The Best Frozen Dumplings: Our 2026 Recommendations

Finding high-quality frozen dumplings can be a challenge. You hope for an authentic taste experience, but sometimes end up with a product that's more wrapper than filling or has an indistinct flavour. The goal is to find a quick, delicious meal or snack that rivals what you'd get in a restaurant. This guide will help you make an informed choice based on product features and specifications.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look For in Frozen Dumplings

To avoid a disappointing purchase, it's helpful to know what to look for. The following criteria are based on information you can find on the packaging and in product descriptions.

Types of Dumplings: From Gyoza to Xiao Long Bao

The term 'dumpling' is an umbrella term. The specific type determines the flavour, texture, and cooking method. Some popular varieties include:

• Gyoza: Japanese dumplings, often filled with pork or chicken and vegetables. They are typically pan-fried and then steamed, resulting in a crispy bottom and a soft top. Frozen gyoza is a highly sought-after option.
• Har Kau (Har Gow): A classic from Cantonese dim sum. This dumpling has a translucent, slightly chewy wrapper made from wheat starch and is filled with whole or chopped prawns.
• Siu Mai: Another dim sum favourite. This open-topped, cylindrical dumpling is usually filled with pork, prawns, or a combination of both.
• Xiao Long Bao: Soup dumplings. These are filled with meat and a broth that melts during steaming, creating a burst of soup in your mouth.

Ingredients and Filling

The quality of a dumpling lives or dies by its filling. Check the ingredients list for the following points:

• Meat or Prawn Percentage: A higher percentage often indicates a richer flavour and better texture. Brands usually state this prominently.
• Wrapper Type: For an authentic har kau, look for a wrapper made from wheat starch. For most other types, like gyoza or siu mai, wheat flour is used.
• Additives: Note the presence of flavour enhancers like E621 (monosodium glutamate). This is not an indicator of poor quality, but a deliberate choice by the manufacturer to create an umami flavour.

Cooking Method

The most common method for steaming dumplings is with a bamboo steamer or a steamer insert for a pot. For gyoza, the pan-fry method (frying and then steaming in the same pan) is popular. The recommended cooking method is always on the packaging and is essential for achieving the best results.

Our Top Picks for 2026

Below is a selection of frozen dumplings, highlighted for their specifications and composition.

1. delico Dim Sum Assortment 360g

• Why We Chose It: This assortment offers four different types of Cantonese dim sum in one package: Har Kau (prawn), Beef Siu Mai, Pork Siu Mai, and Xiao Long Bao (soup dumpling). It's an all-in-one solution for those who want variety or wish to try different types without buying multiple packs.
• Advantages: The fillings have a high meat or prawn content: 36% prawn in the Har Kau, 48% beef in the Beef Siu Mai, 55% pork in the Pork Siu Mai, and 30% pork in the Xiao Long Bao. The recipe follows traditional methods, including the use of a wheat starch wrapper for the Har Kau.
• Who It's For: Ideal for a dim sum night at home, for sharing, or for anyone looking to recreate a restaurant experience with a variety of frozen Asian appetisers.

2. BIBIGO Gyoza Chicken & 5 Vegetables 30 PCS 600g

• Why We Chose It: Bibigo gyoza is a well-known brand specialising in Korean food. This variety combines chicken with a mix of five vegetables, including cabbage and onion. The large 600g pack (30 pieces) offers excellent value for money.
• Advantages: The filling consists of 26% chicken and a substantial amount of vegetables (21% cabbage, 11% onion), ensuring a balanced flavour. These gyoza are versatile and can be pan-fried, steamed, or used in soup.
• Who It's For: Suitable for families or anyone who eats gyoza regularly and wants to keep a stock at home. A great choice for fans of Japanese/Korean cuisine looking for a quick and filling meal option.

3. Ben's Crystal Shrimp Dumplings - 800 g

• Why We Chose It: This is an 800g bulk pack (32 pieces) aimed specifically at fans of har kau (crystal shrimp dumplings). The product focuses on a single type of dumpling, delivering it in a large quantity.
• Advantages: The filling contains 17.2% shrimp, supplemented with fish and vegetables like yam bean and bamboo shoots for texture. The cooking instructions are straightforward: steam for 7 minutes at 96°C or microwave for 3-4 minutes at 650W, straight from the freezer.
• Who It's For: Perfect for true fans of shrimp dumplings who like to stock up. It's also practical for parties or gatherings where you want to serve a larger quantity of a single type of appetiser.

Not Dumplings, But Craving a Sweet Finish?

After a savoury meal of dumplings or other Asian appetisers, a sweet dessert can be the perfect finish. While dumplings are the star of the show, it's sometimes nice to cleanse the palate with something sweet. Consider Asian-inspired pastries like mochi, spekkoek, or light cheesecakes.

Explore our range of cakes and pastries for a fitting sweet end to your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I steam frozen dumplings? You don't need special equipment to steam frozen dumplings. A pot with a lid and a steamer insert or a metal colander will suffice.

1. Bring a shallow layer of water to a boil in the pot.
2. Place the steamer insert over the water. Ensure the water does not touch the dumplings. You can line the insert with a piece of baking paper or a cabbage leaf to prevent sticking.
3. Place the frozen dumplings in the insert, leaving some space between them.
4. Cover the pot with the lid and steam for the time indicated on the packaging (usually 7-12 minutes).

2. What is the difference between gyoza and other dumplings? Gyoza are specifically Japanese dumplings. The main difference lies in the wrapper and the cooking method. Gyoza wrappers are often thinner. The most popular cooking method is to pan-fry them until the bottom is golden-brown and crispy, then add a little water and cover the pan to steam them through. Other dumplings, like har kau or siu mai, are typically only steamed.

3. Can I buy frozen dumplings online and have them delivered? Yes, it is possible to buy dumplings online and have them delivered to your home chilled or frozen. Online stores that sell frozen goods use special packaging and delivery methods to ensure the products remain at the correct temperature (-18°C or lower) during transit. Always check the storage conditions upon receipt.

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer An objective, practical shopping guide focused on facts and product parameters, without the marketing hype.