How to Make Vegan Vietnamese Dumplings
Vegan Vietnamese dumplings, known as bánh xếp, are a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. These handmade dumplings are filled with a savory mix of vegetables and spices, making them a wholesome and satisfying meal or appetizer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own vegan Vietnamese dumplings at home.
Ingredients
For the dumpling dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 cup grated carrots
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Making the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the boiling water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until the mixture begins to come together.
3. Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling
1. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped mushrooms, and cook until they are soft.
3. Stir in the grated carrots, chopped green onions, and shredded cabbage. Sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat, allowing the filling to cool.
Assembling the Dumplings
1. Divide the rested dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
3. Place about 1-2 teaspoons of the vegetable filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal. You can also pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
Cooking the Dumplings
You can choose to steam, pan-fry, or boil the dumplings, depending on your preference:
Steaming
1. Set up a steamer and line it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
2. Place the dumplings in the steamer, ensuring they don’t touch.
3. Steam for about 15-20 minutes until the dough is cooked through.
Pan-Frying
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
2. Arrange the dumplings in the skillet and fry until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add a splash of water to the pan, cover, and steam for an additional 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
Boiling
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water.
3. Once they float to the top, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your vegan Vietnamese dumplings with a side of soy sauce, chili sauce, or a homemade dipping sauce made with lime juice, garlic