Dumplings come in different shapes and sizes, and sometimes it’s difficult to know what to serve them with. In this article, we will explore the best sides for Chinese dumplings to elevate your next meal with traditional and tasty accompaniments. From Asian-inspired dishes to European classics, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options that will enhance the flavors of your dumplings.
Chinese dumplings, also known as jiaozi or potstickers, are a popular dish enjoyed by people around the world. These savory bites are filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, beef, vegetables, or seafood, and are often served with sauces like soy sauce or chili oil for dipping. While dumplings can be delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Chinese dumplings can be served with a variety of side dishes to enhance their flavors.
- Asian-inspired dishes, such as ramen or cucumber salad, complement the flavors of Chinese dumplings.
- European classics, like baked mozzarella pasta or potato salad, add depth and variety to your dumpling meal.
- American-style side dishes, such as sweet and spicy mac n cheese or french fries, provide a comforting and flavorful element to your meal.
- Consider the cooking method of the dumplings when choosing side dishes – steamed and boiled dumplings pair well with light and refreshing sides, while pan-fried and deep-fried dumplings can be complemented by dishes with bolder flavors.
Asian Dumpling Side Dishes
Asian dumplings, such as Jiaozi and Gyoza, are not only delicious on their own but also pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. These traditional accompaniments enhance the flavors of the dumplings and create a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re looking for the best side dishes for Asian dumplings or Asian-inspired options to complement your dumpling feast, we’ve got you covered.
Popular Asian Dumpling Side Dishes
Here are some popular Asian dumpling side dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Ramen | A warm and comforting noodle soup with savory broth and various toppings. |
| Tomato and Egg Stir Fry | A simple and flavorful dish made with tomatoes, eggs, and aromatics. |
| Fried Greens | Crispy and seasoned greens, such as bok choy or Chinese broccoli. |
| Chili Miso Steamed Eggplant | Soft and succulent eggplant steamed with a spicy and tangy miso sauce. |
| Pork Belly Fried Rice | Fried rice tossed with tender and juicy pork belly. |
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in a tangy sauce. |
| Tahini Miso Noodles | Noodles coated in a creamy and nutty tahini miso sauce. |
| Claypot Tofu | A hearty and flavorful tofu dish cooked in a claypot for an extra satisfying meal. |
These mouthwatering Asian-inspired dumpling sides provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures that complement the dumplings beautifully. Serve them alongside your dumplings to elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.
European Dumpling Side Dishes
European dumplings, such as Pierogi and Marillenknödel, can be paired with a variety of tasty side dishes to enhance your dining experience. These traditional accompaniments add depth and variety to your meal, complementing the flavors of the dumplings. Here are some popular European-inspired dumpling sides to consider:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Green Salad | A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. |
| Stew | A hearty and comforting stew filled with tender meats and vegetables, perfect for a cold winter’s day. |
| Mashed Potato | Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes, a classic side dish that pairs well with any type of dumpling. |
| ‘Nduja Cheesy Slider | A delicious slider made with spicy ‘nduja sausage and melted cheese, adding a punch of flavor to your meal. |
| Pollo Picante Pasta | A spicy chicken pasta dish with a kick of heat, providing an exciting contrast to the dumplings. |
| Potato Salad | A refreshing and creamy salad made with boiled potatoes, fresh herbs, and tangy dressing. |
| Chipotle Carbonara | A smoky and spicy twist on the classic carbonara pasta, combining bold flavors with the dumplings. |
| Baked Mozzarella Pasta | A cheesy and gooey pasta bake with melted mozzarella and savory tomato sauce. |
These European dumpling side dishes offer a range of flavors and textures, from light and refreshing salads to comforting and indulgent pasta dishes. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings and enjoy a satisfying meal with the best sides for European dumplings.
Why Choose European-Inspired Dumpling Sides?
European cooking is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions, offering a wide array of flavors and techniques. By pairing European dumplings with traditional side dishes, you can create a balanced and delicious meal that pays homage to the continent’s gastronomic heritage.
European dumpling side dishes provide a delightful contrast to the dumplings themselves. While the dumplings may be soft and doughy, the sides offer a range of textures, from crisp green salad leaves to creamy mashed potatoes. The flavors also vary, from the tangy vinaigrette dressing of a green salad to the smoky spiciness of a chipotle carbonara.
Additionally, European dumpling sides often feature locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods, allowing you to experience the authentic flavors of the region. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side or a hearty and indulgent dish, the European-inspired options have something for everyone.
So, when it comes to serving European dumplings, consider these traditional accompaniments. They will not only enhance the flavors of the dumplings but also add a touch of European flair to your meal.
American Dumpling Side Dishes
American dumplings, such as Chicken & Dumplings and Empanadas, can be served with a range of delicious side dishes. These traditional accompaniments enhance the flavors of the dumplings and add a comforting and flavorful element to your meal. From hearty loaded mashed potatoes to spicy mac n cheese, here are some popular American-inspired dumpling sides:
1. Loaded Mashed Potato
Indulge in creamy mashed potatoes loaded with toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, chives, and sour cream. The rich and savory flavors of loaded mashed potatoes pair perfectly with American dumplings.
2. Sweet and Spicy Mac n Cheese
Enjoy the classic comfort food, mac n cheese, with a twist. Add a kick of heat with some diced jalapenos or a touch of sweetness with caramelized onions. The combination of cheesy goodness and bold flavors complements the taste of American dumplings.
3. Venezuelan Arepas
Experience the flavors of Venezuela with arepas. These cornmeal patties can be stuffed with various fillings such as shredded beef, black beans, cheese, and avocado. The crunchy exterior and savory fillings make arepas a delightful accompaniment to American dumplings.
4. French Fries
When it comes to classic American comfort food, french fries are a perfect side dish for dumplings. Whether you prefer shoestring, waffle, or curly fries, their crispy texture and saltiness complement the soft and savory goodness of American dumplings.
5. Fried Vegetables
Add some vibrant colors and flavors to your plate with a side of fried vegetables. Lightly breaded and fried zucchini, broccoli, or mixed vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of American dumplings.
Enjoy these popular American dumpling side dishes and elevate your next meal with the perfect accompaniments.
Asian-Style Dumpling Side Dishes Recipes
If you prefer to make your own side dishes to serve with Asian-style dumplings, we’ve got you covered. Try these delicious recipes:
- Noodle Soup: A comforting and flavorful broth-based soup with Chinese noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein.
- Vietnamese-inspired Summer Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing.
- Sticky Ginger Eggplant: Tender eggplant stir-fried with sweet and savory ginger sauce for a delightful accompaniment.
- Easy Spam Ramen with Egg: A quick and tasty ramen dish featuring the unexpected addition of spam and a perfectly cooked egg.
- Claypot Tofu: Fragrant and flavorful tofu cooked in a claypot with mushrooms, vegetables, and a savory sauce.
- Green Tahini Miso Ramen: A vibrant and nourishing ramen bowl with green vegetables, tahini, and miso broth.
- Pork Belly Fried Rice: A satisfying and aromatic fried rice dish with tender pork belly, vegetables, and a hint of savory flavors.
These homemade dishes will elevate your dumpling meal and impress your guests.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Noodle Soup | A comforting and flavorful broth-based soup with Chinese noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein. |
| Vietnamese-inspired Summer Salad | A refreshing salad with crunchy vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. |
| Sticky Ginger Eggplant | Tender eggplant stir-fried with sweet and savory ginger sauce for a delightful accompaniment. |
| Easy Spam Ramen with Egg | A quick and tasty ramen dish featuring the unexpected addition of spam and a perfectly cooked egg. |
| Claypot Tofu | Fragrant and flavorful tofu cooked in a claypot with mushrooms, vegetables, and a savory sauce. |
| Green Tahini Miso Ramen | A vibrant and nourishing ramen bowl with green vegetables, tahini, and miso broth. |
| Pork Belly Fried Rice | A satisfying and aromatic fried rice dish with tender pork belly, vegetables, and a hint of savory flavors. |
European-Style Dumpling Side Dishes Recipes
For those who enjoy European-style dumplings, we have some tasty recipes for you to try. These homemade dishes will complement the flavors of your dumplings and add a touch of European flair to your meal.
Baked Mozzarella Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines al dente pasta, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. The creamy texture of the cheese pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of European-style dumplings. It’s a comforting and satisfying side dish that will leave you craving for more.
Cheesy ‘Nduja Slider
Spice up your meal with a delicious cheesy ‘nduja slider. Toasted buns filled with spicy ‘nduja spread, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings make for a mouthwatering accompaniment to your dumplings. It’s a flavorful and satisfying combination that will elevate your dining experience.
Potato Salad
A classic European side dish, potato salad is a simple yet delicious addition to your dumpling feast. Creamy potatoes, tangy mayonnaise, and fresh herbs create a refreshing side that complements the flavors of the dumplings. Serve it chilled for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.
Chipotle Carbonara
Put a spicy twist on a traditional carbonara with chipotle peppers. The smoky heat of the chipotle peppers adds a bold and flavorful kick to the creamy pasta sauce. This dish pairs exceptionally well with European-style dumplings, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Loaded Mashed Potato
Take your mashed potatoes to the next level with a loaded version. Top your creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and chives for a savory and satisfying side dish. The creamy texture and savory flavors of the mashed potatoes complement the dumplings beautifully.
Try these European-style dumpling side dish recipes and enhance your dumpling meal with a touch of European culinary delights.
American-Style Dumpling Side Dishes Recipes
Create a delicious feast with homemade American-style dumpling side dishes. These easy recipes will enhance the flavors of your dumplings and add a touch of Americana to your meal.
Sweet and Spicy Mac n Cheese
A classic comfort dish with a twist, this mac n cheese is a perfect pairing for American-style dumplings. The combination of creamy cheese and a hint of spice complements the hearty flavors of the dumplings.
Venezuelan Arepas
Try these corn pockets filled with flavorful meats, cheese, and vegetables. Arepas are a popular street food in Venezuela and make a tasty side dish for American dumplings.
French Fries
Indulge in crispy, golden french fries to accompany your dumplings. The combination of soft dumplings and crunchy fries creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavors.
Fried Vegetables
Bring some color and freshness to your dumpling meal with a side of lightly battered and fried vegetables. The crispy texture and vibrant flavors of the vegetables complement the richness of the dumplings.
Tips for Pairing Dumplings with Side Dishes
Pairing dumplings with the right side dishes is essential to create a truly memorable dining experience. By selecting complementary flavors and considering the cooking method of the dumplings, you can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect side dishes for your dumplings:
1. Consider the cooking method:
Different cooking methods produce different flavors and textures in dumplings. Steamed and boiled dumplings have a delicate, moist filling and pair well with light and refreshing side dishes. Think crisp salads, pickled vegetables, or chilled noodles.
On the other hand, pan-fried and deep-fried dumplings have a crispy exterior and a rich, savory filling. These dumplings can be complemented by dishes with bolder flavors, such as stir-fried vegetables, spicy sauces, or savory fried rice.
2. Balance flavors:
When selecting side dishes for your dumplings, aim for a balance of flavors that will enhance the overall taste. If your dumplings have a subtle flavor, consider serving them with a dipping sauce that adds a touch of tanginess or spiciness. Alternatively, if your dumplings are already packed with bold flavors, opt for more mild and complementary side dishes to avoid overwhelming the palate.
3. Experiment with cultural pairings:
Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide range of cuisines. Consider exploring different cultures and their traditional accompaniments. For example, pair Chinese dumplings with classic Asian dishes like kimchi or seaweed salad. Or, try serving European-style dumplings with a side of sauerkraut and roasted potatoes.
4. Embrace variety:
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different side dishes to create a diverse and exciting meal. By offering a variety of flavors and textures, you can keep your dining experience interesting and satisfy different preferences. Consider creating a platter of dumplings with multiple dipping sauces and an assortment of side dishes to cater to everyone’s taste.
“Pairing dumplings with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level, enhancing the flavors and creating a well-rounded dining experience.”
Remember, the key to pairing dumplings with side dishes is to experiment and have fun. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and combinations to find your personal favorites. Whether you’re enjoying traditional Asian dumplings or exploring international variations, the right side dishes can elevate your dumpling feast to something truly special.
Choosing the Perfect Wine Pairing with Dumplings
If you want to take your dumpling experience to the next level, consider pairing them with the perfect wine. The right wine can elevate the flavors of the dumplings and create a harmonious culinary experience. Here are some suggestions for wine pairings with different types of dumplings:
Pairings for Asian Dumplings
- Potstickers: A refreshing rosé or an off-dry Riesling complements the savory flavors of potstickers, balancing the richness with a touch of sweetness.
- Gyoza: Try a thirst-quenching Gamay with gyoza, as its lively acidity and fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the umami flavors of the dumplings.
- Har Gow: For these delicate shrimp dumplings, a restrained sparkler like Cava adds a touch of elegance and effervescence, enhancing the seafood flavors.
- Wontons: Accompany wontons with a shapely B.C. Pinot Gris, its crispness and stone fruit flavors providing a refreshing contrast to the savory dumplings.
Pairings for Italian Dumplings
- Tortellini and Ravioli: Soave Classico is an excellent choice to pair with these Italian dumplings. Its citrusy notes and floral aromas complement the rich fillings, creating a well-balanced combination.
- Perogies: Opt for a savoury Rhone white wine with perogies. Its full-bodied character and herbaceous undertones bring out the earthy flavors of the dumplings.
Experiment with these wine pairings, but also feel free to explore other options and find your own perfect match. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between the flavors of the dumplings and the characteristics of the wine. The right pairing can enhance your dining experience and make your dumpling meal even more enjoyable.
Conclusion
When it comes to serving Chinese dumplings, the options are endless. From Asian-inspired dishes to European classics, there is a wide range of side dishes that can elevate the flavors of your dumplings and create a well-rounded meal. Whether you choose to go with traditional accompaniments or experiment with unique flavors, the key is to find the perfect balance of taste and texture to complement your dumplings.
Asian dumplings pair well with a variety of dishes such as ramen, cucumber salad, and claypot tofu. European-style dumplings can be enjoyed with green salad, baked mozzarella pasta, or cheesy ‘nduja sliders. On the other hand, American-style dumplings go perfectly with loaded mashed potato, sweet and spicy mac n cheese, or crunchy french fries.
For those who prefer homemade dishes, we’ve provided easy and delicious recipes that you can try. Serve your Asian-style dumplings with homemade noodle soup, sticky ginger eggplant, or pork belly fried rice. European-style dumplings can be complemented with a homemade green salad, baked mozzarella pasta, or loaded mashed potato. And for a taste of Americana, try making sweet and spicy mac n cheese, Venezuelan arepas, or fried vegetables to accompany your American-style dumplings.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider wine pairings to elevate your dumpling experience even further. From rosé and Riesling to sparkling wine and Pinot Gris, there are plenty of options to explore. Experiment with different wines to find the perfect match for your dumplings.
FAQ
What are some popular options for side dishes to serve with Asian dumplings?
Popular options for Asian dumpling side dishes include ramen, tomato and egg stir fry, fried greens, chili miso steamed eggplant, pork belly fried rice, cucumber salad, tahini miso noodles, and claypot tofu.
What are some great side dishes to pair with European dumplings?
Great side dishes to pair with European dumplings include green salad, stew, mashed potato, cheesy ‘nduja slider, pollo picante pasta, potato salad, chipotle carbonara, and baked mozzarella pasta.
What are some delicious side dishes to serve with American dumplings?
Delicious side dishes to serve with American dumplings include loaded mashed potato, sweet and spicy mac n cheese, Venezuelan arepas, french fries, and fried vegetables.
Do you have any homemade side dish recipes for Asian-style dumplings?
Yes, you can try recipes like noodle soup, Vietnamese-inspired summer salad, sticky ginger eggplant, easy spam ramen with egg, claypot tofu, green tahini miso ramen, and pork belly fried rice.
Can you provide some homemade side dish recipes for European-style dumplings?
Certainly! You can make a green salad, baked mozzarella pasta, cheesy ‘nduja slider, potato salad, chipotle carbonara, or enjoy loaded mashed potato as side dishes for European-style dumplings.
Are there any recommended homemade side dish recipes for American-style dumplings?
Yes, you can try making sweet and spicy mac n cheese, Venezuelan arepas, french fries, and fried vegetables as homemade side dishes for American-style dumplings.
How can I choose the right side dishes to pair with dumplings?
Consider the cooking method of the dumplings – steamed and boiled dumplings pair well with light and refreshing side dishes, while pan-fried and deep-fried dumplings can be complemented by dishes with bolder flavors.
What is the perfect wine pairing for dumplings?
Potstickers go well with a rosé or off-dry Riesling, gyoza can be enjoyed with a thirst-quenching Gamay, har gow pairs nicely with a restrained sparkler like Cava, and wontons can be accompanied by a shapely B.C. Pinot Gris. Italian dumplings like tortellini and ravioli can be paired with Soave Classico or Nebbiolo, while perogies go well with a savory Rhone white. Experiment with different wine pairings to find your perfect match.
What are the best tips for pairing dumplings with side dishes?
Consider the cooking method of the dumplings, the flavors of the dumplings, and the flavors of the side dishes. Steamed and boiled dumplings pair well with light and refreshing side dishes, while pan-fried and deep-fried dumplings can be complemented by dishes with bolder flavors. Choose flavors that complement each other and create a well-rounded meal.
Any final thoughts on what to serve with Chinese dumplings?
Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide range of side dishes to enhance their flavors. Whether you prefer Asian-inspired dishes, European classics, or American comfort food, there are endless possibilities for creating the perfect meal with dumplings. Don’t forget to serve a flavorful dipping sauce alongside your dumplings and experiment with different wine pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Source Links
- https://myriadrecipes.com/what-to-eat-dumplings-with-30-best-dumpling-side-dishes/
- https://www.greedygirlgourmet.com/what-to-serve-with-chinese-dumplings/
- https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/dumplings-wine-pair-2017
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