Where have you been all your life if you’ve never eaten a dumpling before? If you’re genuinely Asian or a fan of Asian cuisine, then you’ll love dumplings. These variant of dumplings, in particular, are Korean Fried Vegetable Dumplings.
For those that have tried the dish before, they would agree that this dish is unique and unforgettable. Not only that, the dumplings are made only with vegetables, so it’s suitable for vegetarians as well.
What is Korean Fried Vegetable Dumpling
The name kind of says it all – it’s a dumpling with only vegetable fillings and with a Korean twist, of course. The Korean vegetable dumpling, or known as Yachae Mandu to Korean locals, is made using popular Korean vegetables like tofu, Napa cabbage and sweet potatoes. Like most Asian cuisine, this dish uses sesame oil and soy sauce to bind the ingredients together. Instead of steaming, the dumplings are pan-fried to make it crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
History of Korean Fried Vegetable Dumpling
Dumplings originated in China during the era of the Three Kingdoms in 225 AD. While most believe it was the Chinese who invented it, some claim that dumplings have Roman origins. While others believe that different cultures like the Africans also have their version of dumplings that dates as far back as Chinese dumplings.
Disregarding the debate, Koreans were first introduced to the dumplings by the Yuan Mongolians during the Goryeo Dynasty. The Mongolians introduced dumplings with beef or chicken fillings. But as the Goryeo Dynasty’s main religion was Buddhism, consumption of meat was discouraged. This led the Koreans to come up with another version of dumplings, known as mandu, using only vegetable fillings.
Some records show that Koreans were introduced to dumplings earlier than the Goryeo Dynasty by Middle Eastern travellers through the Silk Road. Some historians believed that the travellers brought their recipes with them through Central Asia, allowing different versions of dumplings to spread out across the continent.
Nutritional Content of Korean Fried Vegetable Dumpling
With the main ingredients of the dumpling being vegetables, the dumplings contain high fibre content that aids digestion.
However, because it is fried, it’s advisable to eat the fried dumplings only once in a while. In fact, according to history, the Koreans typically eat the vegetable dumplings to welcome the Lunar New Year and as a symbol of celebration.
Where to get Korean Fried Vegetable Dumpling in KL
Are you ready to feast on the marvellous Korean dumplings? Head down to Namoo Korean Dessert Café located in Solaris Dutamas and get your hands on their Korean Fried Vegetable Dumplings for only RM9. Their dumplings are filled with mushroom, tofu, cabbage and other spices. You can also pair the dish up with other Korean speciality dishes available in store.
Are you looking for something a little different? Scroll through the foodpanda app and choose from a variety of Korean dishes that are all available for delivery from restaurants close to you.