Irresistible Money Bag Dumplings for Festive Good Fortune

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the Lunar New Year approaches, I can t help but feel the buzz of celebration in the air. With its promise of new beginnings and prosperity, this season always inspires me to bring festive flavors into my kitchen. One tradition that truly stands out are Money Bag Dumplings. These delightful morsels aren t just visually captivating; they are bursting with umami goodness and symbolize wealth and abundance.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a unique appetizer for our family gatherings, and it quickly became a favorite that impresses both guests and loved ones. What makes these dumplings even more special? Their versatility! With a vegetarian filling option, they cater to everyone s taste buds while retaining the vibrant essence of tradition.

Join me in creating these golden treasures that lift your spirits and satisfy your appetite, making your next celebration something truly memorable. Let s get our steaming pots ready!

Why are Money Bag Dumplings a must-try?

Festive Symbolism: These dumplings are not only a treat for the taste buds but also represent wealth and prosperity, making them a perfect addition to your Lunar New Year celebrations.

Flavor Explosion: Expect a delightful burst of umami from the combination of shiitake mushrooms and savory sauces, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward and require basic cooking skills, so you can impress your family and friends without feeling overwhelmed.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer a vegetarian filling or a combination of vegetables, these dumplings can easily be customized to suit every palate.

Perfect Party Pleaser: Their charming presentation and rich taste make them an instant hit at any gathering, certain to get conversation flowing!

Don t forget to serve them with a tasty dip! For more ideas on elevating your dipping sauces, check out my post on easy homemade dipping sauces.

Money Bag Dumplings Ingredients

For the Filling

• Dried Shiitake Mushrooms Adds earthy umami flavor; soak overnight or in hot water for rehydration.
• Ginger (minced) Provides a warm spice note; fresh ginger is preferred for the best flavor.
• Carrot (finely diced) Adds sweetness and color; substitute with bell peppers if desired.
• Bamboo Shoots (finely diced) Contributes texture and mild flavor; can be replaced with water chestnuts for added crunch.
• Vegetable Oil For sautéing the filling; any neutral oil can be used.
• Shaoxing Wine Enhances flavor depth; can substitute with dry sherry if unavailable.
• Light Soy Sauce Provides saltiness and umami depth; use tamari or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetarian Oyster Sauce Adds sweetness and depth; use regular oyster sauce if not vegetarian.
• Scallions (mostly green parts, finely chopped) Offers freshness and color; substitute with chives if preferred.
• Cilantro Stems Serve as ties for dumplings, adding flavor; young scallions or chives can be used as alternatives.

For the Wrappers

• Hong-Kong-Style Yellow Dumpling Wrappers Forms the outside; alternatives include tofu skins or napa cabbage leaves.

Embrace the joys of cooking with these Money Bag Dumplings, and let each bite symbolize prosperity and good fortune at your celebrations!

How to Make Money Bag Dumplings

1. Rehydrate the dried shiitake mushrooms by soaking them overnight or in hot water until soft. Once rehydrated, squeeze out the excess water and finely dice the mushrooms for even distribution in the filling.

2. Sauté ginger and finely diced carrots in a wok over medium-low heat for about 1 minute. This will enhance their flavors and add a warm, inviting aroma.

3. Add the diced shiitake mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the wok. Stir-fry them on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until everything is tender and fragrant, creating a delightful base for your filling.

4. Incorporate Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce into the mixture. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has evaporated. Stir in scallions and let the filling cool completely.

5. Blanch the cilantro stems quickly in boiling water, then shock them in cold water to keep their vibrant color. Keep your dumpling wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.

6. Roll each dumpling wrapper to about 4 inches in diameter. Place 1 tablespoon of the cooled filling in the center, pinch to form a bag, and then tie with a cilantro stem to secure.

7. Arrange the dumplings in a lined bamboo steamer. Steam for 3 minutes until they re cooked through (15 minutes if using tofu or napa wrappers) and ready to serve.

Optional: Serve hot with soy sauce or chili oil for an extra flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Money Bag Dumplings are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a taste of celebration without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. To maintain their quality, ensure the dumplings are covered with a damp towel to prevent drying. When ready to enjoy, simply steam them straight from the fridge for about 3 minutes (15 minutes for tofu or napa wrappers), and relish every bite of flavor-packed goodness. Save time and savor the taste of these festive delights!

What to Serve with Money Bag Dumplings?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the savory, festive essence of these dumplings.

• Spicy Soy Dipping Sauce: A splash of heat enhances the rich umami flavors of the dumplings, adding a zesty kick to each bite.

• Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crunchy and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of the dumplings with a cool, tangy contrast.

• Steamed Bok Choy: Lightly seasoned bok choy provides a crisp and nutritious side, making your meal feel complete and wholesome.

• Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice serves as a perfect base to absorb any leftover dipping sauce, creating a comforting, satisfying spread.

• Chili Oil Drizzle: Just a drizzle adds depth and a touch of spice, making the experience even more tantalizing for those who love zest.

• Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles create a delightful second course that harmonizes with the overall Asian-inspired theme of your meal.

• Lychee or Mango Sorbet: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a light sorbet, refreshing and perfect after savory bites.

The combinations are endless, making each gathering unique and memorable!

How to Store and Freeze Money Bag Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftover Money Bag Dumplings in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Steaming them again will refresh their texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Steam frozen dumplings directly from the freezer for about 8-10 minutes, ensuring they are heated through and tender.

Thawing: If thawing, leave them in the fridge overnight before steaming for best results.

Expert Tips for Money Bag Dumplings

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and high-quality shiitake mushrooms to ensure a rich umami flavor in your Money Bag Dumplings.

• Moisture Control: Avoid excess moisture by keeping cooked filling cool and covering wrappers with a damp towel before assembling. This prevents breakage.

• Steaming Method: A bamboo steamer gives the best results; it allows steam to circulate evenly. Avoid using glass or metal steamers, which can create soggy dumplings.

• Assembly Timing: Assemble and steam your dumplings right after making them for optimal texture. If not eager to steam immediately, refrigerate the assembly carefully.

• Batch Adjustments: If making a large batch, remember to adjust both your ingredient quantities and steaming times accordingly to maintain quality.

Money Bag Dumpling Variations

Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to create your perfect version of these delightful dumplings!

• Vegetarian Filling: Substitute traditional meat fillings with a mixture of sautéed vegetables for a plant-based twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped chili peppers or a splash of sriracha to the filling for those who enjoy a spicy flavor profile. This will elevate the heat and excitement in every bite.

• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or Thai basil into the vegetable filling for a refreshing aroma that will surprise and delight your guests.

• Nutty Addition: Stir in some finely chopped water chestnuts or toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and texture, creating a more interesting mouthfeel.

• Sweet Surprise: Include a touch of sugar or a sprinkle of chopped sweet corn for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.

• Savory Spam: For a non-vegetarian option, mix in diced char siu (Chinese BBQ pork) or shrimp with the vegetables to add a delicious umami depth.

• Wrapper Wonders: Experiment with different wrappers, like rice paper or even homemade dough, to discover a new texture that adds to your dumpling experience.

• Dipping Sauce Delights: Create diverse dipping sauces, from a spicy chili oil to a tangy soy-vinegar blend, to complement your dumplings and keep the flavor adventure alive!

Embrace your culinary creativity, and let these variations guide you in making Money Bag Dumplings uniquely yours!

Money Bag Dumplings Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select dried shiitake mushrooms?
Absolutely! Look for mushrooms that are firm and free of dark spots or sour odors. Quality mushrooms should be dry and have a rich, earthy fragrance. If you find ones with dark spots all over, they may be past their prime, so it s best to skip those.

How should I store leftover Money Bag Dumplings?
For sure! Store your leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you re ready to enjoy them again, simply re-steam them to refresh their soft and tender texture.

Can Money Bag Dumplings be frozen?
Yes, indeed! To freeze uncooked dumplings, lay them out on a baking sheet, making sure they re not touching each other, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to reheat frozen Money Bag Dumplings?
Absolutely! Steam the frozen dumplings directly from the freezer for about 8-10 minutes. There s no need to thaw them first; steaming will ensure they heat through evenly and maintain their delightful texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Money Bag Dumplings?
Very! These dumplings can cater to various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and substitute the wrappers with gluten-free alternatives like cabbage leaves. Always check the labels of sauces to ensure they don t contain allergens that you might need to avoid.

How do I prevent my dumplings from breaking during assembly?
Certainly! Keeping your wrappers covered with a damp towel while you work prevents them from drying out, which can lead to cracking. Additionally, make sure your filling has cooled completely before assembling, as hot filling can make the wrappers soggy and more prone to breakage.