Easy Homemade Thai Dumplings

These Thai Pork Dumplings (Kanom Jeeb) are a delicious and healthy take on traditional steamed dumplings. Packed with a flavorful pork filling, these dumplings are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or dim sum-style dish. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving homemade dumplings, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible Thai flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Thai Flavor: A perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich seasonings.
• Healthy & Steamed: A lighter alternative to fried dumplings.
• Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, snacks, or meal prep.
• Easy to Make: Simple rolling and steaming instructions.
• Customizable: Swap pork for chicken or add more veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:

• 14 oz ground pork
• 1⅛ oz carrots, finely chopped
• ⅓ oz coriander root, minced
• 1⅓ oz green onions, finely chopped
• ⅓ oz dried shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated and chopped
• ⅓ oz garlic, minced
• ¼ oz black peppercorns, crushed
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp Golden Mountain sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2½ tbsp oyster sauce
• 1½ tbsp white sugar
• 1½ tbsp sesame oil

For Assembly & Garnish:

• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Garlic oil, for brushing
• Crispy fried garlic, for topping

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground pork, carrots, coriander root, green onions, garlic, and shiitake mushrooms.
2. Add crushed black peppercorns, cornstarch, egg, Golden Mountain sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Stir until well combined and sticky. Cover and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.

2. Assemble the Dumplings:

1. Place a dumpling wrapper in your palm and add 1 teaspoon of filling to the center.
2. Lightly moisten the edges with water.
3. Gently gather the edges around the filling, leaving the top slightly open. Press lightly to seal.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers.

3. Steam the Dumplings:

1. Line a steamer with parchment paper or lightly brush with garlic oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, ensuring they do not touch.
3. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until the pork is fully cooked.

4. Serve & Garnish:

1. Remove the dumplings from the steamer and brush with a little garlic oil.
2. Sprinkle crispy fried garlic on top.
3. Serve warm with soy sauce, chili sauce, or Thai dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 40 dumplings
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Dumplings: Swap pork for ground chicken or turkey.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped chili or sriracha to the filling.
• Extra Crunch: Mix in finely chopped water chestnuts.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months. Steam from frozen for 15-18 minutes.
• Reheating: Steam for 5 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of dried shiitake?

Yes! Use about ¼ cup finely chopped fresh mushrooms instead.

What is Golden Mountain sauce?

It’s a Thai soy sauce with a slightly sweeter and deeper flavor than regular soy sauce.

Can I fry these dumplings instead?

Yes! Pan-fry in oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then steam with a splash of water for another 2 minutes.

What dipping sauce pairs well with these dumplings?

Try a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and freeze the dumplings before steaming for easy meal prep.

What’s the best way to prevent dumplings from sticking?

Use parchment paper, lightly oil the steamer, or place cabbage leaves under the dumplings.

Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers?

Yes! Most Asian grocery stores carry them in the refrigerated section.

How do I make the dumpling wrappers from scratch?

Mix 2 cups flour, ½ cup water, and a pinch of salt, knead until smooth, and roll into thin circles.

Can I add shrimp to the filling?

Absolutely! Substitute ¼ of the pork with finely chopped shrimp for a seafood variation.

What’s the difference between Thai dumplings and Chinese dumplings?

Thai dumplings (Kanom Jeeb) have a slightly sweeter, more aromatic filling with fish sauce or Golden Mountain sauce, while Chinese dumplings often use soy sauce and rice wine.

Conclusion

These Quick & Healthy Thai Pork Dumplings are a fantastic way to enjoy authentic Thai flavors at home. Whether steamed, pan-fried, or frozen for later, they make a delicious appetizer or snack. Try them today and impress your guests with homemade dumplings full of bold, savory goodness!

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