Asian Dumplings: Our Recommendations for an Authentic Taste at Home

Satisfying a craving for authentic Asian dishes often means a trip to a restaurant or laborious home cooking. Preparing dumplings like dim sum or gyoza, in particular, requires time and practice. A convenient alternative is high-quality frozen products that effortlessly bring the taste of Asia to your own kitchen.

This article serves as your guide. We'll introduce different types of Asian dumplings, offer tips for choosing the right ones, and present a selection of products known for their unique qualities and simple preparation.

What to Look for When Buying Asian Dumplings

The variety of frozen Asian dumplings is vast. To find the perfect product for your palate, the following criteria can help guide your decision.

Understanding the Variety: Gyoza, Har Gow, and Bao Buns

Asian dumplings, often known by the umbrella term Asian dumplings, vary significantly in their dough, filling, and shape. A basic understanding of the most common types makes the selection process easier:

• Gyoza: Originally from China and popularised in Japan, these dumplings have a thin dough wrapper and are typically pan-fried on one side while being steamed. Fillings range from ground pork to vegetables. Korean gyoza are often larger and filled with ingredients like kimchi or bulgogi beef.
• Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): A classic of Cantonese dim sum. They are characterized by a translucent, slightly chewy dough made from wheat and tapioca starch, which encases a juicy shrimp filling. These Har Gow shrimp dumplings are exclusively steamed.
• Bao Buns (Baozi): These are steamed yeast buns made from wheat flour. They are soft, fluffy, and have a thicker casing than gyoza. The fillings are diverse, ranging from savoury pork (Cha Siu Bao) to sweet pastes. If you're looking to order bao buns, you're seeking a satisfying and milder dish.

Cooking Methods: Steam, Pan-Fry, or Deep-Fry?

The right preparation method is crucial for perfect results. The product packaging provides clear instructions.

• Steaming Dumplings: This method is ideal for delicate doughs like those used for Har Gow or Bao Buns. Steaming preserves the moisture of the filling and ensures a soft, tender texture.
• Pan-Frying: The classic method for gyoza. It creates a crispy bottom and a soft top—a highly prized textural contrast.
• Deep-Frying: Some gyoza varieties are also suitable for deep-frying, which makes them exceptionally crispy.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to achieve the best possible outcome. Most frozen products are cooked directly from the freezer, which simplifies the process even further.

Top Asian Dumpling Picks

Here is a selection of products that represent different facets of Asian dumpling cuisine. Each product has been chosen for its specific features and positive customer feedback.

Ben's Crystal Shrimp Dumplings 800g

Why we love it: These Har Gow shrimp dumplings stand out with their traditional, translucent dough and a filling that contains 17.2% shrimp. The combination with fish, yam, and bamboo shoots provides a balanced texture and an authentic flavour, just like what you'd expect when you buy dim sum at a restaurant. Preparation is straightforward, involving steaming directly from frozen.

Advantages:

• Classic Har Gow recipe with a transparent dough wrapper
• High shrimp content for a juicy bite
• Quick to prepare in about 7 minutes in a steamer
• Bulk pack of 800g (approx. 32 pieces)

Who it's for: Ideal for lovers of Cantonese cuisine and seafood who want an authentic dim sum experience at home. It works perfectly as an appetiser or for a social gathering.

View Product: Ben's Crystal Shrimp Dumplings 800g

bibigo Beef Bulgogi Gyoza 300g

Why we love it: These Korean gyoza from bibigo deliver the popular flavour of bulgogi in dumpling form. The filling consists of 19% seasoned beef combined with a vegetable mix of cabbage, spring onions, and carrots. The sweet and savoury marinade is characteristic of Korean cuisine and makes these frozen gyoza a unique twist on classic Chinese dumplings.

Advantages:

• Authentic Korean bulgogi flavour
• Filling with 19% beef and fresh vegetables
• Versatile preparation: pan-fried or deep-fried
• Ready to serve in minutes

Who it's for: Perfect for anyone who appreciates Korean cuisine and prefers a hearty, meat-based dumpling. An excellent choice for a quick main course, a snack, or as part of an Asian-style buffet.

View Product: bibigo Beef Bulgogi Gyoza 300g

Delico Cha Sieuw Bao 270g

Why we love it: For those looking to order bao buns, this is a Cantonese classic. These fluffy, steamed yeast buns are filled with savoury-sweet Char Siu pork. The soft dough and flavourful filling create a harmonious combination. Steaming is simple and preserves the buns' characteristic soft texture.

Advantages:

• Classic dim sum specialty with a Char Siu pork filling
• Soft, fluffy yeast dough
• Easy to prepare in a steamer in 8–10 minutes
• A satisfying snack or small meal

Who it's for: For fans of dim sum and anyone who enjoys a filling, slightly sweet, and savoury dumpling variety. Ideal as a warm snack or as part of a larger meal.

View Product: Delico Cha Sieuw Bao 270g

Looking for More Options?

The world of Asian dumplings is far more extensive. From vegetarian fillings and different types of meat to regional specialties, there is much to discover. If you are looking for other Asian ready meals or different dumpling varieties, you will find a broader selection in our category.

Discover more Frozen Foods from Around the World here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you properly steam frozen dumplings?

Line a steamer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the frozen dumplings in the basket with some space between them. Bring water to a boil in a pot or wok and place the steamer basket on top. Steam the dumplings according to the package instructions (usually 7–12 minutes) until they are fully cooked.

What is the difference between Gyoza, Dim Sum, and Chinese dumplings?

Dim Sum is not a single dish but a Cantonese style of cuisine consisting of many small plates, including various dumplings like Har Gow or Siu Mai. Gyoza is the Japanese term for a specific type of pan-fried dumpling (Jiaozi). Chinese dumplings is a general term that can encompass various filled dough products from China, including Jiaozi.

Do you need to thaw Asian dumplings before cooking?

No, most frozen dumplings are designed to be cooked directly from frozen. Thawing is generally not recommended, as it can make the dough soft and sticky, which makes them difficult to handle and negatively affects the final result. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.