Why You’ll Love Kimchi Tofu Mandu Recipe
These dumplings are packed with bold, tangy, and umami-rich flavors thanks to the kimchi and sesame oil. They are easy to customize, whether you prefer them vegan or with egg, and can be cooked in multiple ways depending on your preference. The recipe is simple enough for beginners yet rewarding enough to impress guests. Plus, they can be made ahead and stored for later, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
20 dumpling wrappers (small size, 3.5 inches in diameter)
1 tablespoon vegetable or grapeseed oil
3-4 tablespoons water
6 ounces firm tofu, drained well and minced
4 ounces kimchi, finely chopped
1 large egg (omit for vegan recipe)
4 scallions, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon gochugaru
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Mix all the ingredients for the filling in a bowl and set aside.
- Transfer the filling to a skillet and cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated. Return the filling to the bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean work surface.
- Hold one wrapper in your palm and scoop about 1 heaping tablespoon of filling into the center.
- Wet the edges with a little water and fold the wrapper, pinching the edges together to seal.
- Place the formed dumplings on a plate and repeat until all wrappers are used.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange dumplings in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Add 3 tablespoons of water and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a plate. Serve with dipping sauce.
- For steaming, line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.
- Place dumplings in the steamer with space between each one. Cover and steam for 7-8 minutes.
- Transfer to a plate and serve with your favorite Korean dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 dumplings and serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes
Variations
You can make this recipe vegan by omitting the egg or replacing it with a plant-based binder. Add glass noodles or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra texture. For a spicier version, increase the amount of gochugaru or add a bit of chili paste. You can also swap tofu for ground meat if you prefer a non-vegetarian filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry them again for a crispy texture or steam them until heated through. Dumplings can also be frozen before or after cooking. Reheat frozen dumplings directly from the freezer by steaming or pan-frying with a little extra water.
FAQs
Can I freeze these dumplings before cooking?
Yes, place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag for long-term storage.
Do I have to cook the filling first?
Cooking the filling removes excess moisture and improves the texture and flavor.
What dipping sauce works best?
A simple mix of soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes pairs perfectly.
Can I bake these instead of frying or steaming?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Brush with oil and bake until golden.
What type of tofu should I use?
Firm tofu works best because it holds its shape and has less moisture.
How do I keep dumplings from sticking together?
Leave space between them and use parchment paper or cabbage leaves when steaming.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Why are my dumplings soggy?
Overcrowding the pan or not cooking off the filling moisture can cause sogginess.
Can I use store-bought kimchi?
Yes, store-bought kimchi works perfectly for this recipe.
How do I know when they are done cooking?
They should be golden brown on the outside and heated through on the inside.
Conclusion
Kimchi Tofu Mandu are a delicious and versatile dish that brings bold Korean flavors to your table. Whether you choose to pan-fry or steam them, these dumplings are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. With simple ingredients and flexible variations, they are a great addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
