Name: Savory Kanom Jeeb: Easy Thai Dumplings You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 250 grams Ground Pork; 1 large Egg (or flax egg for vegan option); 2 tablespoons Coriander Roots (fresh is best); 1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns; 3 cloves Garlic (or garlic powder as substitute); 1 medium Carrots (finely chopped); 2 stalks Green Onions (or chives as substitute); 5 grams Dried Shiitake Mushrooms (fresh mushrooms can be used); 2 tablespoons Golden Mountain Sauce (or soy sauce mixed with sugar); 1 teaspoon White Sugar (honey or agave syrup can be used); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegetarian option); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (or tapioca starch can be used); 20 pieces Dumpling Wrappers (or rice paper for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tablespoon Garlic Oil (can be omitted); 2 tablespoons Crispy Fried Garlic (optional garnish)

There’s a special joy that comes from crafting your own delicious snacks, and Kanom Jeeb is one of the best examples of this culinary bliss. As the steamer gently releases clouds of fragrant steam, the anticipation builds—it’s hard to resist the allure of these delicate Thai dumplings. You can almost taste the medley of flavors that await within each silky wrapper, whether you’re in the mood for savory ground pork or the delightful pop of shrimp.

I first encountered these delightful morsels at a bustling food market, where the vibrant atmosphere and enticing aromas made for an unforgettable experience. Once I got a taste of Kanom Jeeb, I made it my mission to recreate this dish at home. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile and can easily accommodate whatever fillings you have on hand. With a mix of warm spices, fresh herbs, and customizable fillings, these dumplings will not only impress your family and friends but also become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. Give my authentic Kanom Jeeb recipe a try, and indulge in the rich flavors of Thailand!

Why will you love Kanom Jeeb?

Versatile Fillings: Customize your dumplings with ground pork, shrimp, or even a medley of vegetables for a delicious vegan-friendly option.
Aromatic Experience: The unique blend of coriander roots, garlic, and spices will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents as they steam.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them as appetizers, and watch as your family and friends rave about this authentic Thai delicacy.
Cultural Delight: Enjoy a taste of Thailand right in your kitchen, showcasing the culinary fusion and flavors of this beloved dish.
Don’t forget to explore different variation ideas to keep your cooking exciting!

Kanom Jeeb Ingredients

Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let’s gather the essentials for your scrumptious Kanom Jeeb!

For the Filling

Ground Pork – The star of your dumpling filling; replace it with ground shrimp for a delightful twist.
Egg – Binds the ingredients beautifully; for a vegan twist, try using a flax egg instead.
Coriander Roots – Infuses the filling with an aromatic herbal note; fresh is best, but cilantro stems can work in a pinch.
Black Peppercorns – Adds a subtle heat; feel free to swap in ground black pepper if needed.
Garlic – Enhances the savory flavor profile; garlic powder can be used as a quick substitute.
Carrots – Offers a hint of sweetness and texture; substitute with any finely chopped veggies you have.
Green Onions – Adds freshness to the mix; chives can stand in if you’re out of green onions.
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms – Brings umami goodness to the dish; fresh mushrooms can work if you adjust for moisture.
Golden Mountain Sauce – A unique Thai seasoning; replace with soy sauce mixed with a dab of sugar if unavailable.
White Sugar – Balances the savory elements; honey or agave syrup works well as alternatives.
Oyster Sauce – Adds complexity to your filling; try mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option.
Cornstarch – Essential for binding the mixture; tapioca starch is a suitable substitute.

For the Wrappers

Dumpling Wrappers – Encapsulates your delicious filling; rice paper is a great gluten-free alternative.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty flavor; if needed, use vegetable oil instead.
Garlic Oil – Coats the wrappers to curb sticking; can be omitted if you have non-stick wrappers.
Crispy Fried Garlic – A flavorful garnish that elevates the dish; you can skip it or revert to fresh garlic for a lighter option.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting irresistibly tasty Kanom Jeeb!

How to Make Kanom Jeeb

Pound the Spices: Use a mortar and pestle to crush coriander roots, black peppercorns, and garlic. Aim for a paste-like consistency to release those aromatic flavors that will beautifully enhance your filling.
Mix the Sauces: In a bowl, stir together Golden Mountain sauce, white sugar, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. This mixture will provide depth and sweetness to your dumpling filling.
Blend the Filling: Combine ground pork, the sauce mixture, egg, and tapioca starch in a blender. Pulse until you achieve a smooth consistency—this ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly.
Fold in the Vegetables: Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl and gently fold in the crushed spices and your choice of diced vegetables like carrots and green onions. This adds a delightful texture.
Shape the Dumplings: Place a dumpling wrapper in a tablespoon, add about a teaspoon of filling, moisten the edges of the wrapper, and pinch it tightly to seal. These pockets of joy should have a lovely pleated edge.
Steam the Dumplings: Prepare a steamer lined with parchment paper, then place the dumplings inside. Steam them for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through and the wrappers are translucent—a sign they’re ready to enjoy!

Optional: Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Kanom Jeeb?

The delightful experience of savoring Kanom Jeeb can be beautifully enhanced by the right accompaniments that complement their rich flavors.

Spicy Soy Dipping Sauce: A zesty blend of soy sauce, chili oil, and lime juice adds a kick that brightens each bite.
Crispy Thai Spring Rolls: These light, crunchy rolls filled with vegetables provide a satisfying contrast to the tender dumplings. The crunchy texture makes each meal feel festive and fun.
Thai Salad with Lime Dressing: A refreshing mix of cucumber, carrots, and herbs dressed in a tangy lime sauce offers a vibrant, fresh element that balances the richness of the dumplings.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: A bowl of fluffy jasmine rice serves as a neutral base, letting the flavors of Kanom Jeeb take center stage while satisfying your appetite.
Chili Oil: Drizzling a little homemade chili oil over your dumplings adds an enticing heat that enhances the savory notes of the filling.
Thai Iced Tea: Indulge in the sweet, creamy flavors of this refreshing drink that perfectly balances the spices of the dumplings. The combination is a match made in culinary heaven!

With these delightful pairings, your Kanom Jeeb will make an unforgettable meal, leaving everyone wanting more!

Expert Tips for Kanom Jeeb

Perfect Wrapping: Ensure the edges of the dumpling wrappers are well-moistened before sealing to prevent them from opening during steaming.
Watch the Texture: Avoid making the filling too wet, as this will cause the dumplings to fall apart. Keep it thick and flavorful for the best results.
Steaming Method: For optimal steaming, use a bamboo steamer rather than a metal one, and always line it with parchment to keep the dumplings from sticking.
Doneness Check: The dumpling wrappers should be translucent and soft when the Kanom Jeeb are done. A quick taste test can also ensure the filling is cooked through.
Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, chill your dumplings before steaming for about 20 minutes; this helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

How to Store and Freeze Kanom Jeeb

Fridge: Store cooked Kanom Jeeb in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave for the best texture.

Freezer: For uncooked dumplings, place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen without thawing.

Reheating: To reheat frozen cooked dumplings, steam them for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the fresh taste even after storage!

Avoid Sticking: When stacking dumplings in containers, place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

Make Ahead Options

These Kanom Jeeb are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Alternatively, you can assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To prevent sticking, place a layer of parchment between the dumplings. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply steam the dumplings from the fridge for about 10 minutes. If you prefer, you can also freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray for up to 3 months and cook them straight from frozen, which makes for a quick and delicious meal anytime!

Kanom Jeeb Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to unleash your creativity by personalizing this delightful Thai dumpling recipe to suit your taste buds!

Seafood Twist: Substitute ground pork with shrimp for a lighter, ocean-inspired flavor that bursts with freshness.
Veggie Delight: Replace the meat filling entirely with finely chopped vegetables, creating a delicious vegan-friendly option.
Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped Thai chilies to your filling mixture for a spicy, zesty profile that will delight heat lovers.
Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint into the filling to elevate the aroma and flavor of your dumplings.
Sweet Sensation: For a unique twist, mix in a small amount of finely diced sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and creaminess.
Gluten-Free Magic: Use rice paper or gluten-free dumpling wrappers for a delightful gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Creamy Texture: Blend in a spoonful of cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess and a rich mouthfeel in every bite.
Umami Explosion: Swap in a splash of soy sauce or tamari for extra umami flavor, enhancing the overall depth of your delicious Kanom Jeeb.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to make Kanom Jeeb uniquely yours!

Kanom Jeeb Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for Kanom Jeeb?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh and fragrant coriander roots as they elevate the flavor profile. Look for firm, plump garlic cloves without any dark spots or sprouts. For your vegetables like carrots, choose bright and firm ones to maintain texture and sweetness in your filling. Fresh green onions should be vibrant green without wilting—these small details make a big difference in your dumplings!

How should I store my cooked Kanom Jeeb?
You can store your cooked Kanom Jeeb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a steamer or microwave to retain that delightful texture.

Can I freeze uncooked Kanom Jeeb, and if so, how?
Yes, very! To freeze uncooked Kanom Jeeb, first, arrange them in a single layer on a tray, ensuring they aren’t touching. Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours until they’re firm. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, you can steam them straight from frozen—no thawing needed!

What if my dumplings fall apart during cooking?
Don’t worry, this happens sometimes! If your dumplings fall apart, it might be due to a wet filling. To avoid this, make sure your filling is thick enough and well-mixed. Using cornstarch or tapioca starch can help bind everything together. Additionally, remember to moisten the edges of the wrappers properly before sealing them; it creates a strong bond that prevents any leakage while steaming.

Are Kanom Jeeb safe for people with allergies?
The filling contains common allergens like pork and seafood, so it’s essential to ensure your guests feel safe. For a gluten-free version, look for rice paper or gluten-free wrappers instead of traditional dumpling wrappers. You can also customize fillings to avoid allergens—like making a purely vegetable-based filling or opting for tofu if you’re avoiding meat. Always inform guests about the ingredients used for their safety!

How long will my homemade Kanom Jeeb stay fresh?
Homemade Kanom Jeeb can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. If you decide to freeze them, just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe bag as outlined previously. They can remain delicious for up to 3 months in the freezer! Just remember, when reheating, steam them for about 5-7 minutes to ensure they’re heated through and maintain their delightful texture.