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Rice Paper Dumplings

Rice Paper Dumplings

These Rice Paper Dumplings offer a light, healthy, and flavorful Asian-inspired dish featuring translucent rice paper wrappers filled with a savory mix of ground meat or plant-based protein and fresh vegetables and herbs. Quick to prepare and versatile in fillings, they provide an authentic texture and are perfect for sharing at family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Rice Paper Wrappers

  • Rice paper wrappers (thin sheets)

Filling

  • Ground meat or plant-based protein (pork, chicken, shrimp, or tofu) – about 1 cup
  • Shredded carrots – 1/2 cup
  • Shredded cabbage – 1/2 cup
  • Chopped mushrooms – 1/3 cup
  • Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, green onions, or Thai basil) – 1/4 cup
  • Minced garlic – 2 cloves
  • Minced fresh ginger – 1 teaspoon
  • Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – 2 tablespoons
  • Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon

Optional Extras

  • Chopped water chestnuts – 1/4 cup
  • Bean sprouts – 1/4 cup
  • Chili flakes or diced fresh chili peppers for spice (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Finely chop the vegetables and herbs. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat or tofu with shredded carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well incorporated, moist but not soggy.
  2. Soften the Rice Paper: Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for 10-15 seconds until soft and flexible but not overly soggy.
  3. Assemble the Dumplings: Lay the softened rice paper flat on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of filling near one edge. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly, sealing edges by dampening with a bit of water.
  4. Cook the Dumplings: Choose steaming or pan-frying. For steaming, place dumplings in a parchment-lined steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes until cooked through. For pan-frying, heat oil over medium heat, fry dumplings until golden and crispy on the bottom, then add water, cover, and steam through.
  5. Serve Warm: Serve the dumplings fresh and hot with dipping sauces like soy sauce, chili oil, or sweet chili for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Keep the rice paper moist and work quickly to prevent drying out; cover finished dumplings with a damp towel.
  • Control filling moisture to avoid tearing or soggy wrappers.
  • Scoop equal amounts of filling for uniform dumpling size and even cooking.
  • Use non-stick surfaces such as parchment or silicone mats when rolling to avoid sticking.
  • Adjust cooking time based on filling thickness to ensure thorough cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rice Paper Dumplings, Asian Dumplings, Gluten-Free Dumplings, Healthy Dumplings, Steamed Dumplings, Pan-fried Dumplings, Vegetarian Dumplings, Seafood Dumplings