Trader Joe’s is known for its creative frozen foods, so when I spotted their Vegetable Dumplings (Dim Sum Style Wrapper Filled with Chives & Vegetables), I grabbed a pack right away.
I expected a traditional wheat flour wrapper, but I was surprised when I opened the package.
The dumplings looked much whiter than I had imagined, and after a closer look, I realized why.
Instead of a wheat-based wrapper, these use potato and tapioca starch, giving them a chewy, sticky texture.
Since I was starving, I chose the quickest cooking method—microwaving.
Let’s be real: when you’re hungry, convenience wins!
I didn’t feel like gathering extra pots and pans to steam them, so I popped them in the microwave and followed the simple instructions on the package.
Once they were ready, I was eager to dig in.
Here’s my honest review, including taste, texture, cooking tips, dipping sauce recommendations, and everything else you need to know.
How to Cook Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings
Trader Joe’s offers three easy ways to cook these dumplings:
- Microwave (Fastest Option) – Place them on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 2 minutes.
- Steaming (Best for Soft Texture) – Steam for 8–10 minutes until heated through.
- Pan-Frying (Best for a Crispy Bottom) – Add oil to a pan, cook until the bottom turns golden brown, then add a splash of water, cover, and steam for a few minutes.
Since I microwaved mine, they came out soft and chewy, which was expected with this type of wrapper.
If you prefer a firmer texture, steaming or pan-frying might be the better option.
Taste & Texture: What Stands Out?
Filling: Flavorful & Umami-Packed
The filling instantly stood out in the best way.
The mix of chives, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and cabbage created a bold umami flavor.
It tasted well-seasoned and satisfying, with the chives adding just the right amount of freshness.
Wrapper: Chewy & Slightly Thick
The dim sum-style wrapper looked beautiful, but it felt thicker than I expected, especially at the top where the dumplings were sealed.
Traditional dim sum wrappers are usually thinner and more delicate, but these had a noticeable chewiness at the top that didn’t add much flavor.
While the wrapper still worked well overall, I would have preferred a thinner, more balanced texture.
Aftertaste: Lingering & Strong
Although the dumplings tasted great initially, the filling left a strong aftertaste.
It wasn’t necessarily unpleasant, but it stuck around longer than I would have liked.
Nutritional Information for Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings
Each serving (about 5 dumplings) contains:
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 620mg
These dumplings are vegan-friendly and relatively low in fat, making them a decent plant-based snack.
However, they do contain a good amount of sodium, so it’s something to keep in mind if you’re watching your intake.
What to Serve with Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings
To enhance the flavor of these dumplings, pairing them with the right dipping sauce is essential.
Here are some recommendations:
Classic Soy Sauce
A simple light soy sauce can complement the dumplings without overpowering their flavor.
Light soy sauce adds saltiness and a subtle umami taste.
Soy Sauce with Sriracha
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mixing soy sauce with Sriracha creates a spicy and tangy dip that pairs wonderfully with the vegetable filling.
Custom Dipping Sauce
Creating a personalized dipping sauce can elevate your dumpling experience. Here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili oil or Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix well and serve alongside the dumplings.
This combination offers a balance of salty, sour, spicy, and aromatic flavors, enhancing each bite of the dumplings.
Not All Soy Sauces Are the Same!
If you want to learn more about different types of soy sauces and how they can change the flavor of your dishes, check out my full blog post Soy Sauce: Good vs Bad.
FAQ: What People Are Asking About Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings
1. Are Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings vegan?
Yes! These dumplings are completely plant-based, with a vegetable filling and a starch-based wrapper.
2. Are Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings gluten-free?
No, they are not gluten-free. The dumplings contain wheat starch, and the filling contains soy sauce made from wheat, so they are not suitable for those avoiding gluten.
3. What’s the best way to cook them?
For the best texture, steaming or pan-frying works best. Microwaving is the easiest option, but it makes the wrapper a bit stickier.
4. What sauce pairs well with these dumplings?
A mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil enhances their flavor perfectly. Adding garlic, green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil can make them even better.
5. How do these compare to other frozen dumplings?
They are not your normal dumplings but a different style, which is popular for dim sum. The texture of the wrapper is completely different than the more known type of dumplings. Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings are worth a try, but remember that they are not your typical dim sum flavor either.
6. Where can I buy Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings?
These dumplings are sold exclusively at Trader Joe’s and can be found in the frozen section near their other Asian-inspired foods.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings?
Overall, Trader Joe’s Vegetable Dumplings are a solid frozen option with a flavorful filling and an aesthetically pleasing look.
While the wrapper is slightly thicker than ideal and the aftertaste lingers, they still make for a convenient, plant-based dumpling fix.
If you love dumplings and want something quick and easy, these are worth trying, especially when paired with the right dipping sauce.
If you prefer a thinner, more traditional wrapper, you might want to check out other options.
Have you tried these dumplings? What’s your favorite dipping sauce? Let me know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more vegan-friendly finds at Trader Joe’s, subscribe to my blog for more reviews!
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