Nothing feels more like home than a warm plate of dumplings. Whether you’re celebrating alone, with friends, or with family, dumplings always bring a comforting sense of tradition. But did you know that nearly every country has its own version of this beloved dish? This Global Dumpling Guide will take you on a journey through some of the most unique dumplings from around the world!
🥟 Asia: Where Dumplings Rule the Table
🇻🇳 Vietnam – Goldfish Dumplings (Bánh Bột Lọc)
These translucent dumplings are made from tapioca flour, stuffed with pork and shrimp, and either steamed or boiled in banana leaves. Served with fish sauce and crispy fried shallots, they are as delicate as they are delicious.
🇲🇳 Mongolia – Buuz (Steamed Meat Dumplings)
These dumplings resemble baozi or dim sum, but they are uniquely Mongolian! Traditionally eaten during the Lunar New Year, they are filled with ground beef or lamb, onions, and garlic, sometimes mixed with herbs like cabbage or mashed potatoes for extra flavor. 
🇰🇷 Korea – Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
Korean dumplings are larger than Chinese dumplings and are often packed with ground pork, glass noodles, and vegetables. Of course, no Korean dish is complete without kimchi, so expect some spice in many mandu recipes! They can be steamed, boiled, pan-fried, or served in soups.
🇹🇷 Turkey – Manti (Turkish Yogurt Dumplings)
Manti are small but flavorful dumplings found across Turkey, Central Asia, and even China’s Xinjiang region. They are stuffed with spiced lamb or beef, topped with garlicky yogurt and chili-infused butter, creating a rich, tangy contrast.
🇮🇳 India – Modak (Sweet Coconut Dumplings)
This teardrop-shaped dumpling is filled with grated coconut and palm sugar, either steamed or fried. Traditionally offered to Lord Ganesha during Hindu festivals, this dumpling brings a touch of sweetness to our Global Dumpling Guide!
🥟 South America: Bold and Flavorful Dumplings
🇧🇷 Brazil – Coxinhas (Chicken Leg Dumplings)
Shaped like a chicken drumstick, these deep-fried dumplings consist of thick dough wrapped around shredded chicken. They are an essential party snack in Brazil, crispy on the outside and irresistibly soft inside.
🇦🇷 Argentina & South America – Empanadas
Some argue that empanadas are too big to be considered dumplings, but we’re here to set the record straight—they absolutely are! These half-moon pastries are filled with tuna, chicken, or corn and are often baked or fried to perfection.
🇲🇽 Mexico – Tamales (Corn Dumplings)
Dating back to the Maya civilization, tamales are made from corn dough wrapped around meats, cheese, fruits, or vegetables, then steamed in corn husks or banana leaves. Their soft, fluffy texture and mix of sweet-and-savory flavors make them a must-try!
🥟 Europe: A Mix of Sweet & Savory
🇵🇱 Poland – Pierogi (Polish Dumplings)
Known as pierogi, these Polish dumplings come with savory or sweet fillings. Popular options include potatoes, minced meat, cheese, sauerkraut, or even fruits. They are usually boiled first, then pan-fried for a crispy outer layer.
🇪🇸 Portugal – Rissóis (Crispy Fried Dumplings)
These deep-fried dumplings are a popular Portuguese snack. The dough is coated in breadcrumbs before frying, and fillings can include seafood, ham, or chicken mixed with a creamy béchamel sauce.
🇨🇿 Czech Republic – Svestkove Knedlíky (Fruit Dumplings)
This unique dumpling is stuffed with fruit and prepared similarly to Chinese tangyuan. The dough is boiled, then topped with sugar and fresh cheese, creating a perfect balance of sweetness.
🇮🇹 Italy – Ravioli (Pasta Dumplings)
Italian cuisine wouldn’t be complete without ravioli, essentially a dumpling version of pasta. These stuffed pasta pockets are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and served with classic Italian sauces.
🇵🇷 Puerto Rico – Pasteles (Plantain Dough Dumplings)
Although they look like tamales, pasteles are wrapped in banana leaves and made with a unique dough consisting of mashed vegetables, pumpkin, plantains, and milk. Inside, you’ll find slow-cooked pork, chickpeas, and olives, creating a deliciously balanced sweet-and-savory taste.
🌍 Which Dumpling Will You Try First?
From savory to sweet, steamed to fried, the Global Dumpling Guide shows how dumplings truly unite cultures in the most delicious way possible. Have you tried any of these before? Which one is next on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
