Rice Paper Dumplings
Rice Paper Dumplings offer a fresh, light, and customizable twist on traditional dumplings. Featuring delicate rice paper wrappers filled with savory ground protein and fresh vegetables, these dumplings combine crispy and tender textures for a delightful bite. Quick to prepare and ideal for sharing, they are perfect for gluten-free diets and versatile enough to adapt to various fillings and flavors.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 20 dumplings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Steaming or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Rice Paper Wrappers
- Thin and delicate rice paper wrappers
Filling
- 200g ground protein (chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or tapioca starch
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, or basil), to taste
- Prepare the Filling: Finely chop or mince your chosen protein and vegetables. In a mixing bowl, combine the protein, shredded carrots, cabbage, scallions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh herbs, and starch. Mix thoroughly to create a cohesive filling that holds together well.
- Soften the Rice Paper: Dip a rice paper wrapper briefly into warm water until it becomes pliable but not overly soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface or damp cloth to prepare for filling, working quickly to avoid tearing.
- Add the Filling: Place a small spoonful of the filling near one edge of the softened rice paper. Be careful not to overfill, as the delicate wrapper can tear easily.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll tightly like a spring roll or fold into a traditional dumpling shape. The moisture from the wrapper will keep it sealed effectively.
- Cook the Dumplings: Choose your preferred method: steam the dumplings for 6-8 minutes until cooked through or pan-fry them in a little oil until the exterior is crispy and the filling is tender.
Notes
- Do not over-soften the rice paper wrappers to prevent tearing; dip quickly and work fast.
- Keep a damp cloth handy to cover the dumplings during preparation, preventing them from drying out.
- Drain excess water from vegetables to maintain filling texture and avoid tearing the wrappers.
- Use a sharp knife for finely chopping ingredients, which helps the filling hold together better.
- For extra texture, steam the dumplings first, then pan-fry to achieve a crispy outside and tender inside.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 dumplings
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Rice Paper Dumplings, Gluten-Free Dumplings, Easy Dumplings, Homemade Dumplings, Healthy Snacks, Asian Dumplings