How to make Dumpling Wrappers | Marion's Kitchen (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth making your own dumpling wrappers? ›

Of course, store bought dumpling wrappers are totally suitable if that's all you have on hand (or you're just not in the mood for rolling and shaping dumplings), but homemade dumpling wrappers are always extra delicious! And you get the satisfaction of truly making all your dumplings from scratch and by hand.

From-scratch dumpling dough requires only two ingredients — flour and water — and the water temperature yields different types of wrappers. Cold water is best for boiled dumplings because it causes the flour's proteins to form the gluten that makes dough chewy and able to withstand vigorously boiling water.

Dumpling wrappers are much thicker than Wonton wrappers. In Chinese cuisine, there are many distinct varieties of dumplings, and a wonton is one of them. Wontons are often filled with meats, pork, or vegetables, however, dumplings can be eaten with or without a filling across the world.

Homemade wrappers typically do not need to be moistened, as there should be enough moisture in them to stick together when folded. If you have dusted your wrapper with too much flour and it won't stick when you're folding, just dip your fingertip in water and run it along the edge.

There are three basic ways: steaming, boiling, and steam-frying. There is also deep-frying or serving with a crispy lacy “skirt.” While the cooking method depends heavily upon your mood and what you are craving, it also depends on the shape of your dumpling.

Potstickers at a Glance

Unlike dumplings, potstickers are made with a thin wrapper, sometimes referred to as a dumpling skin. This is because they are steam fried to get a crispy golden bottom layer and to ensure that the filling is juicy and delicious.

These dumplings start with all-purpose flour, which creates structure and holds the other ingredients together. Baking powder is a leavening agent, which means it releases gas that makes the dough expand. It's responsible for the dumplings' light and fluffy texture.

Dumpling wrappers are stocked in the refrigerator section of Asian markets and some supermarkets. Wonton wrappers can be substituted, though they lack dumpling wrappers' thin edge and will not pleat as well. If you substitute wonton wrappers, which are usually square, cut them into rounds before using.

Allow the dough to rest for at least 15 minutes and up to 3 hours at room temperature. At this point you can make your wrappers or refrigerate your dough for up to 2 days. Before using, allow your dough to warm to room temperature, as it will be easier to manipulate.

Place a couple of teaspoons of filling in the middle of a spring roll plate, roll over and tie the two ends together. Repeat until there are no spring roll plates or refill. Add a little neutral oil to a frying pan, and fry the dumplings until they have a golden brown color on the underside.

Are homemade wonton wrappers better than store-bought? ›

Homemade has always been better than store-bought products. Why? For starters, it has no preservatives or added chemicals. You can have peace of mind knowing that you freshly made your own wonton wrapper with your chosen ingredients.

Egg roll wrappers are larger in diameter and slightly thicker, which creates a sturdier wrapper, allowing them to be stuffed with more filling devoid of tearing apart. They have a chewy, crispy texture when fried or baked. Wonton wrappers, on the other hand, are smaller and thinner, making them more delicate.

It's a mixture of seasoned crab meat (in my case, imitation crab), cream cheese, garlic and green onions that's wrapped up in dumpling or wonton wrappers, then fried to a beautiful golden brown. They're deliciously creamy and tangy, with an addictive crunchy bite.

Dumplings, by their very nature, are small, and even a few minutes of cooking them in boiling water or steam will be enough to cook through the ground meat and finely-chopped vegetables inside. And if you cook the filling beforehand, you may end up with a filling that's overdone and dry.

Heat a pan on medium-high with a couple tablespoons of oil in it. Once hot, add your frozen dumplings. Cook in oil for about three to four minutes, turning once to sear multiple sides. Then add just enough water to cover dumplings about halfway, turn the heat down to medium-low, and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

Line the container with parchment paper. Place the dumplings in the container on a single layer. If storing soft and steamed dumplings, you can leave a small space in between to prevent them from sticking together. Avoid stacking them to prevent them from sticking and deforming.