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