What To Serve With Dumplings? 20 BEST Side Dishes

As a food blogger and a lover of dumplings, I'm always on the hunt for the perfect side dishes to pair with these delicious pockets of goodness. Whether you're a fan of Chinese, Korean, or any other type of dumplings, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

In this post, you will find the 20 best side dishes to serve with dumplings.

From soups to salads and everything in between, these sides are sure to delight your taste buds and make your meal even more satisfying.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with dumplings are chicken noodle soup, beef and broccoli, ramen, bok choy, egg roll in a bowl, orange chicken, Chinese curry sauce, fried rice, hot and sour soup, kung pao chicken, cucumber salad, bao buns, stir-fried vegetables, sesame noodles, spring rolls, and crispy tofu.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Chicken Noodle Soup

A warm and comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup is a classic choice to serve with dumplings. The rich, flavorful broth and tender noodles make it the perfect complement to the succulent dumplings. Plus, it's a great way to turn your dumpling appetizer into a full, satisfying meal.

2. Beef and Broccoli

Pair your dumplings with beef and broccoli for a well-rounded, protein-packed meal. The savory, tender beef and the crisp, fresh broccoli make an excellent duo, complementing the flavors and textures of the dumplings.

3. Ramen

Ramen is a delicious, brothy noodle dish that goes amazingly well with dumplings. Choose from a variety of flavorful broths, such as miso or tonkotsu, and enjoy the combination of the slurp-worthy noodles and the juicy dumplings.

4. Bok Choy

For a simple yet tasty side dish, try some lightly sautéed bok choy. This leafy green vegetable has a mild flavor and a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft and succulent dumplings.

5. Egg Roll in a Bowl

An egg roll in a bowl is a fantastic side dish to serve with dumplings. This deconstructed version of the classic egg roll combines all the tasty ingredients, like cabbage, carrots, and ground meat, in a bowl for a low-carb, delicious alternative.

6. Orange Chicken

Pair your dumplings with some sweet and tangy orange chicken for a mouthwatering, Asian-inspired feast. The bold flavors of the orange sauce complement the savory dumplings, creating a perfect balance of tastes.

7. Chinese Curry Sauce

Chinese Curry Sauce is a fantastic addition to pair with dumplings. This sauce stands out with its rich, aromatic blend of spices, offering a warm and slightly spicy flavor. It's thicker and milder compared to Indian curries, making it a perfect dip or drizzle for your dumplings.

8. Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile and scrumptious side dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Add your favorite vegetables, proteins, and seasonings, and enjoy it alongside your dumplings for a filling and satisfying meal.

9. Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and sour soup is a zesty, flavorful option that pairs wonderfully with dumplings. Its bold flavors and spicy kick add excitement to your meal and make it a memorable dining experience.

10. Bao Buns

Bao Buns are soft, fluffy, and just the right kind of pillowy to pair with dumplings. They're like little clouds of happiness, soaking up any sauce or flavor from your main dish. What's great about Bao is their versatility - you can stuff them with anything from sweet to savory fillings. They're not just a side; they're an experience in themselves, making your dumpling meal even more exciting and diverse.

11. Crispy Tofu

Crispy Tofu is a must-try. Imagine biting into a golden, crunchy exterior to find a soft, warm interior. It's a delightful contrast to the softer texture of dumplings. You can season the tofu with soy sauce, garlic, or any spices you like, giving your meal an extra kick. It's a great way to add a protein-packed, vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy.

12. Pork Belly

Pork Belly is a luxurious side that brings richness to your meal. It's cooked slowly until it's meltingly tender, with a caramelized exterior that's full of flavor. This dish adds a hearty, meaty element to balance the lighter dumplings, creating a well-rounded meal. Its savory goodness makes it irresistible, especially when paired with a slightly spicy or tangy sauce.

13. Kimchi Pancake

A Kimchi Pancake is a fantastic way to add a zesty, tangy twist to your meal. The pancake's crispy edges and soft center, combined with the spicy, sour taste of kimchi, provide a delightful contrast to the more subtle flavors of dumplings. It's not just about taste - the vibrant colors and textures make your plate visually appealing too.

14. Chinese Walnuts

Chinese Walnuts are a unique and often overlooked side dish that can brilliantly complement dumplings. Unlike your typical walnuts, these are often candied or toasted, offering a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. This contrast of sweet and nutty flavors with the savory dumplings creates a balance on your palate. Plus, they're super easy to snack on while you're enjoying your meal, making them an excellent addition for adding a different texture to the mix.

15. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao chicken is a spicy, savory dish that complements dumplings perfectly. The tender chicken pieces, crunchy peanuts, and bold sauce create an enticing combination that will have you reaching for more.

16. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad is a great side dish to serve with dumplings. The cool, crisp cucumbers provide a nice contrast to the warm, soft dumplings, making for a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

17. Stir-Fried Vegetables

A simple stir-fry of your favorite vegetables is an excellent side dish to pair with dumplings. The colorful, crisp veggies add a nutritious and delicious element to your meal.

18. Sesame Noodles

Sesame noodles, tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce, are a fantastic side dish to accompany dumplings. The soft, chewy noodles and the savory sesame sauce make for a delightful combination that enhances your meal.

19. Spring Rolls

Crispy, light, and fresh, spring rolls are another excellent finger food to serve with dumplings. Filled with a variety of vegetables and sometimes shrimp or chicken, these delicate rolls make a fantastic addition to your meal, offering a delightful contrast in texture to the soft dumplings.

20. Spicy Green Beans

For a side dish with a bit of a kick, try some spicy green beans. Sautéed with garlic, chili flakes, and soy sauce, these flavorful green beans add a bit of heat and a whole lot of flavor to your dumpling meal.

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