Authentic Korean Mandu Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped kimchi
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped green onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup soy sauce for dipping
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar for dipping
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for dipping

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg and water. Mix together to form a smooth dough. Cover and set aside for 30 minutes to rest.
  2. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the ground pork, kimchi, green onion, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
  3. After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
  4. Place a spoonful of the pork mixture onto each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal, crimping with a fork for extra security.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the mandu in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  6. While the mandu are frying, prepare the dipping sauce. Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame seeds in a small bowl and mix well.
  7. Serve the mandu hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Replace the ground pork with ground chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Add shredded vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, or mushrooms to the filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different seasonings such as ginger, chili flakes, or five-spice powder to customize the flavor profile.
  • Try using rice paper wrappers instead of making the dough from scratch for a lighter and gluten-free version.
  • For a crispy alternative, bake the mandu in the oven instead of frying them.
  • Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and increasing the amount of vegetables or using alternative meat substitutes.
  • Serve the mandu with different dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a spicy soy-ginger sauce.
  • Add a crunchy element by including chopped water chestnuts, bean sprouts, or crushed peanuts in the filling.
  • Make mini mandu by using smaller dough circles and reducing the cooking time.

Recipe overview

This Mandu recipe will guide you through the process of making this delicious Korean dumpling right at home, from scratch! Expect to roll up your sleeves and dive into preparing the traditional dough, mixing a flavorful pork and kimchi filling, and frying up these tasty morsels to golden perfection. The end result is a satisfying dish with a crisp exterior and juicy interior, paired with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick. This recipe is sure to impress both your family and friends and bring a piece of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen. Enjoy the process and most importantly, the end result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
    Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with ground beef, chicken, or even tofu if you prefer.
  2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using it to make the mandu.
  3. Can I freeze the mandu?
    Yes, you can freeze the uncooked mandu. After assembling the mandu, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. Can I steam or boil the mandu instead of frying?
    Yes, you can steam or boil the mandu if you prefer a healthier cooking method. Steam them in a steamer basket for about 10-12 minutes, or boil them in a pot of water for about 5-6 minutes. Make sure they are cooked through and the filling is no longer pink.
  5. Can I make a vegetarian version of mandu?
    Absolutely! You can omit the meat and use a combination of finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, and tofu as the filling instead.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough for the mandu.
  • Large Skillet - Used for frying the mandu.
  • Cookie Cutter or Glass - Used to cut out circles of dough for the mandu.
  • Bowl - Used for mixing the dough, filling, and dipping sauce.
  • Fork - Used for crimping the edges of the mandu.
  • Paper Towels - Used for draining the fried mandu.

Origin stories

Mandu, the Korean dumpling, has a rich history that dates back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). It is believed that mandu was introduced to Korea by Yuan Mongolians who were traveling through the Silk Road. Once it arrived in Korea, the food quickly became a significant culinary staple, with its own regional variations across the country. For example, the popular Pyeongyang-style mandu from North Korea is known for its thinly rolled dough and generous filling, while the Hamgyeong-style mandu, also from the North, is typically filled with pungent ingredients like kimchi and mackerel. Despite these regional differences, all mandu share a common purpose: to bring warmth and satiety during the cold winter months, especially during the Korean Lunar New Year. This humble dumpling, with its diverse fillings and varied shapes, truly encapsulates the regional flavours and historical spirit of Korea.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.