Frozen Asian Dumplings: A Guide to Quick, Flavourful Meals

On a busy weeknight, finding the time to cook a flavourful and authentic meal is often a challenge. Have a sudden craving for Asian flavours? A lack of time often gets the better of our good intentions. This is where frozen Asian dumplings emerge as the ideal solution, perfectly blending convenience and culinary delight.

This guide is here to help you navigate the vast world of frozen dim sum available online. Follow our advice to find the products that suit your tastes and discover our selection of the best options for a quick Asian meal, without ever sacrificing on flavour.

Buyer's Guide: 3 Criteria for Choosing Your Dumplings Online

To make the right choice, a few simple but essential criteria should be considered.

1. Dumpling Type and Filling

The term "Asian dumpling" actually covers an immense variety of bites. Here's a quick glossary to help you out:

• Gyoza: Originating from Japan, these thin-skinned dumplings are typically pan-fried on one side for a crispy base, then steamed. Prawn gyoza is a reliable choice.
• Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi): These can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. The most classic filling is the essential pairing of Chinese pork dumplings and chives.
• Steamed Asian Dumplings (Dim Sum): This Cantonese term refers to a wide range of small bites, including star dumplings like Ha Kao (with prawns) or Siu Mai.

The filling is the soul of the dumpling. A quick look at the percentage of premium ingredients (meat, prawns) is often the best indicator of the filling's quality.

2. Recommended Cooking Methods

Convenience is one of the key benefits of frozen Asian specialities. Take a look at the cooking instructions on the packaging. Most dumplings can be prepared in one of three ways:

• Steamed: For a melt-in-your-mouth, ultra-soft texture.
• Pan-fried: Ideal for gyoza, this method offers an addictive textural contrast with a golden, crispy base.
• Boiled: A quick method that yields tender dumplings, perfect for adding to a broth.

Choose a product with a cooking method that suits your equipment and the time you have available.

3. Composition and Nutritional Information

A simple glance at the ingredients list tells you a lot about the product's quality. Pay attention to the proportion of meat or shellfish, as well as the presence of potential allergens, which must be clearly indicated (wheat, soy, crustaceans, sesame, etc.). This allows you to buy your dumplings online with complete peace of mind.

Our Selection of Frozen Asian Dumplings

We have selected a few gems for you, chosen for the quality of their ingredients and their authentic taste.

KUNGFU Juicy Bao Pork & Prawn 300g

Why it stands out: This product is inspired by the famous Xiao Long Bao, known for the flavourful broth that is released upon tasting. The filling combines pork (≥23%), real prawn pieces, and a pork and chicken bone broth for an explosion of umami flavour.

Highlights:

• A juicy filling that releases a savoury broth.
• The textural combination of minced pork and prawn pieces.
• Ready to steam in just 8 to 10 minutes.

Who is it for?: For dim sum lovers who want to recreate the restaurant experience at home, with dumplings that are as rich as they are surprising.

AJINOMOTO Prawn Gyoza 30 pieces 600g

Why it stands out: Ajinomoto is a go-to brand in the world of frozen Asian food, and these gyoza do not disappoint. They contain 21% peeled prawns (Litopenaeus vannamei) and an assortment of vegetables (cabbage, carrots). Their greatest asset: unbeatable versatility.

Highlights:

• A distinct seafood flavour thanks to a high prawn content.
• Ultra-versatile: can be pan-fried, boiled, or steamed.
• Generous 600g size (30 pieces), perfect for large family meals or drinks with friends.

Who is it for?: For fans of prawn gyoza who love the contrast between a crispy base and a delicate filling. A reliable choice for an appetiser or a main course.

Northeast Dumpling King Pork, Chive & Shrimp Dumplings 420g

Why it stands out: These dumplings transport us to northeastern China with their authentic and generous flavours. They don't skimp on the filling here: 35% pork and 15% prawns, all enhanced by the intense aroma of Chinese chives. Their slightly thicker dough holds up perfectly to all cooking methods.

Highlights:

• The timeless winning trio: pork, prawn, and chive.
• An ultra-generous filling with a high proportion of meat and shellfish.
• An authentic taste reminiscent of homemade dumplings.

Who is it for?: For purists seeking the comforting, traditional taste of Chinese pork-prawn dumplings, with a rich and fragrant filling.

Looking for other flavour combinations?

The pork-prawn duo is a great classic, but the adventure doesn't stop there. From chicken and beef to 100% vegetarian dumplings... Explore all the possibilities for more variety.

? Discover our full range of dumplings and steamed bites

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do you cook frozen Asian dumplings without them sticking?

The anti-sticking trick depends on the cooking method:

• Boiling: Drop them into a large pot of boiling water and stir gently at the beginning of cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
• Steaming: Place them on a sheet of baking paper or, for a professional touch, on a cabbage leaf in your steamer basket.
• Pan-frying: Use a well-oiled non-stick pan.

2. What is the difference between a gyoza and a classic Chinese dumpling?

The differences mainly lie in their shape, the thickness of their dough, and their favourite cooking method. The Japanese gyoza has a half-moon shape and a very thin skin. It is traditionally pan-fried to get a crispy side, with the rest being steamed. The Chinese dumpling (jiaozi) has a slightly thicker skin and comes in several shapes. It is most often boiled or fully steamed.

3. Can you buy quality frozen Asian dumplings online?

Absolutely! You can find excellent frozen Asian dumplings online today. The secret? Favour sites that are fully transparent: a complete list of ingredients, the percentage of premium ingredients (meat, shellfish...), nutritional values, and clear cooking instructions. This guarantees you can make an informed purchase, just as if you were reading the label in the aisle.