Steamed Dumplings Shiitake Kimchi

Name: Steamed Dumplings Shiitake Kimchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped; 1 cup kimchi, chopped; 2 green onions, finely sliced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

Delight in these flavorful steamed dumplings filled with a savory blend of shiitake mushrooms and spicy kimchi.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:50:27.758Z

Steamed dumplings are a beloved dish in many cultures, and this version brings a unique twist with the addition of shiitake mushrooms and kimchi.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and satisfying filling bursting with flavor
Perfectly steamed for a soft and chewy texture
A delightful combination of umami and spice

      

The Joy of Homemade Dumplings

There's something incredibly satisfying about making dumplings from scratch. The process allows you to connect with the ingredients, ensuring each aspect of the dish reflects your personal taste. By preparing the dough and filling at home, you can customize flavors and textures to create a truly unique culinary experience. Plus, the act of folding and sealing each dumpling can be both therapeutic and fun, making it a perfect activity for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon.

Homemade dumplings also offer the opportunity to explore diverse fillings beyond traditional options. In this recipe, the combination of shiitake mushrooms and kimchi creates a delightful umami flavor profile with a kick of spice. This versatility means you can switch up the filling based on what you have on hand or to cater to different dietary preferences, making dumplings an adaptable dish for any occasion.

Perfectly Steamed Texture

Steaming dumplings is an art that leads to a beautifully soft and chewy texture. The gentle heat of the steam cooks the dumplings evenly while retaining moisture, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful. The key to achieving this perfect texture lies in the steaming process itself. Using a bamboo steamer or a metal steamer basket, lined with parchment paper, allows for optimal steam circulation, preventing any stickiness while ensuring thorough cooking.

To enhance your steaming technique, consider adding aromatics to the water, such as ginger or garlic, to infuse a subtle flavor into the dumplings. This not only elevates the taste but also creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, creating an enticing atmosphere that makes these dumplings even more irresistible.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ingredients

Dumpling Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

1 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
1 cup kimchi, chopped
2 green onions, finely sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic

Mix the ingredients thoroughly before filling the dumplings.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, sauté shiitake mushrooms and garlic until softened. Add kimchi, green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Assemble the Dumplings

Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold the dough over, and pinch to seal.

Steam the Dumplings

Place dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for about 15 minutes until cooked through.

Serve with soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover dumplings, you'll be pleased to know they store well in the refrigerator or freezer. To store, place the cooled dumplings in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In the refrigerator, they'll last for up to three days, while in the freezer, they can be enjoyed for up to three months. Just be sure to steam them directly from frozen for a quick meal.

When reheating, steaming is the best method to maintain their texture. Place the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them for a crispy bottom, adding a splash of water and covering the pan to allow them to steam as they cook.

Nutritional Benefits

These steamed dumplings not only satisfy your taste buds but also offer a range of nutritional benefits. Shiitake mushrooms are renowned for their immune-boosting properties and are rich in vitamins B and D, which support energy metabolism and bone health. Kimchi, a fermented food, is packed with probiotics that promote gut health and aid digestion, making these dumplings a nourishing choice.

Furthermore, the use of fresh vegetables like green onions adds an extra layer of vitamins and minerals. This makes the dumplings a balanced dish, providing a good source of protein and fiber, perfect for a hearty meal that is both delicious and good for you. Enjoying them as part of a varied diet can contribute to overall wellness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked dumplings. Just steam them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for kimchi?

If you don't have kimchi, you can use finely chopped cabbage mixed with a bit of chili paste for a similar flavor.

→ How do I know when the dumplings are done?

Dumplings are done when they are translucent and the dough is cooked through, usually about 15 minutes of steaming.

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can substitute shiitake mushrooms with button or oyster mushrooms based on your preference.