Name: Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 36 round or square dumpling wrappers; 1 lb ground chicken or ground tofu; ½ cup firm tofu, drained and crumbled; 1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage; 3 scallions, thinly sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; Optional: 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)

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I created these Mandu (Korean Dumplings) to enjoy delicious, bite-sized dumplings filled with flavorful vegetables and protein. Whether I steam, pan-fry, or boil them, they always come out juicy, savory, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the soft, chewy wrapper holds a rich filling of veggies and seasoning. These dumplings are versatile, fun to shape, and perfect for serving as appetizers, snacks, or in a comforting soup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Makes about 36 dumplings

36 round or square dumpling wrappers
1 lb ground chicken or ground tofu
½ cup firm tofu, drained and crumbled (if using ground chicken, this adds tenderness)
1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage
3 scallions, finely sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional: 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)

Directions

I mix the ground chicken or crumbled tofu, cabbage, scallions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. I stir everything until the mixture is well combined and cohesive.
I place a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface, add about a teaspoon of the filling in the center, and lightly brush the edge with water. I fold the wrapper over and pinch to seal tightly. I repeat until all the filling is used.
I choose one of the following cooking methods:
- Pan-fried: I heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium-high, add dumplings flat side down, and fry until golden (2–3 minutes). I then add ¼ cup water, cover, and steam until the water evaporates and the filling is cooked (5–6 minutes).
- Steamed: I place dumplings in a steamer lined with parchment or cabbage leaves and steam for 8–10 minutes.
- Boiled: I drop them into simmering water and cook until they float and the filling is cooked through (about 5–6 minutes).
I serve hot with dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil or gochujang.

Servings and Timing

Makes about 36 dumplings, enough for 4–6 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: around 45 minutes

Variations

I use ground turkey, mashed chickpeas, or chopped mushrooms in place of chicken or tofu.
I mix in chopped kimchi or grated carrots for a tangy or sweet touch.
I serve the dumplings in broth with sliced scallions for a cozy soup version.

Storage / Reheating

I freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. I cook them straight from frozen without thawing. Leftover cooked dumplings can be reheated by pan-frying or steaming gently.

FAQs

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes, I use tofu and finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots for a flavorful plant-based version.

Do I need to cook the filling first?

No—the filling cooks fully inside the dumpling during steaming, boiling, or pan-frying.

What wrappers should I use?

I prefer round dumpling or gyoza wrappers, but square wonton wrappers also work if folded diagonally.

How do I keep them from sticking?

I use parchment paper or cabbage leaves in the steamer and oil the pan lightly for pan-frying to prevent sticking.

Can I prep them in advance?

Yes—I shape the dumplings ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Conclusion

I love making Mandu (Korean Dumplings) when I want something warm, tasty, and fun to share. The savory filling and versatile cooking methods make them a reliable go-to for meals or snacks—comforting, simple, and full of flavor.