Savor Homemade Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil for Quick Meals

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s a certain joy that comes from crafting your own Prawn Dumplings in Spicy Red Oil, and I find myself reaching for this recipe time and again. The gentle sizzle of garlic mixing with ginger transports me to lively streets bustling with food vendors, where tantalizing aromas tease the senses. When I m in need of comfort and creativity in the kitchen, nothing hits the spot like these tender, juicy dumplings.

These delightful pockets are not just a feast for the palate; they re incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick dinner or a fun cooking session with loved ones. The spicy red oil sauce adds a vibrant kick that elevates every bite, ensuring that they ll soon become a favorite in your household. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you ll be enjoying a taste of homemade Asian cuisine that s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you re an experienced chef or a home cook looking to impress, let s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe.

Why Are Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil a Must-Try?

Delicious flavors combine in these dumplings, offering a perfect balance of tender prawns and zesty spices. Quick to prepare, they can be on your table in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. Crowd-pleaser status means they re sure to impress family and friends at gatherings. Freezing friendly allows you to make a batch ahead of time, so you can enjoy them whenever cravings strike. Versatile filling lets you swap ingredients to cater to various tastes, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish. Try them today, and you ll discover why these dumplings are bound to become your new go-to meal!

Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil Ingredients

Dive into the flavors of homemade Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil with this essential ingredient list.

• Gyoza Wrappers: Essential for encasing the dumpling filling; you can use store-bought wrappers or make your own for a personalized touch.
• Prawns (300g/10.5 oz): Provide the main protein; opt for peeled and deveined prawns for convenience and freshness.
• Water Chestnuts (5): Add a delightful crunch and texture; substitute with finely chopped celery if unavailable for a similar crispness.
• Spring Onions (3 tbsp): Enhance the flavor with freshness; remember to save some green parts for an attractive garnish.
• Coriander (1 tbsp): Brings a fresh aroma; parsley can be used as a substitute if you prefer a milder taste.
• Ginger (2 tbsp, finely grated): Adds warmth and depth of flavor; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• Garlic (1 clove): Enhances the overall flavor profile; use fresh garlic for the best results and aroma.
• Egg White (1): Acts as a binder to hold the filling together, ensuring a well-formed dumpling.
• Sea Salt (1 tsp): Enhances and balances the flavors of the filling; be cautious of the saltiness if you use soy sauce.
• Soy Sauce (3 tbsp): Essential for seasoning in the red oil, adding umami richness; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
• Chinese Chinkiang Black Vinegar (3 tbsp): Brings depth to the sauce; red wine vinegar is a suitable substitute if necessary.
• Chili Oil (2 tbsp): Delivers a spicy kick and complexity to the sauce; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Sugar ( ½ tsp): Balances the flavors in the sauce, ensuring a harmonious taste experience.
• Garlic (small clove, finely grated): Adds an extra layer of flavor for the red oil sauce and enhances overall taste.

How to Make Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil

1. Prepare the Filling: Finely chop the prawns until they reach a minced consistency. In a mixing bowl, combine them with chopped water chestnuts, spring onions, coriander, ginger, garlic, egg white, and salt until everything is evenly mixed and sticky.

2. Fill the Wrappers: Lay out the gyoza wrappers on your workspace. Place about a scant tablespoon of the filling in the center of each wrapper, moisten the edges with a bit of water, fold them over, and seal tightly. Ensuring no air pockets remain is key to a succulent dumpling!

3. Make the Red Oil: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and grated garlic until well combined. This vibrant sauce will give the dumplings that signature kick.

4. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the dumplings and cook for 5-6 minutes or until they float to the top and are fully cooked. Their tenderness will be a sign of readiness!

5. Serve: Transfer the dumplings onto a plate and generously drizzle with the spicy red oil sauce. Garnish with sliced spring onions for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Optional: Serve hot with a side of rice or a light salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil

• Minced Prawns: Ensure prawns are finely minced for a uniform filling texture. Use a food processor for convenience and consistency.

• Sealing Technique: Avoid air pockets by sealing the dumplings tightly. Moisten edges thoroughly; this will help prevent them from opening during cooking.

• Watch Cooking Time: Pay close attention to cooking time; overcooked dumplings can turn rubbery. They re done when they float and are tender.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili oil in the sauce. Start with less if you re new to spicy foods!

• Make Ahead: Prepare a large batch and freeze uncooked dumplings. They re perfect for quick meals using the Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil recipe, just boil from frozen!

Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these dumplings to suit your taste and dietary needs.

• Protein Swaps: Substitute prawns with ground chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile that still keeps the dumpling experience delightful.

• Vegetarian Option: Use a mix of mushrooms and diced vegetables instead of prawns for a hearty vegetarian filling that s packed with flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the chili oil in the red oil sauce for those who love a fiery punch, or try adding fresh chili slices for an extra heat boost.

• Herb Twist: Replace coriander with fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist that complements the filling beautifully.

• Flavor Booster: Mix in a teaspoon of sesame oil into the filling or the sauce for an added layer of rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

• Crunchy Texture: Add finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the filling for extra crunch in every bite.

• Noodle Dumplings: Instead of wrappers, use egg noodles for a unique take on dumplings that gives a delightful and chewy texture.

• Fruit Fusion: For a sweet surprise, add finely chopped apples or pears to the filling; their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spice.

Make Ahead Options

These Prawn Dumplings in Spicy Red Oil are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dumpling filling and seal the wrappers up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, these dumplings can also be frozen for up to 3 months just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you re ready to cook, simply boil the dumplings directly from the freezer for 7-8 minutes until they float, then serve with the vibrant red oil sauce. Enjoy the convenience of making this delicious dish ahead of time, saving you precious moments on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil

Fridge: Store cooked Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For uncooked dumplings, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen dumplings, steam or boil them directly from the freezer for 8-10 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the juicy filling and spicy sauce again!

Make-Ahead: Prepare dumplings in advance for quick meals. This way, you can savor homemade flavors whenever you like!

What to Serve with Prawn Dumplings in Spicy Red Oil?

These delicious dumplings deserve a delightful spread to accompany them on your dining table.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy and subtly fragrant, jasmine rice is a wonderful base that soaks up the spicy red oil with each tasty bite.

• Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast, the crisp cucumbers with a light vinegar dressing cleanse your palate and provide a crunchy texture.

• Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with a splash of soy sauce, this vibrant green leafy vegetable adds both nutrition and a mild flavor to the meal.

• Asian Slaw: Colorful, crunchy, and slightly tangy, a mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing offers a zesty crunch to balance the rich dumplings.

• Hot and Sour Soup: The contrasting flavors of this classic soup beautifully pair with the dumplings, enriching your meal with warmth and comfort.

• Chilled Green Tea: Light and refreshing, a chilled green tea complements the spiciness of the dumplings without overpowering their flavor.

• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat serves as a delightful end to your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the spicy notes of the dumplings.

With these pairings, you can create a meal that captivates not just the taste buds, but the whole dining experience!

Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil Recipe FAQs

What type of prawns should I use for the dumplings?
Absolutely! Use fresh, peeled, and deveined prawns for the best flavor and texture. For convenience, you can also use frozen prawns, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before processing.

How should I store the cooked Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil?
Once cooked, store your dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat them, simply place them in a pan with a splash of water, cover, and warm them over low heat gently to keep them moist.

Can I freeze the uncooked dumplings?
Very easily! To freeze uncooked Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don t touch. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What if the dumplings start to stick together when freezing?
If your dumplings stick together, you can lightly dust them with cornstarch before freezing. Alternatively, ensure they are well-separated on the baking sheet by freezing them individually before transferring to a bag. This helps prevent them from clumping together!

Are these dumplings suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Definitely not! If you or someone you are serving has a shellfish allergy, I recommend using an alternative filling such as ground chicken, turkey, or vegetables like mushrooms and finely chopped bell peppers to keep the dish delicious and safe.

How do I know when the dumplings are properly cooked?
Cook the dumplings in simmering water for about 5-6 minutes, until they float to the surface and are tender to the touch. The filling should be cooked through, and you can cut one open to check it should be juicy and piping hot! Enjoy your delicious Prawn Dumplings in Red Oil!