Kanom Jeeb Thai Dumplings

Kanom jeeb is a favorite at our family gatherings thanks to its soft wrappers, juicy filling, and savory aroma that fills the kitchen. This Thai dumpling recipe makes it surprisingly simple to create authentic flavors at home and is guaranteed to impress your guests whether served as an appetizer or a satisfying snack.

I remember the first time I made these dumplings for my parents in a tiny apartment kitchen. The happiness on their faces made every bit of effort worthwhile and now it is a dish I often prepare whenever I want to share a little comfort with loved ones.

Ingredients

• Ground pork: brings juiciness and classic flavor to the filling aim for fresh pink pork with a little fat for best texture
• Egg: binds everything together and helps the filling stay moist
• Coriander roots: add authentic Thai fragrance search for fresh roots at Asian groceries or substitute with stems if needed
• Black peppercorns: offer gentle heat and depth freshly cracked is best for intensity
• Garlic: delivers sharp aroma and complex flavor firm bulbs mean freshest taste
• Carrots: add sweetness and color pick ones that are firm and bright orange
• Green onions: give freshness look for crisp green tops
• Dried shiitake mushrooms: bring earthiness soak until fully soft before chopping
• Golden mountain sauce: provides umami notes and saltiness opt for Thai label when possible
• White sugar: balances savory flavors use pure white for a clean finish
• Oyster sauce: richens the mixture with depth seek a reputable brand for best results
• Cornstarch: binds the filling for smooth texture ensure it is lump free
• Dumpling wrappers: form the tender dumpling skin fresh wrappers are easiest to work with
• Sesame oil: adds nutty aroma and silkiness pure toasted sesame works best
• Garlic oil: paints a savory sheen over the steamed dumplings
• Crispy fried garlic: for finishing pick golden brown for the best crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Aromatic Paste:

Use a mortar and pestle to pound the coriander roots black peppercorns and garlic into a rough paste. This creates the core aroma base for your dumplings and releases natural oils that are essential for depth of flavor.

Mix the Sauce:

In a medium mixing bowl stir together golden mountain sauce white sugar sesame oil and oyster sauce until the sugar dissolves completely. This step ensures the seasoning coats every bite of pork evenly and brings rich umami.

Process the Pork Filling:

Add your ground pork into a food processor along with the sauce mixture egg and cornstarch. Pulse briefly several times just until the mixture is smooth and sticky not runny. Overmixing can make the filling dense instead of light.

Combine with Vegetables and Aromatics:

Transfer the pork base into a large bowl and fold in your aromatic paste from step one as well as finely diced carrots chopped green onions and chopped mushrooms. Use your hands for thorough mixing to help incorporate all the textures evenly.

Shape the Dumplings:

Lay a dumpling wrapper over the curved back of a large spoon pressing gently to form a small bowl. Spoon just enough filling into the center to plump it up then dab the wrapper edges with water. Gather and pinch the edges up carefully still in the spoon to create the iconic crimped shape.

Steam the Dumplings:

Line steamer trays with parchment to prevent sticking. Arrange the shaped dumplings so they do not touch. Cover and steam over medium heat for ten minutes. Dumplings are cooked when the filling is firm and wrappers look translucent.

Finish and Serve:

Brush steamed dumplings lightly with garlic oil for shine then top with crispy fried garlic for extra aroma and crunch. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for the freshest texture and fullest flavor.

Pin

Coriander root is my personal secret to fragrant dumplings and reminds me of my grandmother’s traditional cooking. I love watching my family reach for seconds just to chase that complex aroma that makes these dumplings so special.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze prepare and shape the dumplings but do not steam. Freeze in a single layer until solid then transfer to bags. Steam straight from frozen adding just a couple extra minutes cooking time for fresh results every time.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground chicken or shrimp for pork if you prefer leaner or lighter flavors. For a vegetarian option replace meat with finely chopped mushrooms and firm tofu adjusting seasoning to taste. If you cannot find golden mountain sauce use light soy sauce plus a splash of fish sauce to keep the same depth.

Serving Suggestions

Offer these dumplings with a variety of dipping options such as tangy soy sauce sweet Thai chili sauce or homemade vinegar and sliced chili dressing. For a party platter mix in a few colorful steamed vegetables and provide small bamboo tongs for easy sharing.

A Taste of Thai Tradition

Kanom jeeb is rooted in the broader family of Asian dumplings but has a uniquely Thai touch thanks to coriander root and the signature savory-sweet flavor balance. These dumplings are a festive treat at celebrations and everyday markets symbolizing welcome and hospitality.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the key to flavorful kanom jeeb filling?

Crushing coriander roots, garlic, and black peppercorns releases their aroma and depth, blending beautifully with savory sauces mixed into the pork.

→ How do I keep the dumpling wrappers from sticking?

Line your steamer with parchment paper or brush with a thin layer of oil before placing the dumplings, ensuring easy removal once cooked.

→ Can I use other proteins or make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Try chicken, shrimp, or a blend of mixed vegetables and tofu for a delicious alternative to the classic pork filling.

→ What sauces pair best with kanom jeeb?

Soy sauce, Thai sweet chili, or a homemade dipping sauce featuring vinegar and sliced chili all complement the savory dumplings.

→ How do I achieve a smooth, tender filling texture?

Pulse the pork mixture in a food processor to a smooth consistency before adding vegetables and spices, creating a cohesive filling that steams evenly.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently steam to reheat, preserving their soft texture and flavor.