As I took my first bite of Kanom Jeeb, the airy dumpling practically melted in my mouth. These delightful Thai dumplings, filled with succulent minced pork and fragrant herbs, bring a taste of Thailand right into your kitchen. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—whether you choose to steam, boil, or deep-fry, they adapt beautifully to your cooking style. Plus, with gluten-free options available, everyone can join in on the fun! Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these dumplings are meant to impress and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Are you ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure?

Why are Thai Dumplings so irresistible?

Unique, Flavorful Experience: Kanom Jeeb brings a taste of Thailand that’s hard to resist with its savory pork filling and fragrant herbs.

Versatile Options: You can steam, boil, or deep-fry these dumplings, ensuring they meet everyone’s preference.

Gluten-Free Friendly: Easy modifications allow for gluten-free wrappers, making them accessible for all your guests.

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these dumplings are sure to impress your loved ones.

Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps and fresh ingredients, this recipe makes a delightful dish without hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for more easy ideas, check out our selection of authentic Thai recipes for even more delicious inspiration!

Thai Dumplings Ingredients

For the Filling

Ground Pork – Main filling that adds protein and flavor; feel free to substitute with minced shrimp or chicken for variety.
Egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring your filling holds together beautifully.
Coriander Roots – Imparts a distinctive herbal flavor; if unavailable, fresh coriander works in a pinch.
Black Peppercorns – Provides a lovely spiciness; swap with white pepper for a subtler taste.
Garlic – Essential for aroma and depth of flavor; it’s best to use fresh garlic for the most impact.
Carrots (finely diced) – Adds sweetness and a pleasant crunch; use finely chopped bell peppers if you prefer.
Green Onions (finely chopped) – Brightens the filling with freshness; chives can be a nice alternative.
Dried Shiitake Mushroom – Delivers umami notes once soaked and chopped; fresh mushrooms can be an acceptable substitute.

For the Sauce

Golden Mountain Sauce – A quintessential Thai seasoning that elevates flavor; soy sauce can be a substitute, though the taste may differ.
White Sugar – Balances out the savory elements; palm sugar can provide a more authentic touch if desired.
Oyster Sauce – Enriches the filling with savory goodness; vegan mushroom sauce works well if you’re avoiding seafood.
Cornstarch – Necessary to bind the filling together; tapioca starch can be an excellent alternative if needed.

For the Wrappers

Dumpling Wrappers – Essential for encasing the filling; gluten-free wrappers are available for those with sensitivities.

For Cooking

Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor; olive or vegetable oil can serve as other options if you’re in a pinch.
Garlic Oil – Provides extra flavor on the wrappers, optional but delightful.
Crispy Fried Garlic – Wonderful for garnishing; it’s also optional but offers a delightful crunch.

These Thai Dumplings are sure to create a memorable experience, perfect for sharing and savoring together!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Kanom Jeeb: Flavorful Thai Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare Spice Mixture
Begin by preparing the fragrant spice mixture for your delicious Thai dumplings. In a mortar and pestle, pound together the coriander roots, black peppercorns, and minced garlic until they form a fine paste, releasing a delightful aroma. This should take about 5 minutes. Set the mixture aside to seamlessly blend with the filling later.

Step 2: Make Filling
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the golden mountain sauce, white sugar, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. Stir in the ground pork alongside the beaten egg and cornstarch, mixing until you achieve a smooth and cohesive filling. This will take about 3-5 minutes. This savory mixture will be the heart of your Kanom Jeeb.

Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables
Once your filling is smooth, add the previously crushed spice mixture and the diced vegetables, which include carrots and green onions. Gently fold these ingredients into the pork mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors and textures. This should take another 2–3 minutes. The vibrant colors and aromas will surely entice your senses.

Step 4: Shape Dumplings
It’s time to shape your authentic Kanom Jeeb! Take a dumpling wrapper and place about one tablespoon of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, then fold it over to create a half-moon shape, pinching the edges tightly to seal. Continue until all your filling is used, laying each formed dumpling on a parchment-lined tray for easy handling.

Step 5: Steam
Prepare your steamer by adding water and bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, carefully place the dumplings inside, making sure they are not touching each other. Steam them for about 10 minutes or until the wrappers turn translucent. You’ll know they’re ready when the pork filling is cooked through and the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 6: Serve
Finally, remove your steaming hot Thai dumplings and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve them immediately with your choice of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce or Thai sweet chili sauce. The Kanom Jeeb should be enjoyed warm, allowing the juicy filling and delicate wrapper to shine in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Thai Dumplings

Fridge: Store cooked Thai dumplings in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray and, once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat steamed dumplings directly in the steamer for about 5 minutes or microwave them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare dumplings ahead of time and refrigerate them for several hours before cooking, allowing for quick and easy meal preparations later.

Thai Dumplings: Variations & Substitutions

Looking to add your personal touch to these delightful Thai dumplings? Let your culinary creativity shine with these simple swaps and variations!

Protein Swap: Replace minced pork with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different flavor profile. It’s a great way to cater to different dietary needs.
Vegan Version: Use a combination of tofu and mushrooms instead of meat, and swap oyster sauce for mushroom sauce to keep it plant-based. Your vegan friends will appreciate the thought!
Spice it Up: Add a dash of chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the filling for an extra kick. This will give your Kanom Jeeb a delightful heat without overpowering the savory flavors.
Textural Twist: Incorporate finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for added crunch in your filling. These ingredients will give a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with the tender dumpling wrapper.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or mint along with the coriander for a refreshing twist. Each bite will awaken your senses with a burst of flavor that transports you straight to Thailand!
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free dumpling wrappers to make this dish accessible to everyone. Pair them with a gluten-free soy sauce for dipping, ensuring nobody misses out.
Sweet Surprise: For a unique dessert version, fill the wrappers with sweetened coconut and a sprinkle of sugar instead of savory ingredients. Steam and serve with a drizzle of coconut milk for a delightful treat.
Rich Seeder: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter to the filling for a creamy texture that complements the savory elements wonderfully. It’s a perfect marriage of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Feel free to check out our other recipes or take a look at how to make delicious Thai sweet chili sauce to elevate your Thai dumpling experience! With these variations, you’re sure to make a memorable meal that creates lasting memories!

What to Serve with Authentic Kanom Jeeb?

Experience a culinary delight that perfectly complements your flavorful Thai dumplings, enhancing your dining experience!

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: A perfect dip offering a sweet and spicy balance, elevating the dumplings’ savory taste.
Coconut Rice: Creamy and fragrant, this rice dish adds a delightful texture, blending beautifully with the dumplings.

Pair a stir-fried vegetable medley alongside for a burst of freshness. With vibrant colors and crisp textures, it’s a wonderful contrast to the tenderness of Kanom Jeeb.

Miso Soup: Light and savory, this warm accompaniment adds umami depth, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
Pickled Vegetables: Their tangy crunch brings an exciting palate cleanse, enhancing the overall meal without overwhelming the dumplings.
Thai Iced Tea: This creamy, sweet drink perfectly cools the palate and adds a refreshing flavor contrast to the warm dumplings.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic Thai sweet dish offers a comforting finish to your meal, keeping the flavors authentically Thai.

Expert Tips for Making Thai Dumplings

Keep Ingredients Fresh: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for the filling to elevate the flavors in your Thai dumplings. Dried ingredients can dull the taste.
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the dumpling wrappers to ensure they seal properly. This prevents leaks during cooking, ensuring a juicy bite.
Moisture is Key: Maintain a moist environment in the steamer to cook the dumplings evenly. Dry steamers can lead to tough wrappers and uneven cooking.
Test the Oil Temperature: When deep-frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature before adding dumplings. They should sizzle upon contact for a perfect crispy texture.
Variations Galore: Experiment with different proteins or vegetables in your filling to create personalized Thai dumplings, appealing to diverse taste buds.

Make Ahead Options

These Thai dumplings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling and shape the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you want to get ahead even further, you can freeze the uncooked Thai dumplings for up to 3 months; just lay them flat on a tray to freeze before transferring them to a freezer bag (this prevents them from sticking together). When you’re ready to enjoy them, steam the dumplings straight from the freezer, increasing your steaming time by a few minutes, and you’ll have a delightful meal with minimal effort!

Kanom Jeeb (Thai Dumplings) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground pork for my dumplings?
Absolutely! When selecting ground pork, look for meat with a good balance of fat to keep the filling juicy and flavorful. Aim for ground pork that’s around 20% fat; this will ensure your dumplings are tender and moist after cooking. Avoid overly lean options, as they may result in a dry texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Thai dumplings?
Very! To keep your cooked Thai dumplings fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. If you have uncooked dumplings, you can assemble them ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours. Just be sure to avoid stacking them, as this may cause them to stick together.

How can I freeze uncooked Thai dumplings properly?
For sure! Start by arranging your uncooked dumplings on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they’re not touching each other. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll last for up to 3 months! This method makes it easy to pull out just what you need without defrosting the entire batch.

What should I do if my dumpling wrappers tear while shaping?
Don’t fret! If a wrapper tears, simply take a small piece of extra dough or another wrapper to patch it. You can also moisten the edges of the tear to help seal it together more effectively. If the wrapper seems too dry, a quick dip in warm water can also soften it, making it easier to handle.

Are there any dietary considerations for these Thai dumplings?
Definitely! If you’re preparing these dumplings for someone with gluten sensitivity, opt for gluten-free wrappers, which are widely available. You can also adjust the filling for dietary needs by using ground chicken or tofu to make them vegetarian or indeed avoiding oyster sauce in favor of mushroom sauce for vegan options.

How do I ensure my dumplings come out tender and not rubbery?
Ah, great question! The key to tender dumplings is not overcooking them and ensuring the right moisture level during steaming. Aim for a steady, gentle steam for about 10 minutes. Additionally, keeping the filling well balanced with moisture from the sauces and not overfilling the wrappers helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’re craving.