Steamed Rice Paper Dumplings (Vegan & Gluten Free) Recipe
Introduction
These Steamed Rice Paper Dumplings are a delightful vegan and gluten-free treat. Packed with savory mushrooms, tofu, and fresh vegetables, they offer a light yet satisfying bite perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 7 chestnut mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 inch fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- 200g extra firm tofu, broken apart
- 1 carrot, finely chopped into cubes
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (gluten free)
- 1/2 teaspoon MSG
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 12 rice papers
Instructions
- Step 1: Place your frying pan on medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Add the chopped mushrooms, ginger, garlic, spring onions, tofu, carrot, light gluten free soy sauce, MSG, and sugar. Fry for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Step 2: Turn the heat off and set the pan aside.
- Step 3: Fill a large bowl with warm water and set aside.
- Step 4: Dunk one piece of rice paper into the warm water to fully wet it. Shake off excess water and place the rice paper flat onto a clean, dry chopping board.
- Step 5: Slice the rice paper in half.
- Step 6: Place a spoonful of the filling onto each half. When the rice paper feels sticky, fold it into a small parcel by bringing in each corner and sealing the edges. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Step 7: Cut parchment or baking paper into a circle the size of your steamer and poke small holes to allow steam to pass through. Place the baking paper into the steamer.
- Step 8: Arrange the dumplings on the baking paper, cover with the lid, and steam for 5 minutes.
- Step 9: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or chili oil and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the recipe entirely gluten-free.
- Add finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch.
- Substitute tofu with finely chopped tempeh or cooked lentils for a different texture.
- Try steaming dumplings in a bamboo steamer for added aroma and authenticity.
Storage
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently by steaming again for 3-4 minutes to maintain their soft texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the rice paper tough.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze these dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before steaming. Arrange them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Steam them directly from frozen for about 7-8 minutes.
What dipping sauces go well with these dumplings?
These dumplings pair well with soy sauce mixed with a little rice vinegar and chili flakes, sesame oil, or a spicy chili oil for added heat and flavor.
Print
Steamed Rice Paper Dumplings (Vegan & Gluten Free) Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 dumplings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Description
These Steamed Rice Paper Dumplings are a delicious vegan and gluten-free appetizer made with finely chopped chestnut mushrooms, ginger, garlic, spring onions, tofu, and carrots. The filling is seasoned with light gluten-free soy sauce, MSG, and a touch of sugar, wrapped in delicate rice papers, and steamed to perfection. Perfect served with your favorite dipping sauce or chili oil for a flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 7 chestnut mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 inch fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- 200g extra firm tofu, broken apart
- 1 carrot, finely chopped into cubes
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (gluten free)
- 1/2 teaspoon MSG
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Wraps
- 12 rice papers
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Place a frying pan on medium heat and drizzle with a little oil. Add chopped mushrooms, ginger, garlic, spring onions, tofu, carrot, light gluten-free soy sauce, MSG, and sugar. Fry for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to mix and cook evenly.
- Set the filling aside: Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. Let the filling cool slightly.
- Prepare warm water bowl: Fill a large bowl with warm water and set it near your workspace for dipping the rice papers.
- Soften the rice papers: Take one rice paper at a time, dunk it fully into the warm water until it becomes pliable, then shake off excess water and lay it flat on a clean, dry chopping board.
- Cut rice paper: Slice the softened rice paper in half to create two semicircles for easier handling and portioning.
- Fill and fold dumplings: Place a spoonful of the prepared filling onto each half of the rice paper. Once the rice paper becomes sticky, gently bring in each corner to form a small parcel and seal the edges tightly. Repeat this process until all filling is used.
- Prepare steamer: Cut a piece of parchment or baking paper into a circle matching your steamer basket size. Poke small holes in the paper to allow steam circulation. Place the paper inside the steamer.
- Steam the dumplings: Arrange the dumplings gently onto the parchment paper inside the steamer. Cover with the lid and steam the dumplings for 5 minutes until cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Remove dumplings carefully and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or chili oil. Enjoy your flavorful vegan and gluten-free meal!
Notes
- Use extra firm tofu to ensure the filling holds together well.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste for saltiness.
- MSG is optional and can be omitted based on dietary preference.
- If you don’t have a steamer, use a steaming rack inside a large pot with a lid.
- Dumplings are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: steamed dumplings, vegan dumplings, gluten free dumplings, rice paper dumplings, chestnut mushroom dumplings, tofu dumplings

