Looking for a quick snack that’s crispy, satisfying and a little different from your usual routine? Then, your going to love this rice paper dumpling recipe! It is crunchy on the outside, soft and flavourful inside, and totally customizable.

Let’s dive into this viral, easy to make recipe that’s taken over kitchens for all the right reasons.

What are Rice Paper Dumplings?

Rice paper dumplings are a modern twist on traditional dumplings. Instead of using flour based wrappers, these dumplings are wrapped in rice paper. Yes, the same rice paper used for fresh spring rolls.

When pan fried, rice paper becomes crispy and golden outside. On the inside? It is soft with a mix of vegetables, tofu or meat of your choice.

These rice paper dumplings are:

• Gluten free ( pending on the filling)
• Perfect for meal prep
• Crunchy, chewy and very delicious

A quote from one of our readers.

I tried these on a lazy Sunday and ended up making three more times that week. It is without a doubt my best new favourite snack. – Natalie R, reader

Why You’ll Love These Rice Paper Dumplings

* Quick & Easy

The whole cooking process from start to finish takes less than 30 minutes. It is great for weeknight dinners, snacks or  party appetizers.

* Customisable

Vegan? Gluten Free? Meat? No problem. Adjust the filling to your taste or what’s available on your fridge. The result? Still delicious and healthy!

* Crispy, Crunchy & Chewy

The texture is unbeatable! It is soft inside, but crispy outside. It is crunchy with each bite.

” Even my peaky 5 year old daughter asked for more. It NEVER happens with veggies! ” – Maria T, mom of two.

 

Ingredients You’ll Need for this Rice Paper Dumpling

These dumplings are super flexible. Use any ingredients you have available at home. Here is a list of some basic ingredients you can start with.

Base Filling :

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 block firm Tofu ( crumbled, optional, meat can be used instead of Tofu)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Wrapping:

• 8 – 10 sheets of rice paper ( round shape)
• Oil for pan frying

Tip: you can use leftover chicken, beef or ground pork as meaty version.

 

 

How to make Rice Paper Dumplings

Step by Step

This is a no stress recipe. You’ll be surprised to see how easy it is to make this rice paper dumplings

Step 1: Prep Your Filling

Sauté cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, garlic, ginger and tofu ( if using) or meat ( if using) in sesame oil. Add soy sauce, salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5 – 6 minutes, until all the ingredients are soft and tender. You will start smelling all the different flavours. After 6 minutes, let the filling cool down slightly.

Step 2: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow plate or pan with warm water. Dip in one sheet of rice paper for 5 seconds, until is soft and elastic. The Rice paper should be soft and elastic, so it can be easily rolled up.

Lay the soaked rice paper in a clean surface or a damp cutting board.

Step 3: Wrap it up

Spoon 1 – 2 tablespoons of the filling in the centre of the rice paper. Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling. Then fold in the sides and roll it like a mini burrito.

For extra crispiness, wrap the dumpling in a second sheet of soaked rice paper.

Step 4 : Pan fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat a non stick pan with 1 – 2 tablespoons of oil. Place the dumplings seam – side down. Cook on medium heat for 2 – 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

” I used an air fryer at 375’F (185’C) for 8 minutes, turning it halfway. It turned out amazing! @foodie_kim on Instagram

 

Ready to Serve!

After you completed the pan fry of the rice paper dumplings let it cool slightly. You can serve different kind of dipping sauce with you rice paper dumplings.

 

Dipping Sauce Ideas

No dumpling is complete without a good dip! Try these easy dipping sauce ideas.

 

Classic Soy Sauce Dip

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsb chilli flakes

 

Peanut Chilli Sauce

• 1 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp chilli paste
• 1 tsp line juice

Sweet Garlic Sauce

• 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• Splash of water to thin the sauce

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don’t soak rice paper too long: It’ll tear easily. 5 -7 seconds is enough
• Over stuffing : Keep the filling minimal. Too much filling makes it hard to roll the dumplings.
• Using too little oil: You need enough to pan fry the dumplings to get the golden crispy finish.

 

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a new go to snack, that is healthy, quick and not heavy?! Than rice paper dumplings hits the mark. These dumplings are flexible, fun to make and delicious to eat.

Try this rice paper dumplings today. Use the ingredients you have at home. All you need is rice paper, veggies and a pan.