There’s something truly special about the vibrant flavors wrapped up in my Lucky Money Bag Dumplings. Picture a cozy kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of ginger and cilantro, a scent that instantly transports me to my favorite dim sum spot. I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with plant-based ingredients, and let me tell you, the sheer joy of a dumpling that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat is both thrilling and rewarding.
These dumplings are not just a feast for the eyes; they bring a delightful crunch from water chestnuts and a savory depth from vegan ground pork, making them an unforgettable addition to your meal rotation. Plus, the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, promising to impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat.
With a bit of prep and steaming magic, you can serve up these little bundles of joy in just 45 minutes—perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy dinner at home. So roll up your sleeves and let’s create some culinary luck together!
Why will you love Lucky Money Bag Dumpling?
Deliciously unique: These dumplings combine crispy Napa cabbage with a savory filling, resulting in an irresistible flavor explosion.
Quick prep time: Ready in just 45 minutes, they’re perfect for a wholesome homemade dinner or a fun weekend project.
Impressive visual appeal: Their charming bag shape makes them a standout dish for gatherings, wowing your guests effortlessly.
Healthy alternative: Packed with fresh vegetables and plant-based protein, you can indulge without the guilt.
Endless customization: Feel free to experiment with fillings or dipping sauces, ensuring each batch is uniquely yours!
Lucky Money Bag Dumpling Ingredients
For the Dumpling Filling
• Vegan ground pork – this provides a savory base; I recommend OmniPork for the best flavor.
• Light soy sauce – enhances the umami flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Vegan oyster sauce – adds a rich depth of flavor; keep extra for drizzling on top.
• Celery – finely chopped, it adds a delightful crunch.
• Water chestnuts – fresh and chopped for that extra crunch in every bite.
• Carrot – chopped finely to add sweetness and color.
• Salt – a little helps to season the filling well.
• White pepper – offers a mild kick; adjust according to preference.
• Sesame oil – add a touch for that nutty aroma.
For the Cabbage Wraps
• Napa cabbage leaves – use only the green part; they must be pliable for wrapping.
• Cilantro stems – perfect for tying your lucky money bags; their flavor complements the filling.
For the Sauce
• Ginger – sliced to sauté until aromatic, boosting the dish’s flavor profile.
• Cornstarch – creates a slurry for thickening the sauce; combine with water for the right consistency.
• Cooking oil – used for sautéing ginger and preventing sticking.
• Water – for blanched cabbage leaves and saucing the dumplings.
Now that you have all the ingredients for your Lucky Money Bag Dumpling, get ready to dive into cooking! Each step is filled with love, and before you know it, you’ll be savoring these delightful dumplings with your loved ones.
How to Make Lucky Money Bag Dumpling
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Combine your two packages of OmniPork Ground in a large mixing bowl. Add light soy sauce, ½ tablespoon vegan oyster sauce, salt, white pepper, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir everything in one direction until well incorporated. Fold in the chopped celery and water chestnuts and let it rest or refrigerate.
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Prepare a bowl of ice water while bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add ½ teaspoon salt and a splash of cooking oil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for about 45 seconds until they soften, then move them to the ice water bath. Blanch the cilantro stems for 1 minute until pliable, then cool them in the water as well.
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Drain the blanched leaves and gently squeeze out the excess water, ensuring they are still tender and flexible for wrapping.
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Shape a cabbage leaf by flapping one side over to form a circle, covering any holes to prevent the filling from escaping.
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Fill the center with a spoonful of the prepared filling. Bring the sides of the leaf up to secure the mixture tightly at the top, creating a dumpling.
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Tie each dumpling by placing it bottom-side down on a work surface and wrapping a cilantro stem around the base, forming a cute bag shape. Arrange them on a plate (8-9 per plate) and steam separately. Top with finely chopped carrots for added color.
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Steam the dumplings for 6-8 minutes over high heat until tender. Carefully lift the dumplings to a new plate and reserve the juice for making the sauce.
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Sauté in a large non-stick pan with a bit of oil, adding in the ginger slices until fragrant. Pour in the reserved dumpling juice and 2 tablespoons of water, seasoning with more vegan oyster sauce to taste. Thicken the mixture with a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Repeat with any remaining dumplings, then spoon the sauce over before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh pop!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Lucky Money Bag Dumpling
Fridge: Keep cooked dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little oil to restore their delightful texture.
Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For frozen dumplings, steam straight from the freezer for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. Enjoy them freshly steamed for the best taste!
Tip: Storing leftover sauce in a separate container in the fridge will keep it fresh for drizzling later.
Make Ahead Options
These Lucky Money Bag Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (vegan ground pork mixture) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can blanch the cabbage leaves and cilantro stems a day before and refrigerate them, ensuring they stay pliable. When you’re ready to enjoy your dumplings, simply wrap the filling in the prepared leaves and steam for 6-8 minutes. For the sauce, sauté ginger and add the reserved dumpling juice and seasonings just before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy effortless, delicious home-cooked meals on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Lucky Money Bag Dumpling?
Imagine a table filled with warm, inviting dishes that complement the delightful crunch and flavor of your dumplings, creating a truly memorable meal.
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Coconut Rice: This creamy side brings a subtle sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory umami of the dumplings. Its fluffy texture makes each bite a delight.
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Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a vibrant crunch that’s a great contrast to the soft dumpling texture. It’s light and invigorating.
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Miso Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of miso soup provides a cozy companion. With its umami-rich broth, it enhances the flavors of the dumplings beautifully.
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Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Crisp and slightly garlicky, sautéed bok choy adds a burst of green to your plate, complementing the richness of the filling while retaining its fresh crunch.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: This sticky, spicy-sweet dipping sauce brightens the dish, creating a delicious contrast with the savory dumplings. A little drizzle can elevate your dining experience!
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea offers a soothing finish, cleansing the palate and providing a gentle contrast to the flavors of your dumplings.
These pairings will not only enhance the Lucky Money Bag Dumpling but also create an inviting meal that charms everyone at the table!
Lucky Money Bag Dumpling Variations
Feel free to switch things up and make these dumplings your own with these delightful ideas!
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Spicy Kick: Add some chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili oil to the filling for a flavor boost that brings the heat.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs—try basil or mint instead of cilantro for a fresh twist that adds unique flavor.
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Zucchini Swap: Replace vegan ground pork with finely grated zucchini to make a lighter, veggie-packed alternative that’s just as satisfying.
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Crispy Texture: Incorporate a handful of toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts into the filling for extra crunch and surprise in every bite.
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Vegan Cheese: Stir in some shredded vegan cheese for a cheesy, rich filling that melts beautifully as you steam the dumplings.
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Sweet Surprise: Add diced mushrooms or finely chopped bell peppers for a hint of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory elements.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out soy sauce for a gluten-free version and use rice paper wraps instead of cabbage for a delightful twist on traditional dumplings.
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Savory Sauce Variations: Elevate your serving sauce with a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to enhance the aromatic flavor profile further.
Expert Tips for Lucky Money Bag Dumpling
Blanch Carefully: Make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves just long enough to soften them, about 45 seconds. Over-blanching can cause them to become limp and difficult to handle.
Squeeze Gently: After draining, gently squeeze the blanched leaves to remove excess water while keeping their tenderness intact. This prevents sogginess in your Lucky Money Bag Dumpling.
Secure Filling: When folding the dumpling, ensure you securely wrap the filling to avoid leaks during steaming. Use enough cabbage to fully enclose the mixture.
Flavor Adjustment: Taste your filling before wrapping. You can always add more soy sauce or vegan oyster sauce to suit your palate.
Steam in Batches: Steam in small batches to avoid overcrowding in your steamer. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from sticking together.
Sauce Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch slurry according to your preference for sauce thickness. If too thick, add a little water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Lucky Money Bag Dumpling Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe Napa cabbage leaves?
Absolutely! Look for leaves that are vibrant green and free of dark spots or wilting. The leaves should feel crisp and firm to the touch, indicating freshness. If you find any leaves that are limp or have yellowing edges, it’s best to opt for another bunch.
What’s the best way to store leftover dumplings?
Very! After cooking, let the dumplings cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a gentle sauté in a skillet with a bit of oil is perfect for restoring their texture and flavor.
Can I freeze my Lucky Money Bag Dumplings?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked dumplings, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until firm. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, making sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 months—just steam them from frozen for about 10-12 minutes when you’re ready to indulge!
What if my dumplings are falling apart during steaming?
No worries! If this happens, it might be due to the cabbage leaves being too thin or not securing the filling tightly enough. Make sure to use strong, intact leaves and wrap the filling securely. Additionally, avoid overcooking the dumplings, as this can cause them to become mushy. Steaming them for about 6-8 minutes should help maintain their structure.
Are Lucky Money Bag Dumplings safe for those with allergies?
Very! These dumplings are plant-based and don’t contain any common allergens like dairy or meat, making them a great choice for many. However, if you’re cooking for someone with a specific allergy, especially to soy sauce or sesame oil, I recommend using alternatives like coconut amino acids and sunflower oil. Always double-check the ingredient labels for any potential allergens.
Can pets eat Lucky Money Bag Dumplings?
Not really! While the filling is primarily made up of vegetables, it’s important to keep dumplings away from pets, especially those containing soy sauce and sesame oil, as these can be harmful. If you’re looking to share some love with your furry friends, consider preparing a separate, pet-friendly version using safe ingredients.
Delicious Lucky Money Bag Dumpling Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine your two packages of OmniPork Ground in a large mixing bowl. Add light soy sauce, ½ tablespoon vegan oyster sauce, salt, white pepper, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir everything in one direction until well incorporated. Fold in the chopped celery and water chestnuts and let it rest or refrigerate.
- Prepare a bowl of ice water while bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add ½ teaspoon salt and a splash of cooking oil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for about 45 seconds until they soften, then move them to the ice water bath. Blanch the cilantro stems for 1 minute until pliable, then cool them in the water as well.
- Drain the blanched leaves and gently squeeze out the excess water, ensuring they are still tender and flexible for wrapping.
- Shape a cabbage leaf by flapping one side over to form a circle, covering any holes to prevent the filling from escaping.
- Fill the center with a spoonful of the prepared filling. Bring the sides of the leaf up to secure the mixture tightly at the top, creating a dumpling.
- Tie each dumpling by placing it bottom-side down on a work surface and wrapping a cilantro stem around the base, forming a cute bag shape. Arrange them on a plate (8-9 per plate) and steam separately. Top with finely chopped carrots for added color.
- Steam the dumplings for 6-8 minutes over high heat until tender. Carefully lift the dumplings to a new plate and reserve the juice for making the sauce.
- Sauté in a large non-stick pan with a bit of oil, adding in the ginger slices until fragrant. Pour in the reserved dumpling juice and 2 tablespoons of water, seasoning with more vegan oyster sauce to taste. Thicken the mixture with a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Repeat with any remaining dumplings, then spoon the sauce over before serving. Enjoy them warm!