If you want to serve something that pairs well with dumplings, you can opt for a fresh salad or a light pasta dish. If you’re looking for a savory option, try serving fried rice.
Dumplings are a dish that are a favorite amongst many foodies because of the fact that they are easy to make and delicious.
Depending on where you live, dumplings may have their own unique name and some are associated with particular regions of the country.
One thing to note is that not all dumplings are made with flour, but rather with mashed potatoes.
Potato dumplings are known as gnocchi, while those made from other ingredients are called dumplings.
Dumplings can be served in a variety of ways.
While some dumplings are served as the main dish, others are often served alongside soup or as a side dish.
In this article, we will explore the different types of dumplings and what best accompaniments to serve with them.
Why Consider Serving Side Dishes for Dumplings?
Dumplings are perfect for parties.
They’re hearty and filling, and they can be made ahead of time to make your life easier.
However, you might find that, even when they’re prepared well, dumplings don’t tend to taste as delicious as other dishes.
This is due to the fact that many people think that dumplings are only suitable for serving as the main dish.
However, this isn’t always the case.
There are many different dishes that can be served alongside dumplings that will make them taste fantastic.
Think about pairing it with a salad, for example.
Or try serving it alongside other Asian dishes like noodles and rice.
Or serve it with pork for an interesting and flavorful meal.
What to Serve with Dumplings – 80 Easy Sides
Dumplings are perfect served with a variety of dishes. They can be served with a hearty stew, such as chicken pot pie, or with a lighter dish, such as pasta. When serving dumplings, you’ll want to serve them warm. They are best served on their own, but you can add a little bit of broth to enhance the flavor.
15 Salads To Serve With Dumplings
Dumplings are often served with vegetable salads, but they can also be served with a classic Italian or Chinese side salad.
Let’s go over some of the most popular vegetable side salads to serve with dumplings!
1. Mandarin Broccoli Salad
A light salad of mandarin oranges, fresh broccoli, and spring onions is a really quick, tasty side dish to serve alongside a selection of dumplings. You don’t need a huge amount of mandarin oranges for this, so if you can pick up a pack from your local supermarket, they’re a great value alternative to buying the expensive variety from the deli section. You could also add some freshly ground black pepper for an extra kick!
2. Shaved Fennel Salad
A simple salad of fennel, rocket, and lemon juice works well as a side dish to accompany your dumplings. It’s a great way to get a healthy serving of vegetables into your diet, and it’s also great when served with a selection of Asian dumplings! You can vary the flavour by adding in sliced cucumber or peppers, and you might even want to use some crunchy dried seaweed to add another layer of texture and freshness.
3. Zucchini Panzanella Salad
For this one, you’ll want to make sure that you use a few different vegetables to create variety. Zucchini is an excellent choice as it’s great for soaking up the tomato and basil juices from your ramen bowls. A salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini really makes for a delicious contrast in texture and flavour. Serve with some crusty bread or even in the form of croutons for extra crunch.
4. Apple Sausage Salad with Cinnamon Vinaigrette
I love using apple sausage for this one, but you can also use regular sausages if you prefer. They’re a quick way of adding some protein into a dish, but they do require a little more preparation time than, say, sliced chicken breast. Just cut them into bite sized pieces, fry in a pan with some oil until crispy, then transfer to a serving bowl and add the vinaigrette dressing. You could serve it warm, or at room temperature, whichever you prefer.
5. Cashew-Pear Tossed Salad
A fresh salad is always a great option for what to serve with dumplings, but if you’re feeling extra creative, you can add some interesting flavours to it. Cashews and pears are a great combination, as the earthy flavour of the cashews pairs really well with the sweet, juicy pears. Mix in some chopped herbs such as parsley and chives, and add a squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice. It’s easy to make and ready in just 15 minutes!
6. Grilled Apple Tossed Salad
A tossed salad is a really versatile side dish, so this one offers plenty of options for flavour combinations. Serve it with your dumplings if you want something with a bit of a kick, or go for something mild like grilled apple and onion. Or you could opt for a sweeter option with banana, strawberries, and honey. It doesn’t matter which you choose here – just make sure that you’ve got the perfect accompaniment!
7. Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
I have been making this strawberry salad with poppy seed dressing for years now, and it’s always a firm favourite! It’s packed full of healthy ingredients including spinach, strawberries, cucumber, and avocado, and it’s also gluten free! Make sure that the salad is as fresh and vibrant as possible, so buy your berries and greens in the morning and make it just before you eat. If you don’t fancy using strawberries, try plums or peaches instead, and use the same technique to make your dressing.
8. Berry Tossed Salad
This is one of my favourite summer salads, as it’s really easy to prepare and tastes delicious no matter what time of year you serve it. It’s a great choice if you want something light and fresh, or if you just want a change from plain old lettuce. Start by preparing a bowl of mixed, ripe berries and toss them with some mint leaves, chia seeds, a drizzle of honey, and a pinch of salt. Mix in some extra ingredients such as avocado, tomatoes, and red onion, and serve on a bed of spinach. It’s also great when served warm, so if you can take your food outside in the summer, do so!
9. Blueberry Romaine Salad
The combination of juicy blueberries and crunchy romaine lettuce makes this salad an ideal choice for serving alongside dumplings. A little lemon juice and a generous drizzle of olive oil help bring out the flavour of the berries, while a pinch of salt adds some subtle seasoning. You could also swap the lettuce for baby spinach here, if you prefer.
10. Apple-Feta Tossed Salad
I love the way that a Greek salad is so versatile. You can use any combination of fresh vegetables, or even add in olives, tomatoes, and cucumber. I particularly like to use apple in mine to complement the savoury fetta. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yoghurt to add in some creaminess.
11. Chicken Salad
A great starter option that really goes well with all sorts of food. It’s easy to make at home and is a great way to use up leftovers. You can add some crunchy bits like cucumber, tomato, and onion, or serve it on its own. I always make mine with chopped chicken breast, but you could just as easily use diced leftover meatballs, leftover stir fry, or even a couple of leftover dumplings!
12. Guacamole Tossed Salad
This one is a twist on the classic guacamole recipe. It has all the best guacamole ingredients in it, but instead of avocado, it’s made with diced cucumber and tomato! It’s also a great way to use up any extra bits of lettuce or other veggies you have lying around the fridge. Simply toss them into a bowl, add your favourite toppings, and enjoy!
13. Almond Strawberry Salad
A healthy salad that’s easy to prepare is just what you need when you’re on the go! Almonds are an excellent source of protein and fibre, and they’re also packed with lots of vitamins A and E. Add some dried cranberries for extra sweetness, and strawberry pieces for a burst of natural flavour. The chickpeas in this recipe add protein and fibre, and they also add a nice crunch!
14. Garden Chickpea Salad
A really tasty and healthy vegetarian alternative to a chicken and egg sandwich is a chickpea salad. Chickpeas are actually a type of pulse crop, and are packed with protein and fibre, and are considered a superfood. They also contain lots of vitamins A, B, and C, and folate. When they’re cooked in oil, they absorb a lot of those vitamins, so make sure that your cooking time is carefully measured to ensure that your chickpeas don’t end up tasting bland!
15. Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
I love the fresh, fruity flavour of this salad dressing. It’s also one of the simplest dressings to make at home. I used to use a simple combination of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, and honey as a dressing for salads, but I’ve since started to favour a slightly more complex approach and these ingredients work well together. You can also add dried fruit to sweeten the salad, such as raisins or dates. For added crunch, sprinkle some nuts over the top.
15 Sauces, Dressings & More To Serve With Dumplings
Now that we have the basic dumpling side dishes covered, let’s move on to some more dumpling accompaniments.
There are so many ways to serve your dumplings, you can mix and match the accompaniments to fit your personal tastes or to make a special meal even more enjoyable.
1. Peanut Sauce
Peanut sauce is an all-round winner, whether you’re eating ramen or dumplings. It goes perfectly well with both types of side dish, and is also one of the easiest sauces to prepare. It’s also a great choice as it doesn’t have a lot of sugar in it, making it a healthier option than some others. You can add a dash of soy sauce for extra depth of flavour, and a pinch of sugar if you’d like.
2. Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinian sauce is a vibrant and tangy blend of garlic, parsley, oil, and white wine vinegar. It works well with many different types of food, but I really love it with dumplings. It offers a light, zingy flavour that compliments the dish. To make it, simply chop up a bunch of fresh parsley and mix it with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Romesco Sauce
There are many different types of Spanish sauces available, and while they all share a similar flavour profile, there are differences in the way they are prepared. Romesco is a traditional Spanish sauce made with bread, almonds, hazelnuts, tomatoes, and olive oil. It has a lovely creamy texture that works really well with dumplings and also makes a really delicious dipping sauce for chips. You can buy ready-made romesco sauce in supermarkets, but it’s so easy to make your own!
4. Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is another popular choice for a dipping sauce for dumplings. You can find it in most supermarkets. However, I would recommend making your own as it’s so easy! Simply combine some soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, chilli flakes, and sesame seeds in a small pan and heat until it starts to bubble. This makes a great side dish, or you can use it as a dipping sauce for noodles and steamed vegetables. If you want to serve it alongside a ramen, however, go for the store bought stuff!
5. Roasted Tomato Sauce
A tomato sauce is an excellent choice for dumplings, and there are so many flavours and varieties to choose from. There’s the classic tomato based sauce, which I love, but I also think that it’s really nice to mix it up with some different flavours. Try using a sweet chilli sauce or one of the Asian sauces, like oyster sauce, hoisin, or sweet soy, for a change. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their flavour, making them great for this purpose.
6. Grilled Chili Sauce
Grilled chilli sauce is a really popular option for topping up your dumplings, as it has a lovely smoky flavour. It’s especially good with a meaty dumpling like mince or beef and pork dumplings. You can add a little bit of Worcestershire sauce to make your own, but I prefer to use a commercially prepared product like the ones listed below.
7. Hollandaise Sauce
A hollandaise sauce can really lift any side dish from ordinary to extraordinary! You can enjoy it on its own as a dipping sauce for crudités or French fries, or you can use it to top off a bowl of steamed broccoli or as a dip for gyoza dumplings. Just whisk together some eggs, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, and you’re good to go.
8. Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is one of the key flavours in Thai cuisine, and is used alongside stir fried vegetables and noodles to bring the flavours to life. It’s great on its own, too, so just add it to your marinades and sauces.
9. Sesame Ginger Miso Dressing
This is such a versatile dressing that I find it’s often my go-to sauce for Asian dumplings and other dishes that need a little something extra. It works so well on its own as a salad dressing, and also goes really well with grilled chicken. To make this one, simply combine two parts of low fat natural yoghurt with three parts of water, then add a good pinch of ground ginger, a couple of teaspoons of gluten free tamari, and some sesame seeds. Give it a stir and you’re done!
10. Tahini Sauce
Tahini sauce is a great option for serving alongside Asian dumplings. It’s incredibly thick, creamy, and delicious, and is packed full of flavour and nutrients. To make it, simply combine two parts of tahini with one part of water, and a squeeze of lemon juice or a teaspoon of fresh ginger. If you’re after an extra kick, you can add a few drops of your favourite chilli oil to give the sauce a spicy kick!
11. Tahini Dressing
Tahini dressing is really easy to make, and it has the added benefit of being full of flavour and nutrition. Simply mix one part tahini to two parts water in a bowl and whisk together, then stir in your favourite herbs and spices. I like to add dried mint for extra depth of flavour.
12. Kale Pesto Sauce
Kale pesto is a really tasty option for a side dish with dumplings. It’s packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals, which makes it a real superfood choice! You can make this with whatever type of kale you prefer. Just chop up some leaves into small pieces, put them into a food processor, and blitz until finely chopped. Add in your favourite herbs and spices to create your own unique flavour combination.
13. Guacamole
Guacamole is such a delicious, refreshing side dish for Chinese dumplings that it’s hard to believe it was originally developed as a dessert! This Mexican dip is made from mashed avocado, tomato, and jalapeño peppers, which together give it a rich and fruity flavour. It’s the perfect accompaniment for your dumpling meals, though if you want to go a bit further you can add in some cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, and even guacamole chips!
14. Hummus
If you’re going to be serving dumplings to your dinner guests, you’ll need to think about what they will like to eat alongside them. Hummus is such a good choice here, as it offers the perfect combination of freshness and protein, while also being a great source of healthy fats. There are loads of different varieties available, so you can really tailor it to your own taste.
15. Salsa Verde
This one is a little bit of a cheat! Salsa verde is a classic dipping sauce in Spain, made from raw garlic, salt, and olive oil. It’s incredibly versatile, as it’s great with anything from fresh bread and salad to pizza and pasta. It’s also pretty healthy as it contains lots of healthy fats and lots of vitamin A, so it makes for an ideal side dish with chicken soup and dumplings, or even with a hearty bowl of ramen.
7 Rice and Noodles Sides to Serve with Dumplings
There is something about the combination of a dumpling with rice or noodles that just makes it so much more satisfying.
Rice and dumplings are like a match made in heaven. I love the way that a bowl of steaming rice and a plate of dumplings just seem to go together.
Here are some rice and noodle side dishes to serve with dumplings:
1. Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is one of my favourite comfort food dishes! I know it’s usually served with a whole heap of vegetables, but I’m going to recommend that you serve it with these tasty side dishes instead. It’s a great option for people who like to eat healthy, as you’ll be getting in loads of veggies and fibre while still having plenty of chicken and noodles. For a vegetarian option, try making your fried rice with cauliflower instead of chicken. It will work just fine!
2. Sweet and Spicy Noodles
Sweet and Spicy Noodles is a great option for what to serve with dumplings when you want to keep it spicy. You could use it as a standalone meal, or serve it with dumplings and a side salad for a tasty, healthy lunch. For this dish, chop up some spring onions and carrot, and boil them in a pan of water for 3-4 minutes. Next, drain the vegies and toss them in a wok or large frying pan. Add a dash of oil, and a generous helping of chilli flakes, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Stir fry the vegies for 2-3 minutes until tender, and then transfer to a serving dish. If you want, top with some sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil.
3. Instant Pot Coconut Rice
I’ve heard so much hype about instant pot rice lately, and as soon as I got my hands on one, I knew I had to try it out for myself! It’s really easy to cook, and the rice is super fresh and tasty. You just add water to the base of the pressure cooker, place the lid on top of the vessel, wait for the steam to do its work, and then after a few minutes, you open the lid and there it is! The rice has the same consistency as traditional cooked rice, but it’s actually been cooked in less time. It’s an awesome option for side dishes, as it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, which means you’re always ready to go!
4. Yakimeshi
Yakimeshi is a Japanese dessert made from a light pudding of steamed rice mixed with various flavoured ingredients, which are then served with sweetened condensed milk. You can make this with a variety of different flavour combinations, such as strawberry and banana, apple and cinnamon, or even lemon and blueberry.
5. Sesame Ginger Noodles
I love the simplicity of a bowl of noodles served alongside dumplings. The dumplings themselves are a great source of protein, so it’s a great way to fill your tummy before you sit down for a main meal. When you’re choosing what to serve with dumplings, go for something that’s easy to make and will bring plenty of flavour. My favourite option here is a bowl of sesame ginger noodles, which are a great source of iron, and a great way to introduce your kids to some Chinese flavours.
6. Cauliflower Fried Rice
If you’ve never tried fried rice before, then this is the perfect place to start! Simply stir together a couple of cups of your favourite vegetables with your favourite sauce (I like to use tomato and sweetcorn) and add in your favourite protein of choice (prawns, chicken, pork, etc.). Mix well and then top with chopped spring onions and coriander. It takes minutes to prepare, so it’s a perfect way to serve up a healthy dinner quickly and easily.
7. Spicy Red Sriracha Quinoa
Dumplings can often be quite heavy if they’re made from a dough based recipe, and so it’s always a good idea to keep things light and refreshing by choosing a rice dish instead! This spicy red sriracha quinoa is so easy to make and full of flavour, making it the perfect accompaniment to your next dumpling feast. Simply mix together quinoa, chilli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and Sriracha for a bowlful of healthy goodness. You can enjoy this dish hot or cold, and it can be served with or without your choice of noodles.
14 Soups to Serve with Dumplings
Now we’re getting into some interesting territory, but if you love soup as much as I do, it’s not all bad.
The idea of soup is to warm you up, and to make you feel full. So you can’t really go wrong with a big bowl of soup.
There are so many variations on the theme, with soup that tastes so good.
It’s no surprise that I have a few soup recipes to share, too.
1. Chinese Hot and Sour Soup
Chinese hot and sour soup is another great choice for what to serve with dumplings, and it’s also super easy to prepare. All you need to do is add a selection of fresh vegetables, noodles, and broth to a pot, simmer, and you’re ready to eat. Just don’t forget the dumplings – they’re an essential part of the soup!
2. Vegan Thai Coconut Soup
A vegan version of this traditional Thai dish is just as delicious, and will provide your dinner guests with plenty of protein and healthy fats. It’s a really quick and easy recipe to prepare, so why not give it a go? If you do want to make a more traditional version, feel free to swap out the tofu for chicken or prawns. It’s also a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet if you’re having a particularly busy week.
3. Egg Drop Soup
If you’re eating Chinese food at home, chances are you’ll have ordered egg drop soup for your main meal! But why stop there? In fact, you can eat egg drop soup with a dumpling or two as a light snack, or even as a side dish. It’s so satisfying and filling, and it’s great fun to dip the dumplings into the soup and eat them one by one. Of course, you can also add in other vegetables if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be careful to adjust the flavours to suit your own tastes.
4. Miến Gà (Vietnamese Clear Noodle Soup)
This is a Vietnamese noodle soup that’s rich in flavour. It has lots of flavour packed vegetables and fresh herbs and will make a delicious accompaniment to any meal. It’s also super easy to make. All you need is a stockpot, some noodles, and a selection of vegetables, but you can use whatever you have available. I like to serve it with rice or noodles so that my guests don’t feel left out, though it would work just as well if you served it on its own.
5. Asian Chicken Noodle Soup
If your friends are big fans of Chinese food, then this is a really great option for what to serve with dumplings.
See Also: What Vegetables Go in Chicken Noodle Soup
The secret to making it taste really authentic is to use fresh chicken broth instead of a stock cube or powder. You could even make your own broth from scratch using some chicken carcasses and a bit of veggie scraps, and make it extra flavourful by adding spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Your guests will love dipping their dumplings into the soup while it’s still piping hot!
6. Wonton Soup
The simplest of soups is the best! I love wonton soup because it’s not too sweet or rich, making it a great choice for dumplings. This traditional Chinese soup is made with chicken stock, and uses wonton wrappers to form little pockets for your dumplings to sit in. You can buy them from supermarkets and take them along to work, school, or a picnic if you want to make life easier. If you prefer something a little more healthy, use vegetable stock instead.
7. Miso Soup
Miso soup is another one of those classic dishes that’s become a popular side dish option over the years, and for good reason. It’s creamy, and warming, and can also be made to a greater or lesser extent, so there’s no end of variations on the theme. You can use any miso you like here, though if you don’t have any yet, I suggest starting with a vegetarian version and adding in some chicken stock or water at the end of the cooking process.
8. Chinese Noodle Soup with Chicken
There’s something really appealing about a bowl of soup, especially on a chilly winter’s day! Chinese noodle soup is very easy to prepare, and it’s a great way to introduce guests to Asian cuisine if you’re serving them for the first time. You don’t need much in the way of additional equipment to get it ready, either – just chop up a chicken breast or two and throw it in a pot with some vegetable stock. Once the chicken is cooked, just stir in some noodles, add a few tablespoons of soy sauce and some sliced green onions, and there you have it! You can add your own ingredients to make this soup your own, like chopped spring onions, sesame oil, and chilli flakes.
9. Thai Chicken and Rice Noodle Soup
This soup is another great option if you want to show off a bit of your Thai heritage. The beauty of Thai food is that the spices are so different from those used in Western cooking, so they make for a really exciting flavour experience. Thai chicken and rice noodle soup is traditionally served with lots of extra herbs and vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, and zucchini. If you want to make this recipe as authentic as possible, you can use fresh chicken instead of the ready-made stuff, but you will need to check that it’s suitable for eating. Make sure it’s free of any additives and preservatives and isn’t packed with too much sodium.
10. Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup
The dumpling is the perfect match for Asian soups, which are traditionally made with lots of vegetables and served in a light broth. This one is a real crowd pleaser as it has lots of crunchy cabbage and fresh coriander, so it’s got plenty of healthy flavour too!
11. Indian Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is another great option, but I really love the Indian version because there’s so much variety and it’s packed with so many different herbs and spices. I like to use my favourite spice blend – the ‘Chai Spice’ from the Dukan diet range – but any blend you fancy will work just fine!
12. Chinese Noodle Soup with Mushrooms
I love the combination of crunchy dumplings with soft, warm soup. The mushrooms add a really interesting texture and colour that’s sure to attract attention. If you have some leftover chicken stock in the fridge, you can make it even easier to throw together by just heating it up and stirring in a can of noodles or rice.
13. Thai Red curry Vegetable Soup
Thai red curry is another of my favourites, and a bowl of this spicy soup will be perfect for dipping in your yummy gyoza. You can serve it hot or cold, depending on how you prefer it. Just make sure that you choose the right seasoning for your taste, as too much red curry paste can be overpowering! Serve with freshly steamed rice and some fresh herbs if you want to make it extra special.
14. Ramen Vegetable Soup
Dumplings are a great way of making a quick, healthy meal a little more special. You can choose from a wide variety of different dumplings, from traditional Japanese gyoza to Chinese potstickers, but I really enjoy this classic chicken and pork version! Just prepare a simple ramen vegetable soup as per the instructions on the pack, and add the chopped up gyoza when serving. The extra crunch and savoury flavour is just what the doctor ordered!
23 Other Sides To Serve With Dumplings
So far we’ve discussed the basics: soups and sides for dumplings. But what else can we serve with dumplings?
1. Vegetable Stir Fry
If you’ve never eaten dumplings before, this is a great way to start! They work well with a variety of different flavours and textures, and they’re usually fairly quick and easy to make. Just grab some good quality ready-made stock from the supermarket, stir in some vegetables, and add some flavoured breadcrumbs or parmesan for extra crunch. A good tip for getting the most flavour out of the dumplings is to cook them in a little oil over medium heat, for around 10 minutes. The oil will help to soften them up, and it also helps them to retain their shape when you lift them out.
2. Chicken Pot Pie
A delicious chicken pot pie is the perfect choice if you want a warming, comforting meal on a cold winter’s day. You can serve it hot, straight from the oven, or reheat it in the microwave at work. I like to make mine using leftover roast chicken and whatever veggies are around in my fridge. Try not to use a lot of meat in the filling, as you don’t want to end up with a dense, heavy meal. Add enough stock to moisten it, and add some cream to give it a lovely, rich finish.
3. Pasta
Sometimes it’s fun to mix things up a little and serve something completely different. Pasta works well here, as it’s something that is quick and easy to prepare. You can buy different shapes and sizes to suit your preferred presentation, and a recipe with linguine pasta, pesto and parmesan is so satisfying. Of course, you can always use an unusual shape to add a little bit of interest!
5. Sweet and Sour Chicken Balls
I love serving sweet and sour chicken balls because they’re really easy to make. They’re super tasty, healthy, and super cheap, so there are no excuses not to make them! You’ll need a large, deep fryer for this one, though I promise it will be totally worth it. Just roll up some chicken mince in a slice of bread, then coat in some sweet and sour sauce before frying it up until golden brown.
6. Vegan Summer Rolls
If you’ve ever tried making vegan summer rolls you’ll know how much easier they are to make when you’re not required to worry about the ingredients going wrong. They’re so much more forgiving if you’re not quite sure of what you’re doing. If you follow the recipe below, your summer rolls should come out perfectly every time! Just choose your preferred filling from one of the options on this page.
7. Chili Garlic Tofu Scamble
Chili garlic tofu scramble is a fantastic option to serve with dumplings! It’s full of flavour and is so quick and easy to prepare. In a small pan, heat some oil over a medium heat, then add a small handful of chopped garlic and a few small red chilli flakes. Let them cook for a couple of minutes until they start to smell fragrant and sizzle, then add 200g of drained tofu. Add 1/3 cup of water and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for around five minutes until the tofu has started to turn golden. Finish by adding some chopped coriander or parsley.
8. Pork Spring Rolls
These are a fun and tasty side dish to accompany Chinese dumplings, or as a snack on their own. You can make your own so you can enjoy it hot and fresh out of the oven, or save some time by buying a baguette from the supermarket.
9. Tofu Sesame Toasts
These can be used as an alternative to bread and butter alongside a dumpling or gyoza, or as a snack on their own. They’re simple to prepare, and add in plenty of protein and healthy fats that help to keep you feeling full. For added convenience, you can buy packs of ready made tofu sesame toasts from your local supermarket, which are usually very cheap and come in handy when you’re eating on the go.
10. Scallion Pancakes
These tasty little pancakes are a great alternative to plain old pancakes. They’re really easy to prepare, and are particularly good for people who have trouble chewing or swallowing foods that are too soft. As they’re made with just four simple ingredients, they’re an incredibly quick snack to whip up, and they’re always a big hit with the whole family.
11. Lettuce Wraps with Teriyaki Chickpeas
A little more time-consuming to make, but just as delicious, these lettuce wraps are the perfect accompaniment for an Asian dinner. They’re a great choice if you’ve got a few minutes to spare, as they’re easy to eat and can be packed away in the fridge and brought along to work in your lunch box, or packed into a thermos flask for a quick on the go meal.
12. Crab Cream Cheese Wontons
One of my favourite things about crab meat is that it has such a beautiful taste, and it’s so versatile. It really doesn’t matter whether you use lump or claw, as both are equally tasty. In addition to the flavour, it also makes a great filling for these delightful wonton dumplings. It’s the perfect combination! To make your wonton wrappers, you need to start by rolling out some dumpling skin. You can either do this yourself, or buy ready-made wrappers. If you’re planning on serving them at home, you should make sure that they’re stored in an airtight container so that they don’t dry out. Once you’ve made the wonton skins, fill them with the crab mixture. They’re best served hot, and I usually have a steamer in my kitchen for just this purpose.
13. Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls
I love fresh vegetable spring rolls! They’re one of my favourite snacks to bring to a picnic, and they’re the perfect option for what to serve with dumplings. All you need is a big bowl of chopped veggies, some rice paper wrappers, and a large pot of boiling water. I like to chop up the veggies into bite-sized pieces, and then fry them gently in a wok for a couple of minutes. Once they’ve softened, transfer them to a plate and let them cool slightly. Next, soak a couple of sheets of rice paper in hot water for about a minute. Take one sheet of rice paper and place it on a flat surface. Then take your filling and place some in the centre of the wrapper, rolling it up towards the ends. Once you’re done, gently dunk the roll in the boiling water for a few seconds to cook it through. Now you can either serve it as soon as you make it, or place it back into the boiling water for a little longer if you want to reheat it.
14. Soy Sauce Fried Rice
Savoury dumplings have a lot of flavour packed into them, so it’s a really good idea to serve something else alongside them if you’re looking for something different. I love this fried rice recipe as it has the added benefit of being both healthy and easy to prepare!
15. Stir-Fried Baby Bok Choy
Bok choy is an extremely versatile vegetable. You can chop it up and serve it with rice, but I also enjoy eating it stir-fried and on its own, either raw or with a dressing of soy sauce and sesame oil. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge if you’re short of time. Try it out with different veg options, like snow peas, baby corn, and green beans.
16. Chinese Cucumber Salad
I love the contrast of a crunchy salad alongside a soft, creamy dish. This is my choice whenever I’m eating at a Chinese restaurant, and it’s the ideal accompaniment for dumplings! You can use any type of cucumber you prefer, though I’ve found that it’s best to use English cucumbers for this recipe as they are firmer and don’t get too watery when cooked. Cut into batons, drizzle with some sesame oil, and then mix with some sesame seeds and chopped coriander. To make it extra quick, you can pick up a selection pack from your local supermarket.
17. Stir-Fried Choy Sum
Choy sum is another delicious Asian vegetable and one that’s always on my menu! This particular variety has a slightly bitter flavour, so be sure to rinse them well and drain any excess liquid. The combination of crunchy vegetables and soft, creamy filling is really appealing and works beautifully in this recipe. Choose any mix of peppers, beansprouts, baby corn, carrots, and spring onions that you like, or use whatever you have to hand. Chop them into batons and then combine with a generous drizzle of soy sauce and sesame oil, and then toss through some sesame seeds for extra crunch. It’s also a great idea to serve the stir-fried choy sum with a bowl of rice for a delicious, balanced meal!
18. Spinach Ohitashi (Japanese Spinach Salad)
If you enjoy the idea of dipping your dumplings in a bowl of a sweet sauce or soup, then this Japanese spinach salad is for you! It has an incredibly vibrant and fresh flavour, and I love the way the salad can be prepared quickly before serving – just slice the vegetables, combine with the dressing and toss together! I like to use ready made white wine vinegar here, but you can use any kind of vinegar you prefer if you want to make it from scratch.
19. Spicy Asian Zucchini
This is another easy side dish that’s perfect for when you’re in a hurry. Just chop up a zucchini into batons and drizzle over some soy sauce and sesame oil. Add a little extra chilli and ginger if you’d like and serve in a bowl alongside your dumplings.
20. Chinese Coleslaw
Chinese coleslaw is a delicious way to add some freshness and crunch to your dumplings. I like to mix it up with carrot, red cabbage, cucumber, and shredded red and green peppers. This salad is a great choice for a side dish, as it can be prepared and served up in advance, allowing you to get your dumplings on straight away without any delay. It’s also super quick to make!
21. Japanese Potato Salad
If you prefer your ramen served with something a little more European, then why not go for the traditional choice of potato salad? Japanese potato salad is typically made from boiled potatoes, grated cucumber, and a good splash of soy sauce. It’s a great alternative to more traditional American potato salads, which often contain a lot of mayonnaise. Just toss all of your ingredients together in a bowl and add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
22. Chinese Sausage Fried Rice
Fried rice is a favourite meal all around the world, and I’ve always found it pretty easy to cook. Here, you can choose to serve it with your choice of meat or veggie dumplings, and you’ll find that it comes together really quickly. If you’re having dumplings, just cook your noodles in some vegetable oil, add your filling, then roll up the edges and drop them into boiling water for a minute or two until they rise to the surface. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly before you enjoy.
23. Spicy Bean Sprout Salad
This is a classic and healthy side dish that can be made in less than ten minutes! You can choose between fresh bean sprouts, and cooked ones, and both options work really well with ramen. For my personal favourite, I like to stir fry the raw sprouts with a little sesame oil, chilli, and salt, then top with some chopped spring onion, shredded cabbage, and toasted sesame seeds.
6 Beverages To Serve With Dumplings
Okay, so this one is a little different. Dumplings and potstickers are perfect with tea, but drinks are another story.
I mean, there are all kinds of drinks to drink with a meal.
But here are some of my favorites.
1. Pepper Tree Alluvius Semillon
The flavours in this wine will really complement the dumplings, and the acidity of the semillon really cuts through the richness of the pork, while the wine’s sweetness makes for a light, refreshing accompaniment. You can also pair it with chicken and dumplings as a main course, though personally I prefer it as a side dish!
2. Sake Black Honjozo
A Japanese rice wine is often used with savoury dishes like ramen. It pairs nicely with the flavour of the meat and vegetables in a typical Japanese meal, and has a smooth finish that works really well with rich and oily foods like prawns and fish. Sake Black Honjozo is one of my personal favourites, and I always enjoy a glass or two when I’m having a meal at a Japanese restaurant. It goes well with both sweet and savoury dishes, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavours.
3. Antonelli Montefalco Rosso Doc
A great choice here is the Antonelli Montefalco Rosso DOC! It’s got a lovely fresh flavour that goes really well with dumplings, and it also has a great balance of fruity and spicy notes, so it’s sure to be a hit with your dinner guests!
4. Nittnaus Leithaberg Altenberg Blaufränkisch
A great option for when you’re eating out, or on the go, is a bottle of Nittnaus Leithaberg Altenberg Blaufränkisch. It has a nice blend of crisp acidity and sweet fruitiness, so it will pair really well with dumplings.
5. Pheasant’s Tears Poliphonia
Pheasant’s tears is a classic Chinese beverage, traditionally served at banquets and celebrations. It’s a clear, straw coloured liquid which is made from the steaming of fresh pheasant feathers.
The name is derived from the appearance of the brew, which resembles the tears of a mourning dove.
Personally, I prefer to drink mine warm, so I can savour the delicious aroma and refreshing flavours of the beverage.
6. Rangoon Ruby Cocktail
If you’ve already eaten your fill of dumplings, why not make something a little different with this ruby cocktail? This is a traditional British recipe, and it goes back to the 18th century. It’s served chilled, with a dash of lemon juice, and you can add ice to it if you prefer. I like to make it in a highball glass, with a generous splash of rum!
FAQ
What to serve with pork dumplings?
Fried rice is a perfect side dish for pork dumplings, as it provides a good amount of carbohydrates to balance out the meatiness of the dumplings. In addition, it’s a dish that can be easily prepared ahead of time and is easy to reheat later on.
What to serve with potato dumplings?
There are many options for what to serve with potato dumplings. For starters, you can have them with a salad, vegetable soup, or some fried fish. If you’re looking for something more filling, then you can opt for a hearty side dish like mashed potatoes or polenta.
What to serve with prawn dumplings?
The most popular side dish with prawn dumplings is noodles. You can opt to make the dish yourself by adding vegetables or you can find ready-made noodles that are pre-seasoned with soy sauce.
What to serve with gyoza dumplings?
Dumpling lovers, rejoice! You can serve these delicious dumplings with a variety of side dishes. To start, you’ll want to serve them with something light, such as steamed broccoli or rice.
You can also opt to make your own dipping sauce. This allows you to control the amount of salt and spices in the dish, and it’s a great way to add some flavor to your dumplings.
Alternatively, you can serve them with a fried rice. This combination of flavors is sure to go over well with your guests. You can also serve them with a side salad and fried rice.
What to serve with Polish dumplings?
Polish dumplings are delicious in their own right, but they also make a great partner to soups, stews, and other hearty main courses.
Here are some of our favorite side dishes for polish dumplings:
- Cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, or onions pickled in vinegar or brine
- Potato pancakes or potato salad
- Potatoes fried in bacon fat, or mashed potatoes and cheese
- Buttered green beans
- Fried or steamed zucchini
- Fried or steamed cabbage
- Mashed potatoes or polenta
- Baked beans
- Garlic bread
- Fried chicken or turkey
- Broccoli or cauliflower
- Green peas
- Grilled vegetables
- Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
How do you serve dumplings as a meal?
Dumplings can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. Serve them as a starter with a glass of red wine, or as a main dish with a salad. You can also serve them with a side of mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or roasted potatoes.
What meal are dumplings usually served at?
Dumplings are usually served at breakfast and brunch. You can also find them in the lunch and dinner menus, depending on the restaurant.
What to Serve with Dumplings – 80 Side Dishes
Ingredients
- Mandarin Broccoli Salad
- Shaved Fennel Salad
- Zucchini Panzanella Salad
- Apple Sausage Salad with Cinnamon Vinaigrette
- Cashew-Pear Tossed Salad
- Grilled Apple Tossed Salad
- Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
- Berry Tossed Salad
- Blueberry Romaine Salad
- Apple-Feta Tossed Salad
- Chicken Salad
- Guacamole Tossed Salad
- Almond Strawberry Salad
- Garden Chickpea Salad
- Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
- Peanut Sauce
- Chimichurri Sauce
- Romesco Sauce
- Teriyaki Sauce
- Roasted Tomato Sauce
- Grilled Chili Sauce
- Hollandaise Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Sesame Ginger Miso Dressing
- Tahini Sauce
- Tahini Dressing
- Kale Pesto Sauce
- Guacamole
- Hummus
- Salsa Verde
- Chicken Fried Rice
- Sweet and Spicy Noodles
- Instant Pot Coconut Rice
- Yakimeshi
- Sesame Ginger Noodles
- Cauliflower Fried Rice
- Spicy Red Sriracha Quinoa
- Chinese Hot and Sour Soup
- Vegan Thai Coconut Soup
- Egg Drop Soup
- Miến Gà (Vietnamese Clear Noodle Soup)
- Asian Chicken Noodle Soup
- Wonton Soup
- Miso Soup
- Chinese Noodle Soup with Chicken
- Thai Chicken and Rice Noodle Soup
- Asian Chicken Cabbage Soup
- Indian Tomato Soup
- Chinese Noodle Soup with Mushrooms
- Thai Red curry Vegetable Soup
- Ramen Vegetable Soup
- Vegetable Stir Fry
- Chicken Pot Pie
- Pasta
- Sweet and Sour Chicken Balls
- Vegan Summer Rolls
- Chili Garlic Tofu Scamble
- Pork Spring Rolls
- Tofu Sesame Toasts
- Scallion Pancakes
- Lettuce Wraps with Teriyaki Chickpeas
- Crab Cream Cheese Wontons
- Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls
- Soy Sauce Fried Rice
- Stir-Fried Baby Bok Choy
- Chinese Cucumber Salad
- Stir-Fried Choy Sum
- Spinach Ohitashi (Japanese Spinach Salad)
- Spicy Asian Zucchini
- Chinese Coleslaw
- Japanese Potato Salad
- Chinese Sausage Fried Rice
- Spicy Bean Sprout Salad
- Pepper Tree Alluvius Semillon
- Sake Black Honjozo
- Antonelli Montefalco Rosso Doc
- Nittnaus Leithaberg Altenberg Blaufränkisch
- Pheasant’s Tears Poliphonia
- Rangoon Ruby Cocktail
Instructions
- Pick any of these delicious sides.
- Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe.
- Enjoy your meal in no time!
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.