15 Best Spices for Dumplings: A Dumplings Seasoning Guide

As a lover of dumplings, I understand the importance of having the right spice blend to enhance the flavor of these delicious treats.

Whether you prefer your dumplings boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, the right seasoning can take them from ordinary to extraordinary.

In this article, I will share with you my top 15 favorite spices for dumplings that will elevate your dumpling game to the next level.

From traditional Chinese dumplings to Polish pierogies, each type of dumpling has its unique flavor profile that can be enhanced with the right spices.

Some spices add a warm, earthy flavor, while others add a spicy kick or a hint of sweetness.

Whether you prefer savory or sweet dumplings, there is a spice blend out there that will suit your taste buds.

In this guide, I will provide you with a variety of spice options to choose from, so you can find your perfect dumpling seasoning.

Top 15 Best Spices for Dumplings

Dumplings are a delicious and versatile dish, but they can be quite bland without the right spices.

To make sure your dumplings turn out flavorful and tasty, here is a list of the top 15 best spices for dumplings:

1. Cumin

Cumin is a popular spice in many cuisines around the world, and it adds a warm, earthy flavor to dumplings. It pairs well with meat fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

2. Ginger

Ginger adds a fresh, slightly spicy flavor to dumplings. It’s a common ingredient in Asian cuisine and pairs well with pork or chicken fillings. Ginger can be used fresh, grated, or in powder form.

3. Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor to dumplings without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. It adds a savory, slightly sweet flavor that complements meat fillings well.

4. Onion Powder

Onion powder adds a sweet, slightly pungent flavor to dumplings. It pairs well with meat and vegetable fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

5. Five Spice Powder

Five spice powder is a blend of five spices commonly used in Chinese cuisine: cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns. It adds a complex, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings and pairs well with pork or chicken fillings.

6. Sichuan Peppercorns

Sichuan peppercorns are a staple in Sichuan cuisine and add a numbing, slightly citrusy flavor to dumplings. They pair well with spicy meat fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

7. Star Anise

Star anise is a key ingredient in Chinese five spice powder and adds a sweet, licorice-like flavor to dumplings. It pairs well with pork or chicken fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

8. Paprika

Paprika adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings. It’s a common ingredient in Hungarian cuisine and pairs well with meat fillings. Paprika can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

9. Red Pepper Flakes

Red pepper flakes add a spicy, slightly smoky flavor to dumplings. They pair well with meat and vegetable fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

10. Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds add a nutty, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings. They’re a common ingredient in Chinese cuisine and pair well with pork or chicken fillings. Sesame seeds can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

11. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds a salty, umami flavor to dumplings. It’s a common ingredient in Asian cuisine and pairs well with meat and vegetable fillings. Soy sauce can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

12. Rice Vinegar

Rice vinegar adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings. It’s a common ingredient in Chinese cuisine and pairs well with pork or chicken fillings. Rice vinegar can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

13. Mirin

Mirin is a sweet Japanese rice wine that adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to dumplings. It pairs well with pork or chicken fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

14. Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce is a sweet, savory sauce commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It adds a complex, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings and pairs well with pork or chicken fillings. Hoisin sauce can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.

15. Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is a savory sauce made from oysters and adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor to dumplings. It pairs well with meat and vegetable fillings and can be used in both the filling and the dipping sauce.