family, and they’ve quickly become a favorite recipe that combines old traditions with fresh, plant-powered flavor.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, celebrating, or just craving something delicious and satisfying, these Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce are a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Dumplings
These Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce are more than just tasty — they check all the right boxes for a healthy, feel-good meal:
- 🥬 Totally plant-based – No animal products, just fresh veggies and flavor-packed aromatics.
- 🕒 Quick & Weeknight-Friendly – Ready in under an hour from prep to plate.
- ❄️ Freezer-friendly – Make a double batch and freeze for later (see: Double-Batch Vegan Dumplings for Freezing)
- 🧄 Flavor-packed garlic-chili sauce – Spicy, tangy, and homemade with pantry staples.
- 👨👩👧 Kid-approved & family-friendly – A hands-on recipe even kids can help with!
These dumplings are soft on the inside, crispy on the bottom (if pan-fried), and perfect for dipping in that bold, garlicky chili sauce. Whether you steam them or pan-fry, each bite bursts with warmth and umami.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce at home is easier than you think. Below are the two parts: one for the dumpling filling, and one for that irresistible homemade dipping sauce.
🥟 For the Dumpling Filling
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Napa cabbage | 2 cups (shredded) | Salt lightly to release moisture |
| Firm tofu | 1/2 block | Crumbled, water-pressed |
| Shiitake mushrooms | 1 cup (finely chopped) | Fresh or rehydrated dried works |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp | Grated |
| Scallions (green onions) | 2 stalks | Thinly sliced |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Or tamari for gluten-free option |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 tsp | Adds nutty depth |
| Dumpling wrappers | 24–30 | Look for round, egg-free wrappers |
🌶️ For the Garlic-Chili Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Thinly sliced |
| Chili flakes | 2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Neutral oil (avocado, canola) | 1/4 cup | For heating the aromatics |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds umami |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp | For a tangy kick |
| Maple syrup (optional) | 1/2 tsp | Balances the heat with a hint of sweet |
Everything in this recipe is pantry-friendly and plant-based, keeping the focus on flavor without complicating your shopping list.
How to Make Asian-Inspired Vegan Dumplings with Garlic-Chili Sauce
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce from scratch. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly fun — especially when you get the whole family involved.
Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Filling
- Salt the cabbage
Place shredded napa cabbage in a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess water using a clean towel. - Sauté the aromatics
In a pan, heat 1 tsp of oil. Add garlic, ginger, mushrooms, and tofu. Sauté over medium heat until mushrooms soften and tofu browns slightly. - Season and combine
Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions. Cook for 1–2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before assembling your dumplings.
Step 2: Assemble the Vegan Dumplings
- Fill the wrappers
Place 1 tsp of filling into the center of each dumpling wrapper. - Seal with water
Dip your finger in water and run it along the edge. Fold and pinch to seal tightly. You can go with a basic half-moon shape or try pleating if you’re feeling fancy. - Repeat until done
Lay each dumpling on a floured plate or tray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
You can choose your favorite cooking method:
- Pan-Fried (Potstickers)
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a nonstick skillet. Add dumplings flat-side down, cook until bottoms are golden. Add 1/4 cup water and cover. Steam for 4–5 minutes, then uncover to crisp up. - Steamed
Line a steamer with parchment or cabbage leaves. Steam dumplings over boiling water for 7–8 minutes. - Boiled
Drop dumplings into gently boiling water. When they float, cook for 1–2 more minutes and remove.
Step 4: Make the Garlic-Chili Sauce
While the dumplings cook, make the dipping sauce:
- Heat the oil
In a small saucepan, heat neutral oil until shimmering. - Sizzle the garlic and chili
Pour the hot oil over sliced garlic and chili flakes in a heatproof bowl. Let it sizzle for 10 seconds. - Add seasoning
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup if using. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired.
This garlic-chili sauce pairs perfectly with the delicate, savory filling of these Asian-inspired vegan dumplings — it’s bold, balanced, and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Asian-Inspired Vegan Dumplings with Garlic-Chili Sauce | Simple, Bold & Irresistible Recipe in 4 easy Steps
Ingredients
Method
- 1. Place shredded cabbage in a bowl with salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then squeeze out water.
- 2. Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté garlic, ginger, tofu, and mushrooms until browned.
- 3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions. Stir and cook 2 more minutes. Let cool.
- 4. Place 1 tsp filling into each wrapper. Wet edges with water and fold to seal.
- 5. Lay dumplings on floured tray to prevent sticking.
- 6. Choose cooking method: pan-fry, steam, or boil as desired.
- 7. To pan-fry: cook in oil until bottoms are golden, then steam with water and cover.
- 8. To steam: place on parchment-lined steamer and cook 7–8 minutes.
- 9. To boil: drop into water, cook 1–2 minutes after they float.
- 10. Make sauce: Heat oil and pour over garlic and chili flakes in a heatproof bowl.
- 11. Add soy sauce, vinegar, and maple syrup. Mix and adjust to taste.
- 12. Serve dumplings hot with garlic-chili sauce on the side.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Tips for Folding and Sealing Vegan Dumplings
If you’re making Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce for the first time, don’t worry — the folding process is much easier than it looks. With a few simple techniques and some practice, you’ll be folding dumplings like a pro in no time.
- Use just the right amount of filling
Too much filling can make dumplings hard to seal and more likely to burst. Stick to 1 heaping teaspoon for each wrapper. - Keep the wrappers covered
Dumpling wrappers dry out fast. Cover them with a damp towel while working to keep them soft and pliable. - Seal with water — no egg needed
Since these vegan dumplings are egg-free, all you need is water along the edge of the wrapper. Press firmly to seal and remove air bubbles. - Master the pleat
For that restaurant-style look, start with a simple fold and work your way up to pleated edges. Don’t worry — they’ll taste great no matter how they look! - Use flour to prevent sticking
Lightly flour your tray or plate before placing your folded dumplings down to prevent sticking and tearing.
Making Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce is also a fun group activity. Invite the kids, your partner, or a few friends, and turn it into a dumpling-folding party.
For even faster folding, check out our guide:
→ 50 Dumplings in Under an Hour
How to Store & Reheat Asian-Inspired Vegan Dumplings
If you’re making Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce, chances are you’ll want to enjoy them more than once. The great news? They store beautifully and reheat without losing their chewy texture or bold flavor.
🧊 How to Store Leftover Dumplings
Whether you’re prepping ahead or saving extras, storing these Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce is simple:
- Refrigerate cooked dumplings in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment to avoid sticking.
- Freeze uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. This keeps their shape and prevents ice buildup.
These vegan dumplings freeze perfectly, so you can always have a batch of Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce ready for last-minute meals. Make a double batch and save time later:
→ Double-Batch Vegan Dumplings for Freezing
🔥 How to Reheat Dumplings Without Drying Them Out
Reheating Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce the right way means keeping their texture just right — soft, juicy, and perfect for dipping.
- Pan-Fry (for crispy bottoms): Heat a bit of oil, add dumplings flat-side down, and crisp both sides for 2–3 minutes.
- Steam (for soft dumplings): Place in a steamer for 4–5 minutes until heated through and moist.
- Microwave (in a pinch): Add a splash of water, cover loosely, and microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Need more help? Get full reheating techniques here:
→ Reheating Guide: best reheating for each style
With the right storage and reheating methods, your Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce will taste just as fresh and flavorful the next day — bold, spicy, and comforting every time.
More Vegan Dumpling Recipes to Try
Once you’ve made these Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce, you’ll want to explore more creative, plant-based dumpling dishes to keep the flavor going all week long.
Here are a few reader favorites you’ll love:
- 🥟 Japanese Gyoza vs Korean Mandu: Vegan Styles Compared
Discover the key differences between these two iconic dumplings — plus vegan versions of each. - ❄️ Double-Batch Vegan Dumplings for Freezing
Learn how to make, freeze, and reheat dumplings like a pro — ideal for meal prepping Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce. - 🔁 Reheating Guide: best reheating for each style
Whether you pan-fry, steam, or microwave, this guide ensures your dumplings come out just right every time. - ⏱️ 50 Dumplings in Under an Hour
Perfect for parties or big-batch prep. Includes folding techniques and freezing tips.
Trying one recipe is just the beginning. This collection lets you build a full week of vegan dumpling meals, starting with these irresistible Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce and expanding into new regional flavors and cooking methods.
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FAQ About Vegan Dumplings and Dipping Sauces
What kind of sauce goes with Asian dumplings?
Classic options include soy sauce, black vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil. For more flavor, this garlic-chili sauce — served with our Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce — adds the perfect mix of spice, tang, and umami.
What is in the Din Tai Fung vegan dumplings?
Din Tai Fung’s vegan dumplings often feature mushrooms, glass noodles, cabbage, and tofu. Our Asian-inspired vegan dumplings follow a similar approach, using shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and napa cabbage for a satisfying texture and rich flavor.
What are San Xian dumplings?
San Xian dumplings are traditionally filled with a “three delights” mix: shrimp, pork, and eggs. For a plant-based spin, try combining tofu, mushrooms, and spinach to mimic those layered textures — like in our Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce.
Are Trader Joe’s vegetable dumplings vegan?
Yes, Trader Joe’s Thai Vegetable Gyoza are labeled vegan. However, if you want full control over ingredients, homemade versions like these Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce are even better — fresh, customizable, and freezer-friendly.
Why are Trader Joe’s soup dumplings being recalled?
Recalls can happen due to mislabeling or allergen concerns. Always check the latest FDA updates. For a worry-free option, make your own at home using our fully plant-based recipe for Asian-inspired vegan dumplings with garlic-chili sauce.
What are the ingredients in Trader Joe’s Thai vegetable gyoza?
They typically include cabbage, carrots, edamame, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. These are similar to the ingredients in our Asian-inspired vegan dumplings, which use tofu and shiitake mushrooms for extra protein and depth.
