There are so many side options you can serve with dumplings. You can eat dumplings as an appetizer, a side, or a main meal. Traditionally, dumplings are eaten with a dipping sauce, broth, salad, etc.
Pairing dumplings with other food items can be a little tricky. When picking what to eat alongside dumplings, pick something with a mild taste that will not suppress its delicate flavor and texture.
To help you get the best culinary experience, I have put together this list of side dishes you can have with dumplings at different mealtimes.
What are dumplings?
Dumplings are small pieces of dough with fillings of meats, vegetables, cheese, seafood, and sometimes fruits. They initially originated in Asia but have now spread into regions of South America, Europe, and Africa.
Each region developed its unique recipe, created a variety of flavors, and a unique name for its dumplings.
For instance, the Chinese call theirs wontons and jiaozi, gyoza and shumai are names for Japanese-style dumplings, mandu for Koreans, some parts of Europe have pierogi and knödel, and South Americans have empanadas and arepas.
The taste of dumplings is best described as sweet and savory. Their taste profile comes from the combination of ingredients they contain. Dumplings can be boiled, steamed, pan-fried, deep-fried, or baked, depending on your personal preferences.
What to serve with dumplings
1. Chicken noodle soup
Chicken noodle soup is a rich bowl of flavored broth with chicken, noodles, and veggies like mushrooms and carrots. Pairing it with dumplings is a perfect meal for chilly or solo night dates.
2. Sushi rolls
If you have dumplings as part of the variety of meals on a large table, sushi rolls should make the table too. Serve with teriyaki dip to create a complex but appetizing blend of textures and flavors.
3. Chicken stir-fry noodles
Looking for a meal that will appeal to your Chinese friends from work? Make stir-fry noodles and Chinese dumplings. Make sure the chicken is tender enough and you are generous with soy sauce and chili paste.
The rich flavor and texture of this noodle dish make it a great pair for dumplings. This meal can be eaten for lunch, dinner, or at a get-together with friends.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli is a perfect choice for a simple side to eat with dumplings. If you can lay your hands on Chinese broccoli, great! Broccoli has an earthy and slightly bitter taste. You can make s stir-fry with oyster sauce if you want something tastier.
This is a combination of two different textures and flavors that balance each other. You can make your meal heartier and more nutritious by adding some protein.
5. Orange chicken
Orange chicken is a classic Chinese side that appears on almost every table where there is a bowl of dumplings. The sweet and sour taste of orange chicken balances the savory taste of the dumplings without being overwhelming.
6. Mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes by itself is a comforting and filling dish. Pair it with a plate of steamed, boiled, or stir-fried dumplings makes it even more. You should try it soon. While this works well with about every version of dumplings, you’ll enjoy it more with European dumplings.
7. Baked mozzarella pasta
You can say Asian dumplings are to noodle dishes and European dumplings are to pasta dishes. Make your baked mozzarella pasta creamy and flavorful with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. You can add chili for a kick of heat.
8. Roasted veggies
Gather your favorite veggies – potatoes, carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts – in a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and add some oregano, rosemary, pepper, and salt.
Roast in the oven for 400°F for 25 to 25 minutes, tossing and rotating halfway through. Serve with your favorite dumplings.
9. Kimchi pancake
Kimchi pancakes, by themselves, are delicious with their crispy edges, soft center, and spicy sour taste. Pairing them with dumplings creates a combination of spicy, sour, and tangy tastes on your palate.
Moreover, if you are drawn to the physical appearance of meals, your appetite will be stirred by this combination on your plate.
10. Pork belly
Pork belly adds a luxurious twist to your meal. The rich meatiness balances the light texture of the dumplings. Serve pork belly with a spicy sauce for a more robust flavor.
11. Stir-fried veggies
Stir-fry veggies takes almost no time to get ready, as long as you have your veggies on hand. Make the stir-fry moist with your oyster sauce and create exciting flavors with ginger and some herbs.
Try not to overcook your veggies so they maintain their vibrant colors and crisp texture which is the excitement your meal needs.
12. Bok choy
If you do not want anything dramatic or complex, serve dumplings with sautéed bok choy. Do not overcook your green so it retains its natural flavor and crunch which you need to complement the soft texture of the dumplings.
13. Miso soup
Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of miso soup? You can have dumplings and miso soup on a cold night, while you work late or at any time of the day. Miso soup is great with other versions of dumplings but you will love it better with Chinese dumplings.
14. Shrimp scampi
Shrimp scampi is an Italian-American dish of succulent shrimp tossed with garlic, butter, lemon, pepper flakes, and dry white wine. Most people eat shrimp scampi with pasta but it tastes great with dumplings too.
15. Hot and sour soup
If you prefer to eat your dumplings with spicy soups, here’s hot and sour soup. It is a simple soup that boasts robust flavors and spice. While you can have this combination at any time of the day, you’ll appreciate it better on cold nights.
16. Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a cajun-inspired rice dish that features chicken, shrimp, sausages, and spices. Whipping up a new plate for dumplings can be tiring. If you have any leftovers, reheat it and serve with dumplings for lunch.
17. Grilled asparagus
Wondering what to eat with those dumplings you just made? Gather those tender asparagus from your backyard garden. Grill them with a vinaigrette dressing and serve with dumplings to enjoy the blend of textures and flavors.
18. Quesadilla
If you do not have a large appetite, you may not be able to take this pair. Quesadillas and dumplings can be indulging and filling when eaten separately. Combining the two, though delicious, can be too much for your belly. But if you don’t mind, good to go!
19. Fried rice
Fried rice is an award-winning meal. It pairs well with so many dishes. If you want to give yourself a feel of Asian cuisine at home, make Chinese fried rice and serve it with Chinese dumplings.
20. Seafood paella
Seafood paella is a delicious rice dish made with rice, saffron, shrimp, mussels, clams, and other seafood. Pair with dumplings for a luxurious culinary experience. If you are ordering for dinner, remember to wash it down with your favorite bottle of white wine.
21. Chicken Marsala
Chicken marsala is so many things in one dish. How about enjoying this plate of goodness with those soft and succulent dumplings? If you don’t mind having more on your plate, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
22. Coconut soup
Soup and dumplings make a perfect comfort food on chilly nights. Try pairing your next dumplings meal with Thai coconut soup.
23. Beef chili
Beef chili is a perfect comfort food. One way to eat it with dumplings is to allow them to soak up the chili sauce. This is a filling meal you can have alone for dinner.
24. Caramelized salmon
Here’s a fish dish you can pair with dumplings. Make caramelized salmon fillets and serve with lemon slices for a zesty twist.
25. Egg drop soup
Egg drop soup is a light soup that pairs well with dumplings. Moreover, it is easy and takes almost no time to get ready if all your ingredients are available.
26. Quinoa
Quinoa is a healthy side option to eat with dumplings. You can cook it plain with a little seasoning or make a very flavorful meal with veggies. Either way, it tastes great with European or Chinese dumplings.
27. Char siu roasted eggplants
Char siu is a traditional Asian cooking style for flavoring roasted pork to make it sweet and savory. Use this same method to make roasted eggplant and serve with dumplings.
28. Tofu
Tofu and dumplings make a delectable pair. The crispy, crunchy, and soft texture of tofu merging with succulent dumplings is something you should give your palate.
29. Salad
From a simple cucumber salad to a rich bowl of salad with all your favorite veggies, protein, and dressing. Dumplings and salad should make every garden party menu. The texture and flavor contrast perfectly keep the spotlight on those delicious dumplings.
30. Spring rolls
Crunchy spring rolls paired with your favorite spicy dipping sauce and Chinese dumplings is a must-try. The crispy and crunchy textures of the spring rolls perfectly balance the soft juicy filling of dumplings. You should try this soon.
31. Stir-fried peas
Peas make great accompaniments for a wide variety of meals. The good thing is that stir-fry peas is a traditional Chinese meal. Why not try it with those Chinese dumplings?
Try not to overcook the peas so they maintain their vibrant green hue and crunch.
32. Teriyaki meatballs
The savory flavor and mild sweet notes of teriyaki meatballs make them a great accompaniment with dumplings. You can make teriyaki sauce with leftover meatballs if you have any.
33. Mochi
Create a complete Asian cuisine with mochi and dumplings. The subtle sweet taste and chewy texture of mochi blend well with the soft succulent texture of dumplings. Serve with sweetened soy sauce or red bean paste.
34. Scrambled eggs with zucchini
Make hearty scrambled eggs with zucchini and serve as a side with dumplings. Sauté the zucchini before adding it to the eggs so it is not too hard in the eggs.
Sauces to serve with dumplings
35. Black bean sauce
Black bean sauce can be served as a dipping or drizzle sauce for dumplings. You will get it on the menu if you are eating dumplings in an Asian restaurant. If you are making dumplings at home, you can also use an online recipe to make black bean sauce.
36. Chinese brown sauce
Chinese brown sauce has soy sauce, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and sweet bean paste. You can serve as a dip or drizzle over your dumplings for a juicy culinary experience.
37. Honey mustard sauce
The same mustard sauce you use with your BBQ chicken will pair well with dumplings. You can add chili paste to give more depth to the flavor.
38. Hummus
Creamy spicy hummus makes a perfect dip for pan-fried dumplings. The hummus and dumplings tastes do not mix so you can get the best of both worlds.
39. Guacamole
Guacamole is a delicious Mexican dip that tastes great with Chinese dumplings. It can be eaten as a dip, side, and dessert. You can make your guacamole creamier and tastier with cheddar cheese and tortilla chips.
40. Sweet and sour sauce
Sweet and sour sauce features vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, from which this sauce gets its name. Dipping dumplings in this sauce helps amplify their flavor and makes them juicier. You can make it spicier by adding some chili.
41. Creamy ginger soy sauce
If you visit a restaurant that offers Chinese dumplings, creamy ginger soy sauce will most likely be on the list of sauces that accompany your meal. It truly tastes great and you should try it.
42. Sweet chili and ginger sauce
This sauce adds sweet, spicy, and nutty notes to the savory flavor of dumplings. You can create a hearty tray with veggies or a small rice dish. Buy your favorite brand and dip with dumplings.
43. Chinese curry sauce
Chinese curry sauce and Chinese dumplings make a tasty meal. You can use this sauce as a dip or drizzle it over the dumplings, so they soak up the juiciness and flavors. There are several brands in the store you can buy.
44. Peanut sauce
Peanut sauce is usually eaten with noodles, tofu, and grilled meats, but it tastes great with dumplings too. It is also a healthy choice because it doesn’t use sugar like some other sauces. Add soy sauce for more depth of flavor.
45. Teriyaki sauce
If you do not have any sauce for dipping dumplings, make a quick teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, rice wine vinegar, sugar, chili flakes and sesame seeds. It’s that easy to make. Enjoy the robust flavor with soft and succulent dumplings.
46. Roasted tomato sauce
Many people do not like tomato sauce because it tastes bland. If you can take the extra time to roast your tomatoes before making the sauce, I bet you’ll have a change of mind. Add chili sauce or hoisin for extra depth of flavor and serve with dumplings.
47. Tahini sauce
If you like heavy sauces, you will appreciate tahini sauce. It is not only flavorful, it is also healthy. Be generous with the lemon juice for a zesty and tangy twist. You can add chili oil if you want a spicy sauce.
FAQs
How long can you store dumplings?
Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days and 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
How can you tell leftover dumplings have gone bad?
You can tell leftover dumplings are rotten by presence of gray spots on the body, a sour smell, cracks, and the protruding stuffings on the edges of the dumplings.
What drinks pair well with dumplings?
You can wash down dumplings with a glass of light wine, a cup of green tea, sake, lemonade, Chinese tea, whiskey, and ale.
Can dumplings be part of your everyday diet?
Dumplings can be healthy and make a part of your everyday diet if you make them with healthy ingredients like lean meats and veggies.
Also, the nutritional value of your dumplings depends on the method of cooking you used. The healthiest ways to cook dumplings is steaming and boiling. Frying dumplings adds more calories and sodium to dumplings which is unhealthy for you.
Conclusion
Dumplings are delicious and come in many versions. The sides listed above pair well with about every version of dumplings – Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Indian. Make a hearty meal with dumplings and any of these sides.
Remember to eat healthy. Keep in mind that dumplings are not a very healthy meal choice. Keep your calorie intake within the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Remember its high sodium content and eat in moderation.
You can also broaden your meal plan with this list of sides that pair well with sushi.
Thanks for reading.
