Mandu(Korean Dumplings)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: Korean

Delicate Korean dumplings filled with a savory mix of spinach, tofu, shrimp, and sesame, perfect for a quick, protein‑rich snack or starter.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lb. frozen spinach, chopped
  • 3/4 pkg. tofu, cut into pieces
  • 1 lb. fresh shrimp, devein and cut
  • 1.5 Tbsp. sesame oil
  • 1 tsp. dried onion soup
  • wonton wrappers

Instructions

  1. Squeeze excess water out of the chopped spinach.
  2. In a bowl, combine the spinach, tofu pieces, shrimp, sesame oil, and dried onion soup.
  3. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a tray.
  4. Using a spoon, place a small amount of the filling in the center of each wrapper.
  5. Dip your finger in water and wet the edges of the wrapper around the filling to seal, forming a triangle.
  6. Pinch the sides together to ensure the dumpling stays{closed}.
  7. Steam the dumplings for 8 to 10 minutes in a steamer or a pan sprayed with non‑stick cooking oil over boiling water.
  8. Cover the steamer to keep the steam circulating.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the filling mixture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the shrimp with additional tofu or even finely chopped mushrooms. Make sure not to overfill the wonton wrappers to prevent bursting during steaming. For a unique twist, try using the filling from Coconut Shrimp Wontons.

Serving Suggestions

Mandu can be enjoyed on their own or served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar. They pair beautifully with Shrimp Fried Rice for a complete meal. For a light touch, serve alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, place the dumplings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, steam frozen dumplings directly from the freezer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mandu(Korean Dumplings) contains roughly 315 calories, with 10g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1395mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).

315 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.4g 21% DV
Total Fat 13g 17% DV
Carbs 41.1g 15% DV
Fiber 4.3g 16% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1395.3mg 61% DV
Potassium 805.1mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 22mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 551.2mcg 61% DV
Vitamin C 33.3mg 37% DV
Calcium 170.6mg 13% DV
Iron 5.1mg 28% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Soy Shellfish Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just make sure to sauté it lightly to wilt and reduce the moisture before adding it to the filling mix. This will help achieve the right texture in your dumplings.

What can I use instead of wonton wrappers?

If you can't find wonton wrappers, you can use dumpling skins or even make your own dough using flour and water. Just ensure they are thin enough to allow for folding and sealing.

How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?

The dumplings are cooked when they become translucent and the filling is firm. If you're unsure, you can cut one open to check that the shrimp is fully cooked and not translucent anymore.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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