As the lunar New Year approaches, the excitement in the air is palpable, and the kitchen fills with enticing aromas reminiscent of family traditions. One of my favorite dishes to prepare during this festive time is Steamed Money Bag Dumplings—little pockets brimming with savory goodness that symbolize abundance and good fortune. The very sight of these golden treasures instantly elevates any gathering, sparking joy and conversation among friends and family. What makes these dumplings even more special is their vibrant vegetarian filling, combining the umami notes of shiitake mushrooms, the crunch of bamboo shoots, and the warmth of ginger, making each bite a flavorful delight.
Every time I whip up these dumplings, I’m reminded of how food can weave its way through our celebrations, connecting us with cherished memories and aspirations. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to create a stunning dish with ease. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into crafting these exquisite dumplings that are not only delicious but also steeped in cultural significance. Let’s make this Chinese New Year truly auspicious by bringing abundance to the table!
Money Bag Dumplings: Why are they lucky?
Symbol of Prosperity: These Money Bag Dumplings are not just delicious; they represent wealth and good fortune, making them essential for Chinese New Year celebrations.
Delectably Savory: Every bite bursts with the umami richness of shiitake mushrooms, complemented by the delightful crunch of bamboo shoots.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can craft these elegant dumplings without a hassle.
Cultural Connection: Sharing and enjoying these dumplings embodies tradition, creating lasting memories with family and friends during your festive gatherings.
Versatile Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling to your preference; you can even use leftovers or try gluten-free options for a twist!
Elevate your festive feast with these charming dumplings, and bring a touch of joy and abundance to your table this year!
Money Bag Dumpling Ingredients
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For the Filling
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Dried Shiitake Mushrooms – Adds umami flavor and texture; soak overnight for best results.
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Ginger – Provides a fresh kick; minced for warmth and depth.
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Carrot – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; finely diced for optimal cooking.
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Bamboo Shoots – Incorporates a crunchy texture; finely diced to enhance flavor complexity.
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Vegetable Oil – Used for stir-frying; can substitute with sesame oil for a richer taste.
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Shaoxing Wine – Introduces authentic depth; dry sherry works as a great substitute.
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Light Soy Sauce – Enhances umami and provides saltiness; adjust quantity for dietary needs.
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Vegetarian Oyster Sauce – Brings a savory note; regular oyster sauce is a suitable substitute.
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Scallions – Offers freshness; use primarily the green parts, finely chopped.
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Cilantro Stems – Serve as ties for the dumplings, adding herbaceous notes; can use garlic chives in place.
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For Wrapping
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Hong-Kong-Style Yellow Dumpling Wrappers – Forms the dumpling structure; substitute with napa cabbage leaves for a lighter option.
Gather these ingredients to create your Money Bag Dumplings, the perfect lucky foods for Chinese New Year celebrations, and bring abundance to your festive feast!
How to Make Money Bag Dumplings
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Prepare the Filling: Start by rehydrating the dried shiitake mushrooms in hot water for at least 2 hours. Once softened, finely dice the mushrooms along with ginger, carrots, and bamboo shoots. Sauté the ginger and carrots in vegetable oil over medium-low heat for 1 minute, then add the mushrooms and bamboo shoots, increasing the heat to medium. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce. Continue cooking until the mushrooms are tender and the mixture is dry. Stir in chopped scallions and let it cool completely.
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Make Ties: Blanch the cilantro stems in boiling water for approximately 5-10 seconds. Quickly transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking, then gently squeeze to dry, ensuring the stems remain intact for tying.
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Wrap Dumplings: Roll each dumpling wrapper into about a 4-inch diameter circle. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of the wrapper, gather the edges, and pinch them together to form a bag shape. Use the blanched cilantro stem to tie off the top securely. Repeat this process until all filling is used.
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Steam: Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, making sure to leave about 1 inch of space between them. Steam for 3 minutes or up to 15 minutes for alternative wrappers, until they are tender and cooked through.
Optional: Serve with soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Money Bag Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the dumplings and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before steaming. Just be sure to cover them with a damp towel to prevent the wrappers from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply steam the dumplings for 3 minutes (or 15 minutes for alternative wrappers), and you’ll have a delightful dish that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
Storage Tips for Money Bag Dumplings
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Room Temperature: Store freshly steamed Money Bag Dumplings at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours. They are best enjoyed right after steaming, but if you need to save some, refrigerate them.
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Fridge: Keep uneaten dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked Money Bag Dumplings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Steam from frozen, increasing the time as needed.
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Reheating: To reheat leftovers, steam them for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm with soy sauce or chili oil for an extra flavor kick!
Money Bag Dumplings: Tasty Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your dumplings with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili oil to the filling for a zesty flavor upgrade. It brings an exciting dimension that will awaken your taste buds.
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Mushroom Medley: Try a combination of different mushrooms like oyster or cremini to enhance the umami richness, giving your dumplings a complex and hearty flavor profile.
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Herbal Delight: Incorporate finely chopped herbs like Thai basil or mint into the filling for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Crunchy Texture: Mix in a handful of water chestnuts, adding delightful crunch to your filling. The contrast between the soft dumpling and the crunchy chestnuts will elevate each bite.
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Sweet Surprise: Include a small amount of finely diced sweet bell pepper or a touch of sugar to the filling, balancing flavors for a comforting sweet-savory combo.
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Protein Boost: Add finely chopped cooked tofu or tempeh for extra protein and texture, turning your dumplings into a heartier option. This creates a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and filling.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute the wrappers with rice paper or blanched cabbage leaves for a gluten-free experience without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy guilt-free dumplings that everyone can enjoy!
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Veggie Variety: Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or spinach in the filling. These options will add color, nutrition, and unique flavors, making each dumpling a surprise!
Expert Tips for Money Bag Dumplings
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality dried shiitake mushrooms for the best flavor in your Money Bag Dumplings.
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Don’t Rush Filling: Take your time when preparing the filling—this step enhances the overall taste and texture, making every bite delightful.
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Steam Wisely: Ensure your steamer is lined properly to prevent dumplings from sticking; this will keep their beautiful shapes intact during cooking.
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Wrap Tight: When forming the dumplings, make sure to pinch tightly to avoid any gaps that could cause leakage—this keeps the filling secure.
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Chill Before Steaming: If possible, allow dumplings to chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before steaming. This helps firm up the wrappers, making them easier to handle.
What to Serve with Steamed Money Bag Dumplings?
Create a delightful spread that complements the warm, savory flavors of your dumplings and elevates your celebration.
- Soy Sauce or Chili Oil: The classic pairing, offering umami depth or a spicy kick for dipping.
- Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy rolls add a different texture and vibrant veggies, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Steamed Bok Choy: Tender with a slight crunch, its mild flavor balances the richness of the dumplings beautifully.
- Savory Fried Rice: A fragrant blend of vegetables and rice rounds out your meal while staying true to those Asian flavor profiles.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: Juicy, colorful fruits like mandarin oranges and pineapple cleanse the palate, adding a refreshing touch.
- Herbal Tea: Soothe your senses with a warm cup of jasmine or chrysanthemum tea, perfectly complementing this auspicious dish.
- Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet coconut treat brings a luxurious finish to the meal, marrying tropical flavors with a creamy texture.
- Peanut Sauce: Drizzle over the dumplings or serve on the side for a nutty contrast that enhances their savory profile.
- Sesame Noodle Salad: The nuttiness of sesame adds an intriguing twist, creating an enjoyable duo with the dumplings.
- Almond Cookies: Finish off with these light, crispy cookies that sweeten the celebration and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Money Bag Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting dried shiitake mushrooms?
Absolutely! When choosing dried shiitake mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and unbroken, without any signs of dark spots all over. They should have a strong, earthy aroma. To prepare, soak them in hot water for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results!
How can I store leftover cooked Money Bag Dumplings?
You can store leftover Money Bag Dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. But remember, they are best enjoyed right after steaming for the fullest flavor!
Can I freeze uncooked Money Bag Dumplings?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked Money Bag Dumplings. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just steam them straight from the freezer, adding about 5 extra minutes to the steaming time.
What should I do if my dumpling wrappers crack while folding?
Very often, wrappers can crack if they’re too dry! To avoid this, always keep your wrappers covered with a damp towel while you work. If you do experience cracking, use a bit of water to seal the edges together. Alternatively, use a higher-quality wrapper, which can be more forgiving.
Are Money Bag Dumplings suitable for those with gluten sensitivities?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free adaptation, you can swap out the traditional dumpling wrappers for rice paper or even lightly blanched napa cabbage leaves. Just ensure that the other ingredients, like sauces, are also gluten-free.
How can I make sure my filling is flavorful?
To ensure your filling bursts with flavor, make sure to sauté your vegetables just enough to soften them and meld the flavors, usually around 2-3 minutes. Additionally, don’t skimp on seasoning; a splash of light soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce goes a long way in enhancing the umami richness of the filling.
Money Bag Dumplings: Lucky Foods for a Joyful Chinese New Year
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Start by rehydrating the dried shiitake mushrooms in hot water for at least 2 hours. Once softened, finely dice the mushrooms along with ginger, carrots, and bamboo shoots. Sauté the ginger and carrots in vegetable oil over medium-low heat for 1 minute. Then add the mushrooms and bamboo shoots, increasing the heat to medium. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce. Continue cooking until the mixture is dry. Stir in chopped scallions and let it cool completely.
- Make Ties: Blanch the cilantro stems in boiling water for approximately 5-10 seconds. Quickly transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking, then gently squeeze to dry.
- Wrap Dumplings: Roll each dumpling wrapper into about a 4-inch diameter circle. Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center, gather the edges, and pinch them together to form a bag shape. Use the blanched cilantro stem to tie off the top securely.
- Steam: Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Steam for 3 minutes or up to 15 minutes for alternative wrappers, until tender.