Lucky Money Bag Dumplings – A Fortunate Vegan Delight

Food has an incredible way of bringing people together, and some dishes go a step further, symbolizing joy, fortune, and prosperity. Lucky Money Bag Dumplings are one such treat. Wrapped delicately in Napa cabbage leaves, these dumplings resemble small sacks of wealth, making them a perfect addition to festive occasions or a unique way to treat yourself.

With a savory vegan filling and a silky, glossy sauce, these dumplings are a delightful combination of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether you’re celebrating the Lunar New Year or simply craving something special, this recipe will become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love Lucky Money Bag Dumplings

• Symbolic and Festive: These dumplings symbolize good luck and prosperity, making them a meaningful addition to celebrations.
• Completely Vegan: Using plant-based ingredients like vegan ground pork and vegan oyster sauce ensures that everyone can enjoy this dish.
• Easy to Make: While they look intricate, the process is straightforward and rewarding.
• Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with fresh vegetables and savory seasonings, these dumplings are as wholesome as they are delicious.

Ingredients for Lucky Money Bag Dumplings

Component	Ingredient	Quantity
For the Dumplings	Napa cabbage leaves (green part only)	20
	Cilantro stems (for tying)	20
	Vegan ground pork (such as OmniPork)	2 packages
	Celery stalk, finely chopped	1
	Fresh water chestnuts, finely chopped	5
	Carrot, finely chopped	2 tablespoons
	Light soy sauce	2 tablespoons
	Vegan oyster sauce	½ tablespoon (plus more for sauce)
	Salt	⅛ teaspoon
	Ginger, sliced	A few slices
	White pepper	A few shakes
	Sesame oil	Dash
For Frying	Cooking oil	As needed
For the Sauce	Vegan oyster sauce	To taste
	Water	To dilute
	Cornstarch slurry (1–2 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water)	Thin consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Napa Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch the Napa cabbage leaves for 10–15 seconds, just until softened.
3. Transfer the blanched leaves to an ice water bath to halt the cooking process.
4. Drain the leaves and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a bit of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add finely chopped celery, water chestnuts, and carrots, stirring for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the vegan ground pork, cooled vegetables, light soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce, white pepper, and ginger.
4. Add a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor and mix thoroughly.

3. Shape the Money Bag Dumplings

1. Lay a blanched Napa cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
2. Spoon a small amount of the filling onto the center of the leaf.
3. Gently gather the edges of the cabbage leaf upward, enclosing the filling and forming a pouch.
4. Tie the top of the dumpling with a cilantro stem, securing it like a little money bag.
5. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

4. Cook the Dumplings

1. Heat a bit of cooking oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the dumplings in the skillet, ensuring they are upright and not overcrowded.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden.
4. Add a few tablespoons of water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid.
5. Steam the dumplings for 3–5 minutes until tender and cooked through.

5. Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine vegan oyster sauce, water, and cornstarch slurry in a small bowl.
2. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until slightly thickened.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the dumplings on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with the prepared sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Lucky Money Bag Dumplings

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Napa cabbage leaves and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the dumplings.
• Tie Gently: Avoid tying the cilantro stems too tightly, as they may break.
• Adjust the Sauce: Add more or less water to the sauce for your desired consistency.
• Avoid Overfilling: Use just enough filling to shape the dumplings easily without tearing the cabbage leaves.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~180
Protein	~6g
Fat	~10g
Carbohydrates	~12g
Fiber	~3g
Sodium	~400mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Pair with a light soup or spring rolls for a complete starter.
• In a Main Course: Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal.
• As Part of a Party Spread: Include these dumplings in a dim sum platter with dumplings, buns, and dipping sauces.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Steam or fry directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.
• Reheating: Warm cooked dumplings in a steamer or skillet with a splash of water.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different green for wrapping?

Yes, you can use Swiss chard or collard greens, but blanch them to soften before wrapping.

2. Can I bake these dumplings?

While traditionally pan-fried, you can bake them at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, though they may lack the crispy bottom.

3. What if I can’t find vegan ground pork?

Try using crumbled firm tofu, mashed chickpeas, or another plant-based meat alternative.

4. How can I make the dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and vegan oyster sauce to keep the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

5. Can I make these dumplings ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the dumplings a day in advance and refrigerate them. Cook just before serving.

6. How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?

Avoid over-blanching and handle the leaves gently when wrapping.

Conclusion

Lucky Money Bag Dumplings – A Fortunate Vegan Delight is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, creativity, and tradition. With their elegant appearance, rich taste, and meaningful symbolism, these dumplings are perfect for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself.

So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You’ll not only create a stunning dish but also invite a little bit of good fortune to your table.

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