Dumplings are a universally loved comfort food that have been adopted and adapted by cultures all over the world. From savory to sweet, fried to steamed, dumplings come in many forms, each with its own unique flavor and cultural significance. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or light, there’s a dumpling for every taste. Below, you’ll find 17 mouth-watering dumpling recipes from around the world that will satisfy all your cravings. Each recipe has a unique twist, and we’ve linked to the full recipes to help you bring these delicious dumplings to your kitchen!
1. Jiaozi (China) – Savory, Delicious, and Versatile
Jiaozi are traditional Chinese dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cabbage, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. They are typically boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, with a crispy golden bottom. Jiaozi are often made during the Lunar New Year to symbolize wealth and prosperity, thanks to their shape resembling ancient Chinese gold ingots. These dumplings are perfect for any occasion and are commonly served with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce. Whether you prefer them boiled or crispy, jiaozi is a must-try. Get the recipe: Jiaozi Recipe – China
2. Momo (Nepal) – Steamed Delights with Flavorful Fillings
Momos are a popular street food in Nepal, often served as a snack or appetizer. These steamed dumplings are typically filled with a spiced mixture of minced meat (chicken, pork, or buffalo) and vegetables, or made entirely vegetarian. The dumplings are typically seasoned with garlic, ginger, and turmeric to give them a burst of flavor. Momo is often served with a spicy dipping sauce, making them a favorite comfort food in Nepal and surrounding regions. Get the recipe: Momo Recipe – Nepal
3. Gyoza (Japan) – Crispy and Juicy Perfection
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings filled with ground pork, cabbage, and garlic, known for their crisp golden bottoms and juicy interiors. They are pan-fried on one side and then steamed, creating the perfect contrast in textures. Gyoza is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This popular dish can also be made with ground chicken or beef and can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer. Get the recipe: Gyoza Recipe – Japan
4. Mandu (Korea) – A Versatile and Flavorful Dumpling
Mandu is a popular Korean dumpling, typically filled with a mixture of ground pork, beef, tofu, and vegetables. These dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, offering a versatile range of textures and flavors. Mandu are often seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and kimchi, giving them a savory, flavorful punch. This dish is typically served with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce or in a warm soup. Get the recipe: Mandu Recipe – Korea
5. Momos (Tibet) – Tibetan Dumplings Full of Flavor
Momos are iconic in Tibetan cuisine. Filled with a mix of spiced meat (usually yak or beef) or vegetables, momos are steamed to perfection and often served with a spicy, tangy dipping sauce. The spices used, such as ginger, garlic, and chili, provide depth to the filling, making every bite satisfying. They can also be made with a combination of ingredients for different textures and flavors. Get the recipe: Momos Recipe – Tibet
6. Buuz (Mongolia) – Hearty and Flavorful Steamed Dumplings
Buuz are traditional Mongolian dumplings filled with minced mutton or beef. They are seasoned with onions, garlic, and simple spices, allowing the rich flavor of the meat to shine through. Buuz are typically steamed and eaten during special occasions and festivals, offering a comforting and hearty meal. The tender dough and juicy filling make buuz a warm, satisfying dish. Get the recipe: Buuz Recipe – Mongolia
7. Har Gow (China) – Delicate Shrimp Dumplings
Har Gow, or shrimp dumplings, are a delicate dim sum dish from China. They are made with a translucent rice flour wrapper, which is thin yet strong enough to hold the shrimp filling. The dumplings are steamed, and the result is a soft, chewy exterior filled with tender shrimp and seasoned with ginger and garlic. Har Gow is often served as part of a dim sum feast, accompanied by a soy-vinegar dipping sauce. Get the recipe: Har Gow Recipe – China
8. Xiao Long Bao (China) – Soup Dumplings That Burst with Flavor
Xiao Long Bao, or soup dumplings, are a popular dish from Shanghai, China. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground pork and a flavorful broth, which is turned into a gelatinous form before being encased in the dumpling wrapper. When steamed, the broth melts back into liquid, creating a flavorful soup inside the dumpling. They are typically served in bamboo baskets and enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar. Get the recipe: Xiao Long Bao Recipe – China
9. Pierogi (Poland/Ukraine) – Comforting Dumplings Filled with Potatoes and Cheese
Pierogi are popular Eastern European dumplings, especially in Poland and Ukraine. They are made from unleavened dough and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, but the most common fillings include mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions. Pierogi can be boiled or fried and are often served with sour cream, bacon, or caramelized onions. They are hearty, comforting, and perfect for any meal. Get the recipe: Pierogi Recipe – Poland/Ukraine
10. Vareniki (Ukraine) – Ukrainian Dumplings with a Sweet and Savory Twist
Vareniki are Ukrainian dumplings similar to pierogi, but they can be made with sweet fillings such as cherries or blueberries, as well as savory fillings like mashed potatoes and cheese. These dumplings are usually boiled and served with sour cream. The sweet vareniki are often served as a dessert, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Get the recipe: Vareniki Recipe – Ukraine
11. Knish (Eastern Europe) – A Pastry-Pocket Dumpling
Knish is an Eastern European dumpling made from dough that is filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. The most common filling is mashed potatoes, often mixed with caramelized onions or ground beef. The dough is then folded over the filling and baked or fried until golden and crispy. Knish is a popular snack in Jewish delis and is a favorite comfort food for many. Get the recipe: Knish Recipe – Eastern Europe
12. Coxinha (Brazil) – Deep-Fried Dumplings Shaped Like a Drumstick
Coxinha is a Brazilian dumpling filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, shaped to resemble a chicken drumstick. These dumplings are breaded and deep-fried, giving them a crispy, golden exterior. The creamy, flavorful chicken filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy crust, making coxinha a delicious and indulgent snack. Get the recipe: Coxinha Recipe – Brazil
13. Empanada (Latin America) – A Flavorful Pastry Pocket
Empanadas are a popular dish across Latin America, made from a dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables. These dumplings are typically baked or fried, giving them a crispy golden exterior. Empanadas can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, and are often paired with a tangy salsa or dipping sauce. Get the recipe: Empanada Recipe – Latin America
14. Gondi (Iran) – Chickpea Flour Dumplings in Broth
Gondi are Iranian dumplings made from chickpea flour, often filled with ground chicken, onions, and spices. These dumplings are cooked in a flavorful broth, allowing them to absorb all the rich flavors of the soup. Gondi is typically served in the winter months and is known for its comfort and warmth.Get the recipe: Gondi Recipe – Iran
15. Manti (Turkey) – Turkish Dumplings with Yogurt Sauce
Manti are Turkish dumplings filled with spiced ground meat, typically lamb or beef. They are boiled and served with a yogurt sauce and a drizzle of melted butter. The dumplings are often topped with a sprinkle of paprika or sumac, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Get the recipe: Manti Recipe – Turkey
16. Samosa (India) – A Triangular Delight
Samosas are triangular dumplings filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are deep-fried to crispy perfection and are often served with chutneys. These savory dumplings are widely popular in India and throughout South Asia, enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Get the recipe: Samosa Recipe – India
17. Lilva Kachori (India) – Spicy, Deep-Fried Dumplings
Lilva Kachori is a deep-fried dumpling filled with spiced pigeon peas, making for a crispy, flavorful snack. These dumplings are often served with tamarind chutney or yogurt, and they offer a unique twist on the traditional dumpling, with a spiced and tangy filling that’s hard to resist. Get the recipe: Lilva Kachori Recipe – India
These 17 dumpling recipes bring together flavors and cooking techniques from across the globe, showing the variety and creativity that this dish encompasses. Whether you want to try something traditional like pierogi or explore a modern twist on dumplings, these recipes will satisfy your craving for something delicious and comforting. Happy cooking!
