14 Chinese Dumpling Recipes Stuffed With Delicious Seafood Goodness

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crafted Chinese dumpling—the delicate wrapper giving way to a burst of juicy, flavorful filling. Now, imagine that filling packed with the freshest seafood: plump shrimp, tender scallops, sweet crab, or flaky fish, all mingling with aromatic ginger, garlic, and herbs. Whether steamed, pan-fried, or boiled, seafood dumplings are a luxurious twist on a beloved classic, offering a taste of the ocean in every bite.

From the delicate har gow of Cantonese dim sum to crispy pan-fried dumplings with a golden lace skirt, this collection brings you 14 irresistible recipes that showcase seafood in all its glory. Picture silky shrimp and chive dumplings dipped in black vinegar, spicy Sichuan-style wontons swimming in chili oil, or delicate scallop and cilantro dumplings that melt in your mouth. We’ve included everything from street-food favorites to restaurant-worthy creations, so you can bring the vibrant flavors of Chinese seafood dumplings right to your kitchen.

But this isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about mastering the art of dumpling-making. We’ll guide you through folding techniques (no pleating frustration here!), share secrets for the juiciest fillings, and suggest dipping sauces that elevate each bite. Whether you’re hosting a dumpling party, craving a weekend cooking project, or simply want to impress your family with homemade dim sum, these seafood-stuffed treasures are sure to delight. So grab your bamboo steamer, dust off your rolling pin, and let’s dive into a world of dumplings that are as fun to make as they are to devour.

Crab and Cream Cheese Dumplings

Crab and cream cheese dumplings are a delightful treat that perfectly blend sweet crab meat with creamy cheese, creating a rich and savory flavor. These dumplings have a smooth texture and a comforting taste that makes them an instant favorite at any gathering.

The recipe is straightforward, making it a fun option for both seasoned cooks and beginners. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious dumplings and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 cup crab meat, cooked and shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Sesame oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Fill the Dumplings: Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture onto the center of the wrapper. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, fold the wrapper over, and pinch the edges to seal.
3. Cook the Dumplings: In a pan over medium heat, add sesame oil. Place the dumplings in the pan and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. You can also steam them if you prefer a softer dumpling.
4. Serve: Enjoy these delicious dumplings hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Lobster and Coriander Dumplings

Lobster and coriander dumplings are a delightful twist on traditional dumplings, offering a luxurious taste experience. The succulent lobster meat paired with fresh coriander creates a refreshing and aromatic filling that’s sure to impress. These dumplings are not only delicious but also relatively simple to make, making them a great choice for both experienced cooks and beginners.

The combination of the tender dumpling skin and the savory filling results in a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. They can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried for that perfect crispy bottom. Enjoy them with a dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 cup lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon scallions, finely chopped
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, coriander, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Wrap the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling into the center of a dumpling wrapper. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, fold the wrapper in half, and crimp the edges to seal tightly.
3. Cook the Dumplings: You can steam the dumplings for about 10 minutes, boil them for 4-5 minutes, or pan-fry them until golden brown. Serve hot.
4. Dipping Sauce: Pair the dumplings with a sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of chili oil for added flavor.

Fish and Watercress Dumplings

Fish and watercress dumplings are a delightful treat that combine the delicate flavor of fresh fish with the peppery kick of watercress. The result is a light and refreshing dumpling that’s perfect for any occasion. These dumplings are relatively simple to make and are a fantastic way to showcase seafood in your cooking.

The fish provides a subtle sweetness, while the watercress adds a nice crunch and depth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, these dumplings are sure to impress. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a soy or chili dipping sauce!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fish fillet, finely chopped
• 1 cup watercress, chopped
• 2 green onions, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped fish, watercress, green onions, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Fill the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it over, sealing the edges by pressing firmly.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings for about 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them for a crispy bottom.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Mixed Seafood Dumplings

Mixed seafood dumplings are a delightful treat that brings together a variety of fresh seafood in a tender, chewy wrapper. They boast a satisfying blend of flavors, with plump shrimp, savory scallops, and perhaps a hint of crab, making each bite a burst of ocean goodness. These dumplings are not only delicious but also quite straightforward to prepare, making them a perfect dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

The combination of seafood creates a unique taste that pairs well with a soy or vinegar dipping sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these dumplings are sure to impress your family and friends with their flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup scallops, chopped
• 1/2 cup crab meat
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Water, for sealing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine shrimp, scallops, crab meat, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt. Mix well.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the seafood mixture in the center. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal.
3. Steam the Dumplings: Place the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.
4. Serve: Transfer the dumplings to a serving plate and accompany with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prawn and Garlic Chive Dumplings

Prawn and garlic chive dumplings are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to your palate. These dumplings are filled with juicy prawns and fragrant garlic chives, creating a tasty combination that is both fresh and satisfying. The soft, delicate dumpling skin wraps around the filling, making each bite a pleasure.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners and perfect for a cozy cooking session. You can easily whip these up for a family dinner or impress guests at your next gathering. Serve them with a soy sauce dip for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup hot water
• 200g prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup garlic chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine flour and hot water. Mix until it forms a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a food processor, blend prawns, garlic chives, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until finely chopped but not pureed.
3. Form the Dumplings: Roll out the rested dough into thin circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold and pinch the edges to seal.
4. Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper for about 6-8 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve: Enjoy your dumplings warm with soy sauce for dipping!

Scallop and Spinach Dumplings

Scallop and spinach dumplings offer a delightful twist on traditional dumpling flavors. The sweet, tender scallops pair perfectly with the earthy spinach, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and rich. These dumplings are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a great option for a weeknight meal or a special gathering.

The combination of textures—from the soft dough to the succulent filling—will leave your taste buds satisfied. Plus, they can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, giving you versatility in cooking methods. Perfect for dipping in soy sauce or a spicy chili sauce, these dumplings are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 cup scallops, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Water, for sealing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped scallops, spinach, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt until well combined.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water and fold to seal, creating pleats as you pinch the edges together.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings in a bamboo steamer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through. Alternatively, you can boil them for 5-7 minutes.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot, served with soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.

Shrimp and Chive Dumplings

Shrimp and chive dumplings are a delightful treat that perfectly balance the subtle sweetness of shrimp with the fresh, grassy notes of chives. The chewy dumpling skin encases a juicy filling, making each bite a burst of flavor. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also simple to prepare, making them a great choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

These dumplings can be steamed or pan-fried for a crispy texture. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra kick. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine shrimp, chives, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the shrimp mixture in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over, and pinch to seal. Repeat until all the filling is used.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings for about 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked through. Alternatively, pan-fry them in a lightly oiled skillet until golden brown on the bottom, then add a bit of water and cover to steam until cooked through.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or a chili oil.

Sea Bass and Ginger Dumplings

Sea Bass and Ginger Dumplings are a delightful treat that blends the delicate flavors of fresh sea bass with the warm, aromatic notes of ginger. These dumplings are easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends. The combination of tender fish and fragrant ginger creates a tasty bite that will leave everyone wanting more.

The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible even for novice cooks. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch that’s not only satisfying but also impressively flavorful. Enjoy them steamed or pan-fried for a crispy finish!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh sea bass, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying (if pan-frying)
• Water for steaming

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the chopped sea bass, grated ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Combine until well blended.
2. Fill the Dumplings: Place a dumpling wrapper in the palm of your hand. Add about a teaspoon of the filling to the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling, and pinch to seal tightly.
3. Steam or Fry: To steam, place the dumplings in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 8-10 minutes until cooked through. For pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add a few tablespoons of water to the pan, cover, and steam for another 5 minutes.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot, with your favorite dipping sauce!

Octopus and Cilantro Dumplings

Octopus and cilantro dumplings bring a unique spin to traditional dumplings. The tender octopus meat pairs wonderfully with the fresh, zesty notes of cilantro, creating a delightful fusion of flavors. These dumplings are light yet satisfying, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish.

Making octopus dumplings is easier than you might think! With a bit of preparation, you can impress your family and friends with these delicious bites. They are sure to bring excitement to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound octopus, cleaned and chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped octopus, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place about a tablespoon of filling in the center. Brush the edges with beaten egg and fold the wrapper over, sealing it tightly. Crimp the edges to ensure they are fully sealed.
3. Cook the Dumplings: You can steam, boil, or pan-fry the dumplings. For steaming, place them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 8-10 minutes. If pan-frying, heat some oil in a skillet, add the dumplings, and cook until golden brown on one side, then add a little water and cover to steam until cooked through.
4. Serve: Enjoy these dumplings hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Salmon and Dill Dumplings

Salmon and dill dumplings are a delicious twist on traditional dumplings, delivering a fresh and savory flavor that’s perfect for any seafood lover. With a flaky exterior and a fragrant filling, these dumplings are simple to make and are sure to impress anyone you serve them to.

The combination of tender salmon and aromatic dill creates a delightful filling that’s both light and satisfying. These dumplings can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, making them versatile for any occasion — whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 30 dumpling wrappers
• Water, for sealing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped salmon, dill, green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the salmon mixture in the center. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Repeat until all the wrappers are filled.
3. Cook the Dumplings: You can either steam the dumplings for about 10-12 minutes or boil them in a pot of water until they float to the surface, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot, with a side of soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Clam and Basil Dumplings

Clam and basil dumplings offer a fresh and savory twist to your dumpling game. The combination of sweet clams and aromatic basil creates a delightful filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. They are surprisingly simple to make, making them a perfect choice for a casual dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.

These dumplings are not only delicious but also a great way to showcase the freshness of seafood. The subtle sweetness of the clams pairs beautifully with the fragrant basil, making these dumplings a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a dipping sauce, and they will soon become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh clams, cleaned and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine chopped clams, basil, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the clam mixture in the center. Brush the edges with beaten egg, fold over the wrapper, and pinch to seal. Repeat until all the filling is used.
3. Cook the Dumplings: You can steam, pan-fry, or boil the dumplings. For steaming, place them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper for about 6-8 minutes until cooked through.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.

Sardine and Sesame Dumplings

Sardine and sesame dumplings are a delightful treat that combines rich, savory flavors with a satisfying texture. The unique taste of sardines pairs beautifully with sesame, creating a filling that is both hearty and delicious. These dumplings are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with friends and family.

With a simple preparation process, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are a crowd-pleaser that will impress anyone who tries them. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 1 cup sardines, drained and mashed
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Water, for sealing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sardines, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, green onions, and sesame seeds. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a teaspoon of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper in half, and pinch to seal. You can also pleat the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they float to the surface. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them until golden brown on both sides.
4. Serve: Remove the dumplings and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

Tuna and Avocado Dumplings

Tuna and avocado dumplings are a refreshing twist on traditional dumplings. These delightful bites combine the rich, buttery flavor of avocado with juicy tuna, creating a light yet satisfying dish. They’re perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer at gatherings.

Making these dumplings is quite simple, even for beginners. With just a few ingredients and some folding skills, you can whip up a batch in no time. The combination of textures makes each bite a joy, with the creamy avocado complementing the tender tuna.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sushi-grade tuna, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 package dumpling wrappers
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the diced tuna, mashed avocado, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice until well combined.
2. Assemble the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold, and pinch to seal.
3. Cook the Dumplings: Steam the dumplings for about 6-8 minutes or until the wrappers become translucent. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them for a crispy texture.
4. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Mackerel and Garlic Dumplings

These Mackerel and Garlic Dumplings are a delightful twist on traditional dumplings, combining the rich flavor of mackerel with the aromatic punch of garlic. They are easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party. The savory filling wrapped in tender dumpling skin creates a satisfying bite that is both hearty and flavorful.

The bright taste of garlic complements the mackerel wonderfully, making each dumpling a burst of umami goodness. Serve them with a soy dipping sauce or a spiced vinegar for an extra kick. Whether you’re a dumpling novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe will have you creating delicious bites in no time!

Ingredients

• 200g fresh mackerel, skin removed and boned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 30 dumpling wrappers
• Water, for sealing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the mackerel, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Fill the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling, and seal by pinching the edges together.
3. Cook the Dumplings: In a steamer, arrange the dumplings and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them for a crispy bottom, adding a splash of water to steam them briefly.
4. Serve: Enjoy the dumplings hot with your choice of dipping sauce!

Final Thoughts
Seafood dumplings are a celebration of texture and taste—each one a little parcel of joy waiting to be unwrapped. With these 14 recipes, you’ll have everything you need to explore the rich diversity of Chinese dumplings, from the subtle elegance of steamed varieties to the bold crunch of pan-fried delights. Whether you stick to a classic shrimp filling or venture into more adventurous combinations, one thing’s for sure: once you start making these at home, takeout just won’t compare. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends to join in the folding fun, and get ready to savor the delicious seafood goodness inside every dumpling.