There’s something magical about dumplings—they’re tiny pockets of happiness that bring people together. Shrimp dumplings, in particular, have a way of combining fresh seafood sweetness with fragrant herbs and just the right chew from the wrapper. This recipe takes a lighter approach by using rice paper instead of traditional dumpling wrappers, making the dumplings delicate yet flavorful. With chives for freshness, sesame oil for nuttiness, and shrimp as the star protein, these dumplings are satisfying without being overly heavy. Whether steamed for a soft bite or pan-fried for a crispy edge, these dumplings will be a hit on any table, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant party appetizers.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 20 shrimp, cleaned

• 2 handfuls of fresh chives, finely chopped

• 10 sheets of rice paper

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon tuna extract

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Dipping Sauce (Optional)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• ½ tablespoon plum extract

(1 tablespoon = 15ml / 1 teaspoon = 5ml)

Cooking Directions

1. Begin by cleaning the shrimp thoroughly. Cut 10 shrimp in half, keeping the tails attached. Remove the tails separately and set aside for garnish.

2. Take the remaining 10 shrimp and coarsely chop them along with the halved shrimp. This gives the filling both texture and flavor depth.

3. Finely chop the chives and place them in a mixing bowl.

4. Add the chopped shrimp, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of tuna extract, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper to the chives. Mix everything together until well combined.

5. Soak a sheet of rice paper in cold water until it softens. Spread it gently on a flat surface.

6. Place 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of the rice paper and top with one of the halved shrimp tails for presentation.

7. Fold the rice paper in half over the filling, then roll it up tightly to seal the dumpling. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

8. Brush the dumplings lightly with sesame oil to keep them from sticking.

9. Steam the dumplings for 5–7 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the filling is firm. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them in a lightly oiled skillet until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

10. Serve hot with dipping sauce made by mixing soy sauce, vinegar, and plum extract. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Approx. per serving, 10 servings)

• Calories: 85

• Protein: 8 g

• Fat: 3 g

• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g

• Carbohydrates: 6 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sodium: 250 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These shrimp dumplings are the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. They’re light yet flavorful, making them suitable as a starter, snack, or even a main dish when served with sides. Using rice paper instead of traditional wheat wrappers makes them naturally gluten-free, and you can steam or fry them depending on your mood. They’re also easy to assemble, meaning you don’t need to be a dumpling master to pull them off. Plus, the combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic chives, and savory dipping sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Dumplings have a long history in Asian cuisine, with countless regional variations across China, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Shrimp dumplings, or har gow, are iconic in Cantonese dim sum, known for their translucent wrappers and delicate shrimp filling. This recipe takes inspiration from that tradition but simplifies the process by using rice paper wrappers, which are easier to find and handle at home. The result is a modern fusion dumpling that pays homage to classic flavors while offering a fresh twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp is the heart of this recipe, offering lean protein and natural sweetness. Chives provide a subtle onion-like aroma that pairs beautifully with seafood without overpowering it. Sesame oil adds richness and nutty depth, while tuna extract brings umami complexity that elevates the filling. Rice paper keeps the dumplings light and gluten-free, creating a chewy yet delicate wrapper. Together, these ingredients create layers of flavor and texture that make each bite exciting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Shrimp dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be made ahead and stored for later. If you want to prepare in advance, assemble the dumplings and place them in a single layer on a tray. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To cook, steam or fry directly from frozen—no need to thaw. If you have leftover cooked dumplings, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or pan-frying until hot. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wrappers rubbery.

Common Variations to Try

There are endless ways to adapt this dumpling recipe. For a vegetarian version, swap shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms or tofu. Add shredded carrots or cabbage to the filling for extra crunch. For spice lovers, mix in a dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of chili paste. You could also use chicken, pork, or even crabmeat instead of shrimp for different flavors. As for cooking, steaming keeps the dumplings tender, while frying gives them a satisfying crispiness.

Pairing Recommendations

These dumplings pair beautifully with light sides and refreshing drinks. Serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup for a balanced meal. They also work well with stir-fried vegetables or fried rice. For drinks, green tea complements the flavors without overpowering them, while a light lager or sparkling water with lime makes an excellent match. If you’re feeling fancy, serve them as an appetizer with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Health Benefits

Shrimp dumplings aren’t just tasty—they’re also nutritious. Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein, making these dumplings satisfying without being heavy. Chives add antioxidants and vitamins, while sesame oil provides healthy fats that support heart health. Rice paper keeps them lighter than wheat-based wrappers and is naturally gluten-free. When steamed, they’re lower in fat, while pan-frying gives a little indulgence without going overboard. With balanced ingredients, these dumplings are a wholesome option you can enjoy guilt-free.

Conclusion

Shrimp dumplings with rice paper are a delicious combination of simplicity and elegance. They’re fun to make, versatile to cook, and even easier to eat. From the juicy shrimp filling to the aromatic chives and nutty sesame oil, each bite is a burst of flavor wrapped in a delicate, chewy shell. Whether you steam them for a soft texture or fry them for a golden crisp, they’re guaranteed to impress. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring on your own, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes bring the most joy.