Men's Weekly

.

10 Dumpling Fillings You Need to Try (Beyond Pork and Chive)

  • Written by Auzzi Shopping

Dumplings are one of the most versatile dishes in Asian cuisine, loved for their delicate wrappers and endless filling possibilities. While pork and chive dumplings remain a classic favourite, the world of dumplings extends far beyond this traditional combination. Whether you’re preparing them at home or enjoying a shared banquet, exploring unique fillings can transform your dining experience into a true culinary adventure. For those who enjoy a mix of flavours, exploring delectable dumpling platter delights can introduce you to new tastes that go well beyond the expected.

Chicken and Mushroom

A comforting blend of tender chicken with earthy shiitake mushrooms, this filling offers a hearty yet delicate balance that pairs beautifully with soy-based dipping sauces.

Beef and Kimchi

Adding a Korean twist, spicy kimchi enhances the richness of minced beef, delivering a punch of heat and tanginess that wakes up the palate.

Prawn and Garlic Chive

Juicy prawn paired with fragrant garlic chive creates a light yet flavour-packed dumpling filling, perfect for steaming or pan-frying.

Lamb and Coriander

A bold option for those who love robust flavours, the combination of lamb and fresh coriander provides a savoury bite with a refreshing edge.

Pumpkin and Feta

This vegetarian delight balances sweet roasted pumpkin with creamy, salty feta – an unexpected fusion that works beautifully in dumplings.

Duck and Hoisin

Richer than chicken but equally versatile, duck combined with hoisin sauce creates a slightly sweet and aromatic filling reminiscent of classic Peking duck.

Tofu and Spinach

Perfect for plant-based eaters, tofu and spinach bring a wholesome, nutrient-rich option to the dumpling table while absorbing flavours from ginger and sesame oil.

Crab and Sweetcorn

A lighter, seafood-forward option, the sweetness of crab meat and corn makes for a luxurious yet comforting filling that’s especially good in steamed dumplings.

Eggplant and Black Bean

This vegan-friendly filling uses silky eggplant and savoury black bean sauce for a smoky, umami-packed option that’s anything but ordinary.

Chicken, Lemongrass and Chilli

Fragrant lemongrass and the gentle heat of fresh chilli elevate minced chicken into a zesty, aromatic filling with a Southeast Asian twist.

Bon Appetit!

Dumplings offer a canvas for creativity, with endless opportunities to experiment with flavour and texture. By venturing beyond the traditional pork and chive, you open yourself up to a wide world of unique and mouth-watering combinations. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, ordering a platter for a celebration, or simply treating yourself, trying different fillings is the perfect way to expand your dumpling horizons.