0 Shares

There’s something undeniably comforting about the sight of freshly made Pork and Chive Dumplings sizzling in a pan or steaming away on the stovetop. I remember the first time I rolled up my sleeves to make these delightful pockets of flavor—it felt like I was embarking on a delicious adventure. With each wrapper stuffed to the brim with a savory filling of spicy ground pork, garlic chives, and a secret blend of sauces, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride.

This recipe invites you to step away from the fast-food grind and embrace the satisfying art of homemade cooking. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that not only warms your heart but also dazzles your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy weeknight family dinner or as a showstopper at your next gathering, these dumplings are versatile and incredibly easy to make together with a loved one. So dust off your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some magic!

Why will you love Pork and Chive Dumplings?

Comforting, Homemade Delights: There’s nothing like the warmth of freshly steamed dumplings to chase away the day’s stress.
Savory Filling: A perfect mix of ground pork and fresh garlic chives creates a mouthwatering flavor that satisfies.
Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you’ll be crafting these delightful bites, making this recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them steamed, boiled, or pan-fried—whatever suits your taste! For even more delicious ideas, check out my guide on pairing dumplings with sauces.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These dumplings are sure to impress guests and family alike, making your next gathering a hit!

Pork and Chive Dumpling Ingredients

To create those irresistibly flavorful dumplings, gather these essentials!

For the Dumplings

Dumpling wrappers – Thaw if using frozen; homemade adds a personal touch!
Ground pork – The star of the filling that brings savory richness.
Papery shrimp (Optional) – Adds a delightful umami depth if desired.

For the Seasoning

Light soy sauce – Use this for a balanced flavor boost.
Shaoxing wine – A hint of this dry sherry elevates the filling with complexity.
Dark soy sauce – A small amount deepens the color and taste of your dumplings.
Grated ginger – Freshly grated infuses a gentle warmth and zest.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors in your delicious filling.
Sugar – Brightens the savory notes for a well-rounded taste.
Ground white pepper – Introduces a subtle peppery heat that’s just right.
Toasted sesame oil – Adds a nutty richness that complements the pork beautifully.

For the Freshness

Garlic chives – These aromatic greens add a fresh burst of flavor that perfectly pairs with pork.

Now you’re all set to embark on your dumpling-making adventure—just imagine how wonderful your kitchen will smell as you cook up these Pork and Chive Dumplings!

How to Make Pork and Chive Dumplings

Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, papery shrimp (if using), light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, sugar, white pepper, toasted sesame oil, and garlic chives. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky to the touch.
Fill the wrappers: Take your dumpling wrappers and place a heaping teaspoon of the filling in the center of each one. Be careful not to overfill, or they may burst during cooking!
Seal the dumplings: Gently fold the wrapper in half over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal. Make sure there’s no air trapped inside, as this can cause them to lose form while cooking.
Cook the dumplings: Choose your cooking method! For steaming, arrange them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper and steam over boiling water for about 8-10 minutes. If boiling, cook for 5-7 minutes until they float to the top. For pan-frying, heat a little oil in a skillet and cook them until golden brown on the bottom and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
Serve and enjoy: Place your freshly made dumplings on a serving platter and drizzle with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed warm!

Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pork and Chive Dumplings?

A delightful meal with savory dumplings invites a harmonious selection of sides and drinks to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Steamed Broccoli: The light crunch and bright green color of steamed broccoli provide a visually appealing contrast and a boost of nutrients.
Soy Sauce Dipping Sauce: A classic pairing that elevates the flavors of your dumplings with its salty umami goodness. Consider adding chili oil for a spicy kick!
Garlic Fried Rice: The flavors of garlic and rice meld beautifully with the rich dumpling filling, making for a truly satisfying meal. The fried texture offers a nice contrast to the tenderness of the dumplings.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly with rice vinegar adds a crisp, zesty taste, balancing the richness of the dumplings while cleansing the palate.
Hot and Sour Soup: The warmth and tanginess of this traditional soup perfectly complement the dumplings, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Lemon Iced Tea: A cool glass of lemon iced tea creates a refreshing counterpoint to the savory notes of the dumplings, making each mouthful even more delightful.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, try this delicious dessert that combines creamy coconut rice with ripe mango, offering a satisfying end to your meal.

These pairing suggestions will help you craft a memorable dining experience, one that you and your loved ones will cherish!

Tips for the Best Pork and Chive Dumplings

Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh garlic chives and high-quality ground pork for the most flavorful dumpling filling—this makes all the difference in taste!
Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to pack the dumplings tightly, but avoid overfilling them. Too much filling can lead to bursting during cooking.
Seal Properly: Ensure you pinch the edges of the dumpling wrappers firmly to avoid any air pockets. A good seal keeps the flavorful filling secure during cooking.
Cooking Techniques: Experiment with different cooking methods like steaming, boiling, or pan-frying to find your favorite way to enjoy these delicious Pork and Chive Dumplings.
Dipping Sauces: Enhance your dumplings with a variety of dipping sauces such as soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil—each adds a delightful twist!

Pork and Chive Dumpling Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists to make your dumplings truly your own!

Vegetarian: Substitute the ground pork for a mix of mushrooms, tofu, and a splash of soy sauce for a hearty filling.
Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped chili peppers or a dash of chili oil to the filling for a zesty, spicy flavor that will warm your taste buds.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh cilantro or basil along with garlic chives for an intriguing flavor profile that brightens each bite.
Cheesy Delight: Fold in some cream cheese or mozzarella into the pork mixture for a rich, creamy filling that transforms your dumplings into cheesy bites.
Shrimp Lover’s: Replace the ground pork entirely with shrimp, or add a combination of both for a surf-and-turf twist that seafood lovers will adore!
Crunchy Texture: Mix in finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the filling for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft wrapper.
Ginger Boost: Increase the amount of grated ginger in the filling to amplify that warm, aromatic flavor present in dumplings.
Whole Wheat Wrappers: Opt for whole wheat dumpling wrappers for a healthier twist, which adds a nutty flavor while still delivering that delightful dumpling softness.

Make Ahead Options

These Pork and Chive Dumplings are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply combine all the filling ingredients, and then wrap the dumplings just before you’re ready to cook. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the dumplings and freeze them for up to 3 months—just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. To cook frozen dumplings, steam or boil them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you can savor homemade flavor without the fuss on busy nights!

Storage Tips for Pork and Chive Dumplings

Room Temperature: If you’ve just made a batch, let the dumplings cool for about 30 minutes before storing them at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them tasting fresh, place a damp paper towel in with them.
Freezer: Uncooked dumplings can be frozen on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transferred to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, steam or pan-fry the cooked dumplings for 3-5 minutes until heated through. If frozen, cook directly from the freezer without thawing, adding a few extra minutes as needed.

Pork and Chive Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dumpling wrappers?
Absolutely! If you’re using store-bought wrappers, opt for those made from wheat flour for a classic texture. Thaw frozen wrappers completely before use for best results. If you decide to make your own, ensure the dough is rolled thin enough to create tender dumplings.

How should I store leftover cooked pork and chive dumplings?
To enjoy leftovers, place cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge and consume them within 3 days. For freshness, I recommend placing a damp paper towel inside the container, as it helps maintain moisture and prevents the dumplings from drying out.

Can I freeze uncooked dumplings? How?
Yes, you certainly can! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the uncooked dumplings on it without touching each other. Freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to cook them straight from frozen without thawing for the best texture.

What if my dumpling wrappers tear while sealing?
Very common! If the wrappers tear, simply pinch the edges together gently and use a bit of water to help seal them. You can also place a small piece of another wrapper over the torn area for added strength while cooking.

Are these dumplings safe for people with allergies?
Although these Pork and Chive Dumplings are delicious, they contain common allergens such as soy sauce and gluten from the wrappers. For those with soy allergies, consider using coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce. Always check labels for potential allergenic ingredients, and feel free to customize the filling to suit individual dietary needs.

How should I cook the dumplings?
For best results, you can choose steaming, boiling, or pan-frying depending on your preference or available tools. For steaming, place them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper over boiling water for about 8-10 minutes. For boiling, toss them into a pot of simmering water and cook until they float (about 5-7 minutes). If you prefer a crispy bottom, choose pan-frying: heat some oil in a skillet, add the dumplings, and cook until golden brown on the bottom; then add a splash of water, cover, and allow them to steam until cooked through (about 4-5 minutes).

Enjoy your dumpling-making adventure!