Chinese dumplings or jiaozi are a popular Chinese dish that’s enjoyed around the world. They come in different sizes, shapes, and flavors.
They can be boiled, steamed, or fried. They can be filled with meat, vegetables, or both.
But often, the question we ask ourselves when we want to serve them is, what to serve with Chinese dumplings?
Fear not, because we’ve got you covered with some quick and amazing side dishes that you can serve with Chinese dumplings.
Whether you are having them as a meal or as a snack, Chinese dumplings are always a crowd-pleaser.
These side dishes are easy to make, delicious, and will take your dumpling game to the next level.
What are Chinese dumplings? What do Chinese dumplings taste like?
Chinese dumplings, also known as jiaozi in Mandarin, are a traditional Chinese dish typically filled with ground pork or beef and various vegetables such as cabbage, onions, and scallions.
The dumplings are then boiled or steamed to create a savory taste profile that is both delicate and filling.
The exterior of the dumpling has a tender texture that melts in your mouth, while the interior is richly filled with juicy flavorings.
Chinese dumplings can be served with soy sauce, hot chili oil, black vinegar, and various other sauces for an added kick of flavor.
They are often eaten during special occasions such as Chinese New Year or the Dragon Boat Festival, as well as during family gatherings or just regular dinners.
Chinese dumplings have a unique flavor profile that can vary depending on the fillings used and how the dumpling is cooked.
Generally speaking, they tend to have a slightly sweet taste from the meat used and a subtle umami flavor due to the broth they are cooked in.
The vegetables inside provide an additional layer of depth to their flavor profile, while the packaging contributes even more complexity when it comes to texture.
When dipped into one of the many sauces available for them, Chinese dumplings become even more flavorful!
What else serve with Chinese dumplings
1. Chinese Broccoli Stir-Fry
Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan, is a nutritious and tasty vegetable that goes well with dumplings.
To make this dish, stir-fry chopped garlic and ginger in hot oil for a few seconds, then add the Chinese broccoli and stir-fry until tender.
Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce, and garnish with sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds.
2. Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is an ideal classic Chinese dish that’s simple yet delicious. To make this dish, cook some white rice and let it cool.
Beat some eggs in a bowl and add them to a hot wok with oil. Scramble the eggs and add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and chopped scallions.
Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and the eggs are well-incorporated.
3. Chinese Cucumber Salad
Chinese cucumber salad is a perfect refreshing side dish that complements dumplings well. To make this dish, slice some cucumbers into thin rounds and sprinkle them with salt.
Let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out any excess liquid. Mix the cucumbers with a dressing made of rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Chill in the fridge until fully ready to serve.
4. Char Siu Bao
Char siu bao, or steamed barbecue pork buns, are a popular dim sum dish that makes a great side dish for dumplings.
You can buy them pre-made or make them from scratch using a recipe online. These fluffy and savory buns are sure to please your guests.
5. Sichuan Spicy Green Beans
Sichuan spicy green beans are a must-have side dish when it comes to Chinese cuisine. To make this dish, stir-fry fresh green beans in hot oil until they turn bright green and start to blister.
Add minced garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns and stir-fry for a few seconds. Add soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, and chili oil, then stir-fry until the sauce is absorbed.
6. Wonton Noodle Soup
Wonton noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course.
To make this dish, boil some wontons filled with meat or vegetables in a pot of boiling water until they float to the surface.
Add some cooked Chinese egg noodles and fresh bok choy to the pot and simmer for a few minutes. Ladle some broth over the top and garnish with chopped scallions.
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7. Chinese Style Pickled Cucumbers
Chinese-style pickled cucumbers are a great alternative to the usual sweet pickles. To make this dish, slice some cucumbers thinly and sprinkle them with salt.
Let them sit for 10 minutes, then rinse them with cold water and squeeze out any excess liquid.
Combine them with a dressing made of rice vinegar, sugar, salt, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Chill in the fridge for at least one hour prior to serving.
8. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
Stir-fried bok choy is a simple yet delicious vegetable side dish that goes well with dumplings.
To make this dish, cut some bok choy into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry in hot oil with minced garlic until the leaves are wilted, and the stems are tender.
Season with soy sauce and sesame oil, and optionally add some crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
9. Chicken and Mushroom Wontons
Chicken and mushroom wontons are a tasty alternative to the usual pork and vegetable wontons.
To make this dish, mix ground chicken, minced mushrooms, chopped scallions, and seasonings in a bowl. Spoon a tablespoon of the mixture onto a wonton wrapper and seal the edges.
Boil or steam the wontons until cooked through and serve with soy sauce and chili oil.
10. Spicy Peanut Noodles
Spicy peanut noodles are a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with dumplings.
To make this dish, cook some Chinese egg noodles and let them cool. Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and chili paste in a bowl and mix well.
Toss these noodles with the sauce and garnish with chopped scallions and crushed peanuts.
11. Fruits
Fruits are a perfect side dish to serve with Chinese dumplings. They are light and refreshing, and they add a touch of sweetness to the meal.
You can serve a fruit salad made with pineapple, berries, grapes, and oranges. Alternatively, you can serve sliced fruits such as oranges, pears, or apples for a quick and easy side dish.
12. Noodle Salad
Noodle salad is a great side dish to serve with Chinese dumplings. You can use any type of noodle, such as ramen, soba, or egg noodles.
Add some vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Dress with a simple mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar, and you will have a delicious and refreshing side dish.
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13. Egg Drop Soup
Egg Drop Soup is an ideal classic Chinese soup that goes perfectly with Chinese dumplings. It’s creamy, flavorful, and light.
To make it, all you need is chicken broth, eggs, cornstarch, and green onions. It’s a great way to add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
14. Kimchi
Kimchi is a Korean side dish that goes perfectly with Chinese dumplings. It’s spicy and tangy and adds a lot of flavor to the meal.
Kimchi is made with cabbage, chili paste, garlic, and ginger. It’s easy to make and can be kept in the fridge for several weeks.
15. Sesame Cucumber Salad
Sesame cucumber salad is a great side dish to serve with Chinese dumplings. It’s light, fresh, and delicious.
To make it, slice cucumbers thinly and toss them with a mix of sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
16. Edamame
Edamame is a classic appetizer in Japanese cuisine that makes a great side dish to serve with Chinese dumplings.
It’s easy to make and can be seasoned with salt or soy sauce. Edamame is also high in protein and fiber, so it’s a healthy side dish option.
17. Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a healthy and easy side dish to serve with Chinese dumplings.
You can use any vegetables that you like, such as broccoli, carrots, or bok choy. Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for extra flavor.
18. Sweet and Sour Sauce
Sweet and sour sauce is a classic Chinese dipping sauce that goes well with Chinese dumplings. It’s tangy and sweet and adds a lot of flavor to the meal.
You can make it at home with ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
Main course to eat with Chinese dumplings
Chinese dumplings are a traditional and flavorful staple of Chinese cuisine that can make for a delicious and filling main course.
Dumplings are typically filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, beef, chicken, shrimp, cabbage, mushrooms, and herbs. They can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried before being served.
Depending on the type of dumpling and region they’re from, they can also be garnished with additional toppings such as scallions or sesame seeds.
Many restaurants offer variations on classic recipes by experimenting with different fillings and cooking methods to create unique versions of the popular dish.
When paired with rice or noodles, Chinese dumplings can make for an easy and satisfying meal any time of day.
Appetizers to serve with Chinese dumplings
1. Chinese Pancake
Chinese pancakes are a popular accompaniment to dumplings and are made from a simple batter of flour, egg, salt, and oil.
This crispy pancake is usually pan-fried until golden brown and served with various sauces.
2. Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a classic appetizer to serve with dumplings. They come in different shapes and sizes, but the most common type is filled with shredded vegetables or pork and then wrapped in an egg-based dough that is deep-fried until golden. (Recipe)
3. Soup Dumplings
Soup dumplings are made by boiling ground pork, chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, and other ingredients in an aromatic broth before wrapping them in thin dough wrappers.
These delicious little morsels make for a great starter when served alongside traditional Chinese dumplings.
4. Fried Wontons
Fried wontons are another great side dish for Chinese dumplings, as they feature a similar filling wrapped in a thin dough wrapper that is then fried to perfection.
The crunchy texture contrasts with the savory filling making it an appetizing choice to serve with your meal of dumplings.
5. Cold Appetizers Plate
A cold appetizer plate is perfect when looking for something light yet flavorful to serve alongside your dumpling feast.
Make sure to include some cold cuts of meat, such as roast pork or duck, along with some vegetables like pickled cucumbers as well as an array of sauces for dipping!
Drinks to pair with Chinese dumplings
Chinese dumplings are one of the most beloved foods in Chinese cuisine and for good reason.
These delectable morsels of meat, seafood, or vegetables wrapped in a light dough can often be served either steamed or fried. When it comes to pairing drinks with dumplings, there is no shortage of options.
Here are five excellent beverages that will perfectly complement your next plateful of delicious dumplings:
1. White Wine
A crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice when it comes to pairing alcoholic beverages with Chinese dumplings.
The acidity in white wines helps to cut through the richness of the dough wrappings and any fatty fillings while also offering a delightful contrast to the savory flavors within.
2. Jasmine Tea
Jasmine tea is a wonderfully fragrant option that pairs perfectly with steamed dumplings.
The subtle floral aroma and lightly sweet flavor work well as an accompaniment to many types of fillings, while the mild astringency nicely balances out the flavors of any dipping sauce you might use.
3. Beer
If you prefer something slightly more robust than white wine but just as refreshing, beer is an ideal option for pairing with Chinese dumplings.
Whether your preference leans towards lagers or ales, you’re sure to find one that complements your meal perfectly without overwhelming it.
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4. Green Tea
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, green tea offers a pleasant blend of bitterness and sweetness that pairs very nicely with both steamed and fried dumplings alike.
Its light herbal flavor pairs particularly well with vegetable-based fillings, while its clean finish helps round out heavier meat-based dishes beautifully.
5. Sparkling Water
Finally, if you want something truly simple yet still refreshing enough to cut through some of the heavier flavors present in Chinese dumplings, sparkling water is your best bet!
With its light effervescence and a subtle hint of carbonation, it pairs exceptionally well across all types of dishes thanks to its clean taste that won’t overpower other flavors on your plate.
Desserts to go with Chinese dumplings
1. Egg Tarts
A classic Chinese dessert that perfectly complements the savory flavor of dumplings, egg tarts are a deliciously sweet pastry made of flaky crusts filled with rich custard and baked until golden brown.
Best enjoyed warm, these delectable treats are often served as part of dim sum or Chinese brunch.
2. Mango Pudding
Mango Pudding is a creamy, chilled pudding that is the perfect way to cool off after a hot bowl of dumplings.
Made with fresh mango puree and coconut milk, this light dessert balances out heavier flavors nicely.
3. Sesame Balls
Sesame Balls are crunchy deep-fried pastries that boast a chewy texture and a mild sweetness thanks to their red bean paste filling.
Topped with plenty of sesame seeds for extra crunchiness, sesame balls pair perfectly with dumplings for a deliciously balanced meal. (Recipe)
4. Almond Cookies
Traditional almond cookies are the go-to choice among many Chinese families when it comes to pairing desserts with dumplings.
The crumbly texture and nutty flavor make these cookies the perfect accompaniment for savory dishes like dumplings.
5. Coconut Milk Soup
This comforting soup is a popular dessert in East Asian cultures and can be easily adapted to complement any flavor profile of dumplings you might be serving.
The smooth texture and subtle sweetness are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
What are the best flavors to go with Chinese dumplings?
Chinese dumplings are a classic dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
From savory pork and cabbage to sweet custard-filled, there are lots of mouthwatering flavors to choose from when it comes to dumplings.
While the type of filling is the most important factor in choosing your favorite flavor, the combination of dipping sauces and condiments can really take your Chinese dumpling experience to the next level.
Some popular flavor combinations include soy sauce and sesame oil, chili oil with garlic, and hoisin sauce and rice vinegar.
For those who prefer a sweeter option, go for a mix of honey and Chinese five-spice or peanut butter and scallions.
How do you jazz up Chinese dumplings?
There are many ways to jazz up Chinese dumplings. Try adding a variety of different ingredients such as shredded carrots, chopped spinach, diced mushrooms, diced peppers, minced garlic and onion.
You can also top them with a mixture of sauces like soy sauce, sriracha or hoisin sauce for extra flavor.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of fillings like pork and shrimp or pork and vegetables to mix things up.
For even more fun, try wrapping the dumplings in different shapes, such as stars or triangles!
How do you display Chinese dumplings on a platter?
Chinese dumplings can be beautifully displayed on a platter by arranging them in circles to create an eye-catching design.
You could begin by placing the largest dumplings in the center of the platter, then working your way outwards with smaller and smaller sizes.
By doing this, you’ll create a visually appealing presentation that will draw guests’ attention.
If desired, you could also add colorful vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to add pops of color and further enhance the visual impact.
Once your design is complete, you can serve the dumplings either as-is or garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for added flavor and aroma.
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Tips on How to Choose the Most Suitable side dishes for Chinese Dumplings
Chinese dumplings are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
When choosing side dishes for your dumplings, there are some tips to consider to help ensure you get the most out of your meal.
First, look at the type of dumpling you are serving. Different types may require different types of side dishes.
For instance, pan-fried pork dumplings might pair well with stir-fried vegetables, while steamed veggie and seafood dumplings would work better with a cold noodle salad or steamed rice.
In addition to considering the type of dumpling, think about flavor profiles as well. If your main dish is fairly mild, adding spicy elements can bring out more depth in the taste.
On the other hand, pairing sweet or salty sauces with savory fillings can balance out the flavors nicely.
Sauces like hoisin sauce, hot mustard, soy sauce and even honey can be great additions to any plate featuring Chinese dumplings.
Another important factor to consider when selecting side dishes is texture contrast.
Crunchy sides like coleslaw or pickled cucumbers add an interesting contrast to soft and pillowy dumplings, as do roasted nuts or deep-fried spring rolls.
You could also opt for creamy accompaniments such as egg custard or coconut milk soup; these provide an almost luxuriant feel when paired with fluffy boiled buns or wontons.
Finally, no Chinese meal would be complete without tea!
Green tea is especially popular with dumpling recipes because its subtle flavor complements rather than overwhelms the delicate filling flavors.
For those who want something stronger, pu’erh tea is another excellent option that pairs wonderfully with Chinese appetizers and snacks like steamed buns or potstickers!
By taking into consideration all these tips before selecting your side dishes for Chinese dumplings, you’ll be sure to have a meal that everyone will enjoy!
what sauce to serve with dumplings
Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sauces. Here are seven of the best sauces to serve with dumplings:
1. Soy Sauce
A classic accompaniment, soy sauce adds a salty depth of flavor to dumplings.
When served with freshly grated ginger and garlic, it creates an irresistible umami-rich dipping sauce.
2. Sweet and Sour Sauce
This Chinese condiment is made from vinegar, sugar, ketchup and soy sauce. With a tangy-sweet flavor, it’s perfect for pan-fried or deep-fried dumplings.
3. Hoisin Sauce
A staple of Cantonese cuisine, hoisin sauce has a sweet-savory flavor derived from fermented bean paste and other ingredients such as garlic and chili pepper powder.
It makes an excellent dipping sauce for boiled or steamed dumplings.
4. Black Vinegar
Made from grain alcohol, black vinegar has a complex sour taste that pairs well with boiled pork or vegetable dumplings. Its pungent aroma also adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
5. Spicy Chili Oil
Red chilies are infused in oil until fragrant and spicy to make this condiment, which is perfect for those who like their food hot!
Mix some chili oil with soy sauce for an extra kick when serving boiled or steamed dumplings.
6. Scallion Oil
Made by frying chopped scallions in oil until golden brown, this bright green condiment is great for adding color to your plate as well as giving steamed or fried dumplings an extra flavorful punch.
7. Oyster Sauce
Also known as Ho Yau Sau in Cantonese cuisine, oyster sauce is made from oyster extractives combined with other ingredients like sugar and salt for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
Try it on steamed or boiled dumplings for an extra dose of umami goodness!
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3 best salads to serve with dumplings
1. Asian Slaw
Asian Slaw salad is a great accompaniment to dumplings as it is light and fresh but still has a lot of flavor.
It combines crunchy cabbage, carrots and bell peppers with an Asian-inspired dressing made from sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey and ginger.
The combination of sweet and savory flavors helps to cut through the richness of the dumplings.
2. Broccoli Salad
Another great salad to serve with dumplings is a broccoli salad.
It pairs well with the savory flavor of dumplings by adding sweetness from dried cranberries or raisins, tartness from diced apples or red onions, nuttiness from slivered almonds, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and yogurt.
3. Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad is a classic salad that is a perfect complement to dumplings due to its bold flavors, such as garlic, anchovies, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce.
The crisp Romaine lettuce provides a nice contrast in texture while also giving the salad bulk, which can help fill you up before indulging in the delicious dumplings!
Wrap Up on what to serve with Chinese dumplings
When it comes to what to serve with Chinese dumplings, there are several options to consider.
These side dishes are a great way to elevate your dumpling game and add some variety to your Chinese meal.
Whether you’re a fan of stir-fried vegetables, pickled cucumbers, or steamed buns, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So next time you’re planning a dumpling feast, be sure to try out some of these side dishes and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
FAQs
How many Chinese dumplings per person?
The number of Chinese dumplings that one person can eat varies greatly depending on individual preference.
As a general rule of thumb, most people feel comfortably full after having around 8-10 dumplings.
For those with a larger appetite or who are looking to enjoy an extra indulgent meal, 12-15 dumplings per person is usually enough to satisfy the cravings.
Chinese dumplings also tend to be quite filling due to their rich ingredients and the large amount of dough used in making them.
So, if you’re sharing among multiple people, it’s usually best to order a few more than what you think you’ll need so you won’t leave anyone feeling deprived!
What vegetables go with dumplings?
Dumplings are a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one meal.
Common vegetable accompaniments for dumplings include mushrooms, cabbage, bok choy, carrots, and onions.
Vegetables like broccoli and turnips can also be added for additional texture and flavor.
To bring out their flavors, these vegetables can be sautéed with garlic and ginger before they’re added to the dumpling mix.
The vegetables should be chopped into small pieces so that they cook quickly when steamed or boiled along with the dumplings.
For an even more flavorful dish, you can always add a few teaspoons of soy sauce or hoisin sauce to the mixture before cooking the dumplings in broth.
What to serve with chicken dumplings for dinner?
Chicken dumplings are a great addition to any dinner. They can be served as an appetizer or main course.
For a complete meal, serve them with steamed vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and snow peas; a side of brown rice or quinoa; and a light salad like a cucumber and tomato salad with feta cheese.
You could also add some crunch to the meal by serving it with roasted peanuts or cashews for additional texture and flavor.
To complete the meal, you could offer an assortment of dipping sauces like soy sauce, spicy chili sauce, or sweet and sour sauce to help bring out the flavors of the dumplings.
what to eat with gyoza dumplings
Gyoza dumplings are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They pair well with a variety of sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even teriyaki sauce.
Additionally, these delicious morsels go great with crisp vegetables like carrots and cabbage.
A light salad with shaved radish or cucumber is also a great accompaniment to gyoza dumplings.
For an added bit of crunch and flavor, try frying the dumplings in sesame oil to give them a nice exterior texture.
Finally, steamed white rice is always a classic side dish for gyoza dumplings that will complete any meal.