Dumplings & Apps

Mandu Korean Dumplings

Name: Mandu Korean Dumplings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 20 servings
Ingredients: 2 packages of round dumpling wrappers (about 40-50 wrappers total); 1 lb (450g) ground pork; 1/2 cup (115g) kimchi, finely chopped; 1/4 cup (30g) green onions, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (60g) Korean chili flakes (gochugaru); 2 tbsp (30g) soy sauce; 1 tbsp (15g) sesame oil; 1 tsp (5g) sugar; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elias Merriweather · June 19, 2026 · Dumplings & Apps

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total50 min

Serves20

I still remember the first time I had Mandu Korean Dumplings - it was like a taste explosion in my mouth. The combination of the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior was absolute perfection. As I delved deeper into the world of Korean cuisine, I discovered that Mandu is a staple in Korean households, often served as a snack or appetizer. What I love about this recipe is that it's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

The key to making great Mandu is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overwork the dough. This will ensure that your dumplings are tender and full of flavor. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of ground pork and kimchi to give our dumplings a spicy kick. We'll also be adding some green onions and garlic to give it an extra layer of flavor.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Korean cuisine or is looking to try something new. The best part is that you can make a big batch of these dumplings and freeze them for later, making it a great meal prep option. Whether you're serving them as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these Mandu Korean Dumplings are sure to be a hit.

In this recipe, we'll be covering everything from the basics of making the dough to the different cooking methods you can use to achieve the perfect texture. We'll also be discussing some common mistakes to avoid and some variations you can try to make the recipe your own. So, let's get started and make some delicious Mandu Korean Dumplings!

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's very versatile. You can serve the dumplings on their own as a snack, or you can add them to a larger meal. They're also great as a topping for noodle dishes or salads. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
The dumplings are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delight to eat
The combination of ground pork and kimchi gives the dumplings a spicy kick
The recipe is versatile and can be served as a snack or as part of a larger meal
The dumplings can be made ahead of time and frozen for later, making them a great meal prep option
The recipe is authentic and uses traditional Korean ingredients and cooking techniques

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Mandu Korean Dumplings is to use the right combination of ingredients and to cook them using the right techniques. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of ground pork and kimchi to give our dumplings a spicy kick. We'll also be adding some green onions and garlic to give it an extra layer of flavor.

The cooking technique is also important. We'll be pan-frying the dumplings to give them a crispy exterior, and then steaming them to cook the interior. This will ensure that the dumplings are cooked evenly and that they retain their flavor and texture.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of the right seasonings. We'll be using a combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and Korean chili flakes to give the dumplings a rich and savory flavor. These seasonings will also help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients and to add depth to the dish.

Overall, this recipe works because it combines the right ingredients, cooking techniques, and seasonings to create a dish that is both delicious and authentic. By following this recipe, you'll be able to make Mandu Korean Dumplings that are just like the ones you'd find in a Korean restaurant.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Mandu Korean Dumplings, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The most important ingredient is the dumpling wrappers, which can be found in the frozen food section of most Asian grocery stores. You'll also need some ground pork, kimchi, green onions, garlic, and a few other seasonings.

When shopping for the ingredients, make sure to choose high-quality dumpling wrappers that are thin and pliable. You'll also want to choose a good-quality kimchi that is spicy and flavorful. The other ingredients are relatively easy to find and can be substituted if necessary.

2 packages of round dumpling wrappers (about 40-50 wrappers total)Make sure to choose high-quality dumpling wrappers that are thin and pliable. You can find them in the frozen food section of most Asian grocery stores.
1 lb (450g) ground porkYou can use either lean or regular ground pork for this recipe. If you're using lean ground pork, you may want to add a little bit of fat to the mixture to keep it moist.
1/2 cup (115g) kimchi, finely choppedChoose a good-quality kimchi that is spicy and flavorful. You can use either homemade or store-bought kimchi for this recipe.
1/4 cup (30g) green onions, finely choppedMake sure to use the green and white parts of the onion, as they add a lot of flavor to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, mincedYou can use either fresh or fermented garlic for this recipe. If you're using fermented garlic, you may want to reduce the amount to 1 clove, as it can be quite strong.
1/4 cup (60g) Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)These flakes add a lot of heat to the dish, so use them sparingly. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
2 tbsp (30g) soy sauceUse a high-quality soy sauce that is rich and savory. You can use either regular or low-sodium soy sauce for this recipe.
1 tbsp (15g) sesame oilThis oil adds a lot of flavor to the dish, so use it sparingly. You can also use other oils, such as vegetable or peanut oil, if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) sugarThis adds a touch of sweetness to the dish, balancing out the heat from the chili flakes.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
Salt and pepper to tasteAdjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt, pepper, or chili flakes as needed.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting boardKnifeLarge skillet or wok with a lidInstant-read thermometerTongs or spatulaPlate or tray for serving

How to Make Mandu Korean Dumplings

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped kimchi, green onions, garlic, Korean chili flakes, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2
Lay a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface and place a tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3
Dip your finger in a small amount of water and run it along the edge of the wrapper. This will help the wrapper stick together when you fold it.
4
Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5
Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling, making sure to seal each dumpling tightly.
6
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a couple of tablespoons of oil. When the oil is hot, add a few of the dumplings to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it.
7
Pan-fry the dumplings until they are golden brown on the bottom, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add a small amount of water to the pan and cover it with a lid.
8
Steam the dumplings for 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165 F.
9
Remove the dumplings from the pan and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. You can also add them to a larger meal, such as a noodle dish or a stir-fry.
10
To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
11
To cook frozen dumplings, simply pan-fry them as you would fresh dumplings, or steam them for a few extra minutes until they are cooked through.
12
To make a dipping sauce, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a small bowl. Add a pinch of sugar and a few grinds of black pepper, and stir everything together until it is well combined.
13
Serve the dumplings with the dipping sauce and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Make sure to handle the dumpling wrappers gently, as they can tear easily.
Don't overfill the dumplings, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking.
Use a thermometer to ensure that the dumplings are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Experiment with different seasonings and fillings to create unique flavor combinations.
Consider making a large batch of dumplings and freezing them for later, as they can be a convenient and delicious meal option.
Don't be afraid to get creative with the dipping sauce, adding your own favorite ingredients and seasonings to make it your own.
If you're having trouble getting the dumplings to seal, try using a little bit of water to help the edges stick together.
To add some extra flavor to the dumplings, try adding a few drops of sesame oil or a sprinkle of Korean chili flakes to the filling before cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overworking the dough, which can make the dumplings tough and dense.
Not sealing the dumplings tightly enough, which can cause them to burst open during cooking.
Not cooking the dumplings to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dumplings.
Not handling the dumpling wrappers gently, which can cause them to tear or break.
Not freezing the dumplings properly, which can cause them to become soggy or develop off-flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding some grated ginger or garlic to the filling for extra flavor.
Using different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, to create unique flavor combinations.
Adding some chopped vegetables, such as cabbage or carrots, to the filling for added nutrition.
Using different types of dumpling wrappers, such as wheat or rice flour, to create unique textures.
Experimenting with different seasonings and spices, such as Korean chili flakes or soy sauce, to create unique flavor profiles.
Adding some kimchi or other fermented ingredients to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
Using a combination of pork and vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to create a hearty and flavorful filling.

What to Serve With Mandu Korean Dumplings

Mandu Korean Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve them as a snack or appetizer, or add them to a larger meal, such as a noodle dish or a stir-fry.

Some popular serving options include serving the dumplings with a dipping sauce, such as a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. You can also add some sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top of the dumplings for extra flavor and texture.

Serve the dumplings with a dipping sauce, such as a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.Add some sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top of the dumplings for extra flavor and texture.Serve the dumplings as a snack or appetizer, or add them to a larger meal, such as a noodle dish or a stir-fry.Experiment with different seasonings and spices to create unique flavor combinations.Try using different types of meat or filling, such as beef, chicken, or vegetables, to create unique flavor combinations.Serve the dumplings with a side of kimchi or other fermented ingredients for an extra kick of flavor.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Mandu Korean Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To store them in the refrigerator, simply place them in a covered container and keep them refrigerated at a temperature of 40 F or below.

To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F or below.

To reheat the dumplings, simply pan-fry them or steam them until they are cooked through and hot. You can also microwave them for a few seconds, but be careful not to overcook them.

It's also important to note that Mandu Korean Dumplings can be made ahead of time and frozen for later, making them a convenient and delicious meal option. Simply thaw the frozen dumplings and cook them according to the recipe instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook Mandu Korean Dumplings?

The best way to cook Mandu Korean Dumplings is to pan-fry them until they are golden brown on the bottom, and then steam them until they are cooked through. You can also cook them in a skillet or wok with a little bit of oil and water, or steam them in a steamer basket.

Can I freeze Mandu Korean Dumplings?

Yes, you can freeze Mandu Korean Dumplings. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F or below.

How long do Mandu Korean Dumplings last in the refrigerator?

Mandu Korean Dumplings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply place them in a covered container and keep them refrigerated at a temperature of 40 F or below.

Can I make Mandu Korean Dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Mandu Korean Dumplings ahead of time. Simply assemble the dumplings and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to cook them.

What is the best dipping sauce for Mandu Korean Dumplings?

The best dipping sauce for Mandu Korean Dumplings is a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. You can also add some sugar, garlic, and ginger to the sauce for extra flavor.

Can I use different types of meat or filling for Mandu Korean Dumplings?

Yes, you can use different types of meat or filling for Mandu Korean Dumplings. Some popular options include beef, chicken, pork, and vegetables. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to create unique flavor combinations.

How do I prevent Mandu Korean Dumplings from sticking together?

To prevent Mandu Korean Dumplings from sticking together, make sure to handle the dumpling wrappers gently and don't overfill the dumplings. You can also dust the dumplings with a little bit of cornstarch or flour to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I cook Mandu Korean Dumplings in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook Mandu Korean Dumplings in a slow cooker. Simply place the dumplings in the slow cooker and add some water or broth to the cooker. Cook the dumplings on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, or until they are cooked through and hot.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card