Crispy Vegan Rice Paper Dumplings with Baked Tofu & Nori: Your New Favorite Healthy Meal

Experience the delightful crunch of these homemade crispy rice paper dumplings, generously filled with savory baked tofu, wholesome brown sushi rice, fresh, vibrant vegetables, and mineral-rich nori sheets. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfectly complemented by a creamy, spicy-sweet peanut dipping sauce.

Life has a wonderful way of throwing unexpected moments our way, doesn’t it? Since we last connected, I orchestrated a rather epic surprise party for my partner, M, at a lively local brewery. The planning involved a lot of clandestine messages and hushed phone calls, a delicate dance of logistics to ensure all our friends and family could make it without M catching even a whiff of suspicion.

With surprise parties, there’s always that nervous flutter – will it actually work? Will the guest of honor genuinely be surprised, or will some subtle clue give it all away? But the moment M rounded the corner, his eyes landing on a table overflowing with his favorite people, the look of absolute bewilderment and then pure joy on his face was priceless. He truly didn’t have a CLUE, and that made my heart swell with accomplishment. We did it!

You see, surprising, or perhaps “pranking” M, has become a delightful little hobby of mine. There was the time my cousin and her husband orchestrated a birthday Indian takeout surprise that perfectly hit the spot. And who could forget the legendary April Fools’ joke where I swapped out his beloved cashew butter for tahini? (To this day, the memory still makes me chuckle!) After soaking in the warmth of his surprise party, surrounded by so much love, M turned to me and asked, “Would you like it if I threw you a surprise party?”

My honest answer? I’m not entirely sure! While I adore the thought and effort, I confess I don’t always love being surprised in my own life. I’m a planner through and through. I thrive on knowing what’s coming, mapping out every detail with a Plan A, B, C, and even a Plan D for good measure. The idea of showing up at a brewery, expecting a quiet evening with my partner, only to suddenly become the beaming center of attention for a dozen cherished faces… Well, M, if you ever do manage to pull off a surprise on me, we’ll certainly find out if I laugh or cry!

In the meantime, I have a different kind of surprise for you – one that promises to fight off those lingering winter doldrums. It’s true, January felt like it stretched on forever, even with the excitement of M’s birthday keeping me going. The short, dark days often leave us craving something vibrant, comforting, and utterly delicious to brighten our spirits. And that’s exactly what these Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings are here to deliver.

These aren’t just any dumplings; they’re a symphony of textures and flavors. Each one is meticulously crafted with chewy brown sushi rice, savory baked tofu, fresh, crisp vegetables, and a delightful hint of umami from nori sheets, all wrapped in a delicate rice paper shell that fries up to golden-brown perfection. And, of course, no dumpling experience is complete without a truly exceptional dipping sauce. Our homemade peanut sauce adds that irresistible creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy kick that ties everything together beautifully.

Crafting the Perfect Brown Sushi Rice: Ingredients & Method

The foundation of these incredible dumplings begins with perfectly prepared sushi rice. I opt for brown sushi rice not just for its added nutritional benefits and fiber, but also for its wonderful chewy texture that holds up beautifully in the wraps. It’s essential to prepare the rice first, as it needs ample time to cool and chill before assembly, ensuring your dumplings are firm and easy to handle.

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful Brown Sushi Rice:

• Filtered water
• Eden Foods Short Grain Brown Rice
• Eden Foods Brown Rice Vinegar
• Pure maple syrup
• Sea salt

These simple ingredients combine to create a rice that is sticky enough for sushi, yet retains the satisfying texture of brown rice, with a delicate balance of sweet and tangy notes from the vinegar and maple syrup.

How to Make Brown Sushi Rice: Step-by-Step

Preparing sushi rice might seem intimidating, but it’s quite straightforward. Follow these steps for consistently delicious results:

1. Begin by rinsing your brown rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming overly gummy.
2. Combine the rinsed brown rice and filtered water in a sturdy saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and allow the rice to gently simmer. The key here is patience; let it cook undisturbed for about an hour, or until all the water has been completely absorbed and the rice grains are tender, yet still have a pleasant chew.
4. After an hour, remove the pan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it rest for an additional 10 minutes. This steaming period allows the rice to finish cooking evenly and become perfectly fluffy.
5. Once the rice has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the brown rice vinegar, pure maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. Gently fold everything together until the rice is uniformly coated. The vinegar and maple syrup are crucial for achieving that authentic sushi rice flavor profile.
6. Cover the bowl and place the seasoned rice in the refrigerator. Chilling the rice is vital for easy handling and to prevent the rice paper from tearing during assembly.

Perfectly Baked Tofu: Ingredients & Preparation

Our next crucial component is the savory baked tofu, which provides a wonderful protein-rich filling and a satisfying texture to the dumplings. Baking the tofu ensures it’s firm, flavorful, and doesn’t introduce excess moisture, which is important for crispy wrappers.

Here’s what you need for the tofu and its simple marinade:

• Extra firm tofu
• Tamari Lite
• Garlic powder

Opting for extra-firm tofu is key here, as it holds its shape best and achieves a superior texture when baked. The Tamari Lite and garlic powder create a subtle yet deeply savory marinade that infuses the tofu with delicious umami notes.

How to Prepare Baked Tofu & Marinade

Transforming bland tofu into a flavor powerhouse is easier than you think:

1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. If your tofu isn’t already pressed, take a few minutes to press out excess water. This step is crucial for achieving a firm, chewy texture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place it on a plate, and top it with a heavy object (like a cookbook or a cast-iron pan) for about 15-30 minutes.
3. Once pressed, slice the extra-firm tofu into 12 even rectangles. These will be the perfect size for our dumplings.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tofu rectangles with Tamari Lite and garlic powder. Gently toss or mix with your hands (being careful not to break the tofu) until each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade.
5. Arrange the marinated tofu rectangles on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring none of the pieces are touching. This allows for even air circulation and promotes uniform browning.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tofu edges are golden brown and the texture is slightly firm to the touch. For even cooking and browning, remember to flip the tofu pieces halfway through the baking time.
7. Once baked, set the tofu aside to cool slightly. It can also be prepared in advance and chilled until you’re ready to assemble.

Irresistible Peanut Dipping Sauce: Ingredients & Method

What’s a delicious dumpling without an equally irresistible dipping sauce? This creamy, savory, sweet, and tangy peanut sauce is the perfect accompaniment to our crispy rice paper dumplings. Its rich flavor profile beautifully balances the freshness of the vegetables and the savoriness of the tofu.

Here’s what you need to create this luscious Peanut Sauce:

• Creamy peanut butter
• Tamari Lite
• Maple syrup
• Chili garlic sauce
• Lime juice
• Filtered water

The combination of creamy peanut butter provides a rich base, Tamari Lite adds depth, maple syrup offers natural sweetness, chili garlic sauce brings a delightful kick, and lime juice brightens everything with a zesty tang. Filtered water helps achieve the perfect consistency.

How to Whip Up Your Peanut Sauce

This sauce is incredibly easy to make, coming together in mere minutes:

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, Tamari Lite, maple syrup, chili garlic sauce, and fresh lime juice.
2. Whisk all the ingredients vigorously with a fork until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Gradually add filtered water, a tablespoon at a time, continuing to whisk until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. You’re aiming for a consistency that is thick enough to generously coat the dumplings but still pourable and easy to dip. Adjust the water content as needed to thin it out perfectly.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want a little more lime for tang, more maple syrup for sweetness, or extra chili garlic sauce for heat.
5. Set the sauce aside. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days. If it thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a tiny bit more water to loosen it up before serving.

Assembling Your Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings: Ingredients & Process

With all our components prepped – the chilled sushi rice, savory baked tofu, and vibrant peanut sauce – it’s time for the exciting part: assembling these magnificent crispy rice paper dumplings! This process is a bit like crafting edible works of art, and it’s surprisingly fun.

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these dumplings to life:

• Rice paper sheets
• Eden Foods Nori Sheets
• Cooked sushi rice (prepared earlier)
• Carrot, cut into matchsticks
• Bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Eden Foods Organic Black Sesame Oil

These ingredients come together to create a balanced filling, offering a medley of textures and flavors within each crispy wrapper.

How to Assemble & Fry Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings

Follow these steps carefully to ensure perfectly wrapped and deliciously crispy dumplings:

1. Prepare the Rice Paper Wraps: Set up your workstation. You’ll need a large, shallow bowl filled with warm water, your prepared sushi rice, baked tofu, nori rectangles (cut to about the size of the rice rectangle you’ll form), and sliced vegetables (carrot matchsticks and bell pepper). Also have a clean, damp cutting board or a flat, non-porous surface for wrapping.
2. Soften the Rice Paper: Take one rice paper sheet and completely submerge it in the warm water. Let it soak for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft, pliable, and translucent. Be careful not to oversoak, as it can become too sticky and difficult to handle.
3. Assemble the Filling: Carefully transfer the softened rice paper to your clean working surface. It will be delicate, so handle with care. In the center of the rice paper, place about ¼ cup of the chilled sushi rice. Using the back of a spoon, gently press and spread the rice into a neat rectangle, roughly the same size as your nori sheets.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Place one small rectangle of nori directly on top of the rice. This adds a fantastic umami boost and helps absorb any moisture. Next, lay a piece of baked tofu on the nori, followed by a small scattering of carrot matchsticks and thinly sliced bell pepper. Feel free to customize your veggies here!
5. Fold and Roll: Now, it’s time to wrap! Fold in the two opposing sides of the rice paper wrapper over the filling, just like you would with a burrito. Then, starting from the bottom, tightly roll the wrapper upwards, enclosing all the ingredients into a compact, secure dumpling. Repeat this process with the remaining rice paper sheets and filling until all are used up.
6. Get Them Crispy: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add about 1-2 teaspoons of Eden Foods Organic Black Sesame Oil (or another high-heat oil). Once the oil is shimmering and warm, carefully add the assembled rice paper dumplings to the pan. Ensure there’s enough space between them; overcrowding the pan can cause them to stick together and steam instead of crisping.
7. Fry to Perfection: Fry the dumplings for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and a wonderfully crispy exterior. The key to that satisfying crunch is patience and even browning.

Brand Highlights: My Favorite Eden Foods Products

I’m thrilled to partner with Eden Foods to bring this delightful recipe to you, using some of their exceptional products that truly elevate the flavors and nutritional value of these dumplings. Their commitment to quality and organic ingredients aligns perfectly with my philosophy of healthy, delicious eating.

For the sushi rice, I relied on Eden Foods Short Grain Brown Rice and Eden Foods Brown Rice Vinegar. This short-grain brown rice is simply fantastic; it offers a delightful chewy bite and a nutty flavor that is far more interesting than typical white rice, while also being packed with beneficial fiber. The brown rice vinegar adds the perfect tang and subtly sweet notes essential for authentic sushi rice, complementing the maple syrup beautifully.

Tucked inside each crispy rice paper dumpling are delicate sheets of Eden Foods Nori Sea Vegetable. We take these mild and naturally sweet seaweed sheets and cut them into smaller rectangles, strategically placing them within the dumpling. Not only do they provide a wonderful boost of vitamins and minerals, but they also contribute a profound depth of umami flavor. I particularly love the innovative twist of having the seaweed on the inside of these dumplings, offering a unique texture and flavor experience compared to traditional sushi rolls where nori is on the outside.

Lastly, to achieve that irresistible golden-brown perfection and crisp exterior, I used Eden Foods Organic Black Sesame Oil for pan-frying. This oil not only has a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying, but it also imparts a subtle, distinctive nutty aroma and flavor that perfectly complements the Asian-inspired profile of these dumplings. It’s truly the secret to their glorious crispiness.

Serving Suggestions & Customization for Your Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings

Once your Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings are beautifully golden and perfectly crunchy, it’s time to plate and enjoy! Transfer them to a serving dish and elevate their presentation and flavor with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onion. These garnishes add both visual appeal and a burst of freshness. But most importantly, don’t forget that incredible homemade peanut sauce for dipping! It’s the essential accompaniment that truly completes the experience.

These versatile Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings can be enjoyed in various ways. They make for a fantastic, satisfying appetizer when entertaining guests, offering a unique and healthy plant-based option. Alternatively, they’re substantial enough to serve as a delicious and complete weeknight dinner, especially when paired with a simple side salad. M and I had a wonderful time assembling these together for a fun and interactive dinner experience – it’s a great way to get everyone involved!

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. While I adore the combination of crunchy raw carrots and bell peppers I used, feel free to get creative and swap out the vegetables to suit your preference or what you have on hand. Thinly sliced cucumber, shredded cabbage, avocado, or even blanched asparagus could all be fantastic additions. Make it yours!

For the absolute best taste and texture, these Rice Paper Dumplings are best served fresh, straight from the pan. The crispy exterior is at its peak immediately after frying, so plan to make as many as you and your loved ones can enjoy right away. If you happen to have any leftover peanut sauce (which is rare, but possible!), don’t let it go to waste. It’s absolutely amazing as a dressing for a vibrant veggie stir-fry, or even drizzled over a simple grain bowl. Its versatility knows no bounds!

Enjoy every delightful, crispy, flavorful bite!

More Delicious Vegan Wraps & Plant-Based Delights

If you’ve fallen in love with these crispy rice paper dumplings and are looking for more innovative and healthy vegan wrap recipes, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some of my other favorite plant-based creations that are perfect for light lunches, vibrant dinners, or satisfying snacks:

• Green Chickpea Salad Collard Wraps

• Grilled Tempeh Collard Wraps With Mango Salsa & Spicy Almond Butter Sauce

• Ultimate Salad Crunch Wrap

• Grain-Free Flatbread Wraps with Tandoori Chickpeas

• Leftover “Holiday” Collard Wraps with Turkey Jackfruit

• Curried Sweet Potato & Lentil Collard Wraps

• Vibrant Rainbow Hummus Avocado Collard Wraps

• Flavorful Curried Chickpea Salad Collard Wraps

• Rainbow Rice Paper Wraps with Black Sesame Sauce

I Want to Hear From You! Your Feedback Matters

Your culinary adventures are my inspiration! If you dive into making this Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings recipe, I would absolutely love to hear all about it. Your experiences, tips, and insights help me create even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy. Don’t be shy – please leave me a comment, a star rating, and a review right below. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps our community grow!

And for those who love to share their beautiful creations, please give me a shout on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino. I always get so much joy seeing your culinary masterpieces in my feed!

Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Be sure to check out my Pinterest page. You’ll find a treasure trove of recipes just like this one, perfect for pinning and saving for your next cooking adventure.

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XO Lauren

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