Dumplings & Apps

Kimchi Dumplings

Name: Kimchi Dumplings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 20 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground pork; 1 cup (200g) kimchi, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon (15g) grated ginger; 1 tablespoon (15g) soy sauce; 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame oil; 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar; 1/2 teaspoon (2g) salt; 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (120ml) water

By Sable Mowbray · June 19, 2026 · Dumplings & Apps

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total50 min

Serves20

I still remember the first time I had kimchi dumplings at a small Korean restaurant in my neighborhood. The combination of spicy kimchi and savory pork was love at first bite. Since then, I've been on a mission to perfect my own kimchi dumpling recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you today.

Kimchi dumplings are a popular Korean dish that can be found in many restaurants, but making them at home is easier than you think. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create delicious kimchi dumplings that are sure to impress your friends and family.

One of the best things about kimchi dumplings is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. They're also perfect for parties and gatherings, as they can be made in large quantities and are easy to reheat.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of ground pork, kimchi, and Asian spices to create a flavorful and aromatic filling. We'll also be using a simple dough made from flour, water, and salt to wrap our dumplings. Don't worry if you've never made dumplings before - it's easier than you think, and I'll guide you through every step of the way.

So, let's get started and make some delicious kimchi dumplings at home! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kimchi dumplings are easy to make and require minimal ingredients
They're perfect for parties and gatherings, as they can be made in large quantities and are easy to reheat
The combination of spicy kimchi and savory pork is a match made in heaven
Kimchi dumplings are a great way to experience the flavors of Korea without leaving your home
They're a fun and interactive food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages
Kimchi dumplings are a healthy and nutritious food option, as they're low in calories and high in protein

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great kimchi dumplings is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the filling. By using a combination of ground pork, kimchi, and Asian spices, we create a flavorful and aromatic filling that's sure to please. The dough, made from flour, water, and salt, provides a nice texture and helps to keep the filling inside.

Another important aspect of making kimchi dumplings is to cook them at the right temperature. By pan-frying the dumplings, we create a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender and juicy interior. This is achieved by using a combination of high heat and the right amount of oil.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in making kimchi dumplings. By letting the dumplings rest for a few minutes after cooking, we allow the filling to set and the dough to relax, making them easier to eat and more enjoyable to consume.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make kimchi dumplings, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including ground pork, kimchi, and Asian spices. You'll also need a simple dough made from flour, water, and salt to wrap your dumplings. Don't worry if you can't find some of the ingredients at your local grocery store - you can always substitute them with similar ingredients or omit them altogether.

When shopping for ingredients, make sure to choose high-quality products that are fresh and have no added preservatives. This will ensure that your kimchi dumplings turn out delicious and flavorful.

1 lb (450g) ground porkChoose a high-quality ground pork that is fresh and has no added preservatives. You can also use ground beef or a combination of the two if you prefer.
1 cup (200g) kimchi, choppedUse a spicy kimchi that is made with Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) for the best flavor. You can also use a milder kimchi if you prefer.
2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt as a substitute.
1 tablespoon (15g) grated gingerUse fresh ginger for the best flavor. You can also use ground ginger as a substitute.
1 tablespoon (15g) soy sauceUse a high-quality soy sauce that is made with fermented soybeans for the best flavor.
1 tablespoon (15g) sesame oilUse a high-quality sesame oil that is made from roasted sesame seeds for the best flavor.
1 teaspoon (5g) sugarUse granulated sugar for the best flavor. You can also use brown sugar or honey as a substitute.
1/2 teaspoon (2g) saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt as a substitute.
1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flourUse a high-quality all-purpose flour that is made from wheat for the best flavor.
1/2 cup (120ml) waterUse cold water for the best results. You can also use warm water if you prefer a softer dough.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaRolling pinCutting boardLarge skillet or wokInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Kimchi Dumplings

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped kimchi, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and water to make the dough. The dough should be smooth and elastic, but not too sticky. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water. If it's too wet, add a little more flour.
3
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can do this by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
4
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg. You should end up with around 20-25 balls of dough.
5
Roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a rolling pin to help you get the dough thin and even.
6
Place a tablespoon or two of the pork and kimchi filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
7
Repeat with the remaining dough and filling, until you have around 20-25 dumplings.
8
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, and add a couple of tablespoons of oil to the pan. When the oil is hot, add a few of the dumplings to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it.
9
Pan-fry the dumplings for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat as you go, to prevent the dumplings from burning.
10
Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
11
Serve the kimchi dumplings hot, with your favorite dipping sauce. You can also store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months.
12
To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put the sheet in the freezer. Once the dumplings are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
13
To reheat the dumplings, simply pan-fry them again in a little oil, or steam them until they are hot and tender.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don't overmix the filling, or the dumplings may become tough.
Make sure the dough is smooth and elastic, but not too sticky.
Use the right amount of oil when pan-frying the dumplings, to prevent them from sticking to the pan.
Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the dumplings, or they may stick together.
Let the dumplings rest for a few minutes after cooking, to allow the filling to set and the dough to relax.
Experiment with different fillings and seasonings to create your own unique dumpling recipes.
Consider using a dumpling maker or a pastry bag to help you assemble the dumplings more efficiently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the filling, which can make the dumplings tough.
Using too much oil when pan-frying the dumplings, which can make them greasy.
Not cooking the dumplings long enough, which can make them undercooked and raw in the center.
Overcrowding the pan when cooking the dumplings, which can make them stick together.
Not letting the dumplings rest after cooking, which can make them difficult to eat.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dumplings.

Variations and Substitutions

Use different types of meat, such as ground beef or chicken, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped vegetables or herbs, to create a more complex flavor.
Use different types of kimchi, such as spicy kimchi or white kimchi, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add a little sugar or honey to the filling, to balance out the heat from the kimchi.
Use different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rice flour, to create a unique texture.
Add other seasonings, such as soy sauce or sesame oil, to the filling, to create a more complex flavor.
Use a combination of different meats and ingredients to create a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With Kimchi Dumplings

Kimchi dumplings are a versatile food that can be served in many different ways. You can serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. They're also perfect for parties and gatherings, as they can be made in large quantities and are easy to reheat.

Some popular ways to serve kimchi dumplings include with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sesame oil, or with a side of steamed vegetables or rice. You can also serve them in a soup or stew, or use them as a topping for a salad or noodle dish.

Serve with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sesame oilServe with a side of steamed vegetables or riceUse as a topping for a salad or noodle dishServe in a soup or stewServe as an appetizer or side dishServe as a main course

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Kimchi dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put the sheet in the freezer. Once the dumplings are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat the dumplings, simply pan-fry them again in a little oil, or steam them until they are hot and tender. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

When reheating the dumplings, make sure to check their internal temperature to ensure that they are hot and safe to eat. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kimchi?

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radishes, that have been seasoned with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other spices. It's a spicy and sour condiment that's often served with Korean meals.

Can I use different types of kimchi?

Yes, you can use different types of kimchi, such as spicy kimchi or white kimchi, to create a unique flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chili flakes or other seasonings accordingly.

Can I freeze the dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze the dumplings for up to 2 months. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put the sheet in the freezer. Once the dumplings are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat the dumplings?

You can reheat the dumplings by pan-frying them again in a little oil, or steaming them until they are hot and tender. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

Can I use a dumpling maker or pastry bag to help assemble the dumplings?

Yes, you can use a dumpling maker or pastry bag to help assemble the dumplings more efficiently. These tools can help you create uniform dumplings and make the process of assembling them much faster.

What is the best way to store kimchi dumplings?

The best way to store kimchi dumplings is in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as the kimchi can absorb odors easily.

Can I make kimchi dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can make kimchi dumplings ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to cook them. Just be sure to assemble the dumplings just before cooking, as the dough can become soggy if it's exposed to the filling for too long.

What is the internal temperature of cooked kimchi dumplings?

The internal temperature of cooked kimchi dumplings should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can check the internal temperature by inserting a food thermometer into the center of a dumpling.

The Full Recipe

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