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+ servings
napa cabbage dumplings
Carmen Spillette

Cabbage Dumplings

5 from 3 votes
These cabbage dumplings are juicy, savory, and wrapped in tender napa cabbage instead of traditional wrappers. Perfect for a quick and easy low-carb or gluten-free option.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 365

Ingredients
  

For the Dumplings
  • 12 napa cabbage leaves
For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 stalks green onion finely minced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ cup grated carrots
  • ½ cup shiitake mushrooms finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Serve with
  • Chili oil
  • Soy sauce

Method
 

  1. Prep the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the napa cabbage leaves for 30 seconds until just softened. Remove and pat dry with paper towels. Trim the thick stems for easier folding if needed.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, green onions, garlic, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, vegetarian oyster sauce, cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Dumplings: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of filling into the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom to form a tight bundle. Repeat with remaining leaves.
  4. Cook the Dumplings: Pan-fry Method: In a large non-stick pan, add a bit of oil and place dumplings seam-side down. Add ¼ cup of water, cover with a lid, and cook over medium heat until the water evaporates and the bottoms are golden and crispy (about 8–10 minutes).
  5. Steam Method: Steam the dumplings in a lined steamer basket for 8–10 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked through.
  6. Serve: Enjoy warm with a dipping sauce of chili oil and soy sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 4gCalories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 21gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 325mgPotassium: 627mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 275IUVitamin C: 24mgCalcium: 85mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch of the filling and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just blanch the cabbage and wrap. It saves time and keeps the dumplings fresh and juicy.
Tips for success:
  • Use a food processor to mince the veggies quickly.
  • Make sure the filling is cold when wrapping for easier handling.
  • Trim the cabbage stems to help the dumplings fold neatly.

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