Dumplings vs. Empanadas: Which One Deserves the Crown?

Few comfort foods have traveled the globe with as much cultural pride as dumplings and empanadas. Both wrapped in dough, filled with flavor, and enjoyed by generations, these iconic bites are more than just snacks—they’re edible expressions of identity. Whether it’s the steaming dumplings of East Asia or the golden-baked empanadas of Latin America and Spain, each version tells a story rooted in migration, resourcefulness, and regional flavor.

What makes this culinary debate so fascinating isn’t just the taste—it’s the tradition. Dumplings range from Chinese xiaolongbao to Polish pierogi, while empanadas span from Argentine street food stalls to Galician home kitchens. Yet despite their different forms, the heart of both dishes is the same: the joy of something simple, handmade, and passed down. But when you really compare them side by side—flavor, texture, versatility, and global appeal—the question becomes inevitable: who wins?

This post dives deep into what separates (and unites) dumplings and empanadas. From how to enjoy them best to surprising pairings and regional loyalties, we’ll break down the delicious divide—and maybe even challenge a few assumptions along the way.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki

How to Eat

Dumplings are often served steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, usually accompanied by dipping sauces like soy, vinegar, or chili oil. They’re best enjoyed hot and fresh, often in large servings meant for sharing. Use chopsticks or a spoon, depending on the cuisine, and don’t be afraid to slurp if soup is involved (it’s a sign of appreciation in many cultures).

Empanadas are typically eaten by hand, whether hot or at room temperature, and are perfect for on-the-go meals or informal gatherings. From meaty fillings like beef and chicken to vegetarian or sweet versions, empanadas don’t need sauces—but they’re excellent with chimichurri, hot sauce, or even yogurt dips depending on the region.

Both foods pair well with communal settings, strong beverages (tea for dumplings, wine or beer for empanadas), and an appetite for second helpings.

How to Partner

Dumplings are best paired with light broths, stir-fried greens, or rice-based sides. Think of them as the star of an Asian-style tapas experience, where a variety of small dishes complement the texture and subtlety of the dumplings. A crisp white wine or jasmine tea can balance the richness.

Empanadas shine when paired with fresh salads, pickled vegetables, or a light soup. In Latin America, they’re often accompanied by regional sauces, from spicy ají to tangy salsas. Pair them with Malbec, sangria, or even a local lager for a well-rounded experience.

Planning a dinner party? Try a fusion spread: dumplings for the appetizer, empanadas for the main event.

Culturally, dumplings are often viewed as more “authentic” or traditional, while empanadas are sometimes dismissed as casual street food. This assumption overlooks the complexity of empanada fillings and baking techniques, which vary dramatically across countries. Some empanadas require days of preparation—hardly “simple” cuisine.

On the other hand, dumplings have faced stereotyping too. In Western cultures, they’ve often been reduced to supermarket potstickers, stripping away the deep cultural craftsmanship behind varieties like khinkali, momos, or jiaozi. This simplification overlooks their ceremonial significance in many Asian cultures.

Another point of debate is health perception. While dumplings are often steamed and seen as lighter, many are still calorie-dense and high in sodium. Empanadas, typically fried or baked with meat and cheese, are considered heavier—but with vegetarian and whole-grain versions on the rise, that stereotype is being challenged.

What Are Dumplings?

Dumplings are small pieces of dough, often filled with a savory or sweet filling, and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including steaming, boiling, frying, or baking. They are a staple in many Asian cuisines, especially in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes, but versions of dumplings can also be found in European cuisines like Polish pierogi or Italian ravioli.

Common Characteristics of Dumplings:

Dough: The dough is usually made with wheat flour, water, and sometimes egg. Dumpling wrappers are typically thinner and more elastic.

Filling: Dumplings are often filled with a variety of ingredients, such as ground meat, vegetables, seafood, or tofu. The filling can be savory or sweet.

Cooking Methods: Dumplings can be steamed, boiled, pan-fried, deep-fried, or even baked.

Shape and Size: Dumplings come in many shapes, ranging from crescent-shaped Chinese potstickers to round soup dumplings. They tend to be smaller and bite-sized.

Serving Style: Dumplings are often served with dipping sauces such as soy sauce, vinegar, or spicy chili oil.

Examples of Popular Dumplings:

Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi): Thin, dough wrappers filled with ground meat and vegetables, typically boiled or pan-fried.

Japanese Gyoza: Similar to Chinese dumplings, but usually pan-fried and served with a soy-based dipping sauce.

Korean Mandu: Thicker-skinned dumplings filled with a mixture of beef or pork and vegetables, steamed or fried.

Polish Pierogi: Soft, boiled dumplings filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, or sauerkraut.

Typical Dumpling Ingredients:

For Dough: Wheat flour, water, salt.

For Filling: Ground meat (pork, chicken, or beef), cabbage, scallions, mushrooms, tofu, and seasonings like soy sauce and ginger.

Read here how to make dumplings

What Are Empanadas?

Empanadas are stuffed pastries made by folding dough over a filling, creating a half-moon shape. The word empanada comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which means “to wrap or coat in bread.” Empanadas are popular in Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines, with countless regional variations.

Common Characteristics of Empanadas:

Dough: The dough is typically made with wheat flour, butter or lard, water, and salt. It has a flakier, pastry-like texture compared to dumpling dough.

Filling: Empanadas can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients, such as ground or shredded meat, cheese, potatoes, or seafood, often seasoned with spices like cumin and paprika.

Cooking Methods: Empanadas are usually baked or deep-fried until golden and crispy.

Shape and Size: Empanadas are usually larger than dumplings and have a characteristic half-moon shape. The edges are crimped or folded to seal in the filling.

Serving Style: Empanadas are often served hot or at room temperature, with no additional sauces, though some regions serve them with spicy sauces or salsa.

Examples of Popular Empanadas:

Argentinian Empanadas: Often filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, and olives, seasoned with paprika and cumin.

Spanish Galician Empanadas: Large, pie-like empanadas filled with tuna, peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

Colombian and Venezuelan Empanadas: Made with a cornmeal-based dough and filled with shredded beef, chicken, or cheese.

Filipino Empanadas: Filled with ground pork, carrots, and potatoes, often with a sweet or savory twist.

Typical Empanada Ingredients:

For Dough: Wheat flour, butter or lard, egg, salt, water or milk.

For Filling: Ground or shredded meat (beef, chicken, or pork), onions, potatoes, olives, cheese, and various spices.

Read here how to make empanadas

Key Differences Between Dumplings and Empanadas

Dough Type:

Dumplings: The dough is generally thinner, pliable, and chewy. It is usually made with wheat flour and water.

Empanadas: The dough is more similar to pastry dough, often made with butter or lard, giving it a flaky texture when baked or fried.

Shape and Size:

Dumplings: Typically smaller, bite-sized, and can come in various shapes (round, crescent, or even pleated).

Empanadas: Generally larger, half-moon shaped, and designed to be hand-held.

Cooking Methods:

Dumplings: Usually steamed, boiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried.

Empanadas: Typically baked or deep-fried.

Flavor Profile:

Dumplings: Tend to be lighter and focus more on the freshness of ingredients, often served with dipping sauces.

Empanadas: Have bolder, spicier flavors, often using rich fillings seasoned with spices and herbs.

Cultural Origin:

Dumplings: Originated in Asia and Eastern Europe.

Empanadas: Have roots in Spain and spread throughout Latin America and the Philippines.

Recipes

Basic Dumpling Recipe

Ingredients for Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 tsp salt

Filling:

1/2 pound ground pork or chicken
1/2 cup chopped cabbage
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp minced ginger

Directions:

Combine flour, salt, and water to form a smooth dough. Let rest for 30 minutes. Mix the filling ingredients until well combined. Roll out the dough and cut into small circles.

Place a small spoonful of filling in the center, fold over, and seal. Steam, boil, or pan-fry until cooked through.

Basic Empanada Recipe

Ingredients for Dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter (chilled and diced)
1/2 cup cold water
1 tsp salt

Filling:

1/2 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup chopped olives
1/2 cup diced potatoes (cooked)
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

Combine flour, salt, and butter, and mix until crumbly. Add water until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes. Sauté onions, beef, and spices. Add olives and potatoes.

Roll out dough, cut into circles, place filling in the center, and fold in half. Seal edges. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

Calories Comparison:

Dumplings:

Boiled/Pan-fried dumplings (3 pieces): 150-180 calories. Deep-fried dumplings: 200-250 calories (3 pieces).

Empanadas:

Baked empanadas (1 medium): 250-300 calories. Fried empanadas: 350-450 calories (depending on size and filling).

Tips for Making Perfect Dumplings and Empanadas

For Dumplings:

Keep the dough covered while shaping to prevent it from drying out. Adjust the filling to your taste, but avoid overfilling to prevent them from bursting. Use a non-stick pan for perfect pan-fried dumplings with crispy bottoms.

For Empanadas:

Chill the dough before rolling to achieve a flaky texture. Seal the edges well to prevent filling leakage.
Brush with egg wash before baking for a golden, glossy finish.

Origin and History

Dumplings have existed in various forms for centuries, with many cultures claiming their own version. In China, records of stuffed dough parcels date back to the Han dynasty, where physicians recommended warm dumplings as a cure for winter illnesses. From there, the concept traveled along trade routes, evolving into diverse shapes and fillings in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and beyond. Each region adapted the basic idea to its climate, ingredients, and traditions, turning dumplings into a universal symbol of comfort.

Empanadas emerged from a different culinary path, rooted in the Iberian Peninsula. The term comes from the word “empanar,” which means to wrap in bread. Spanish and Portuguese sailors carried early empanadas as practical, portable meals, filled with meats or vegetables to fuel long voyages. When colonial expansion reached Latin America and the Philippines, local ingredients reshaped the filling profiles, creating regional variations that reflect their landscapes. Over time, empanadas became a cultural staple in festivals, street markets, and family kitchens.

While dumplings and empanadas developed on separate continents, their core idea is surprisingly similar: a simple dough envelope holding savory or sweet fillings. Each journey reflects human migration, adaptation, and the desire to combine convenience with flavor. Both foods became part of communal celebrations, shared during holidays or eaten as everyday meals. Their histories show how similar culinary concepts can emerge independently when cultures search for the same comfort in food.

The debate over which dish defines comfort food has sparked passionate arguments among food lovers. Supporters of dumplings claim that their versatility and long history make them the more authentic expression of global cuisine. They argue that dumplings can be boiled, steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, offering endless regional styles. Empanada fans counter that the dish’s portability, bold fillings, and simple construction make it more adaptable for modern life. They believe that empanadas better reflect the blending of cultures across continents.

Another point of controversy involves the idea of authenticity. Some food enthusiasts insist that dumplings are meant to represent certain traditions and should be prepared with specific techniques. Others argue that empanadas have held onto regional identity while embracing change, with fillings ranging from spicy meats to fresh seafood. The debate often shifts from flavor to philosophy, raising questions about whether a dish should remain fixed in tradition or evolve with new influences and creativity.

There is also disagreement about accessibility. Dumpling makers often point out that the shaping technique requires patience and practice, suggesting that the skill involved contributes to their charm. Empanada makers argue that the simpler folding process makes the dish easier to master, opening the door to experimentation for home cooks. These contrasting views highlight how people interpret value: some prioritize craftsmanship, while others emphasize the freedom to personalize a recipe.

How Long They Take to Prepare

Preparing dumplings typically involves several stages: mixing dough, rolling wrappers, preparing fillings, and shaping each piece by hand. The process can take an hour or more, especially for beginners. The time investment reflects the detail required to create uniform pieces that cook evenly. Once shaped, dumplings may cook quickly, but the preparation stage often becomes a social activity, with families or friends folding together at the table.

Empanadas usually require less hands-on time. The dough is rolled into circles, filled, and folded into a half-moon shape with a simple crimp. Even large batches can be assembled in under an hour, especially when the filling is prepared in advance. Baking or frying takes less time than steaming dozens of dumplings, making empanadas appealing for gatherings where efficiency matters. The straightforward assembly also makes it easier for inexperienced cooks to participate.

Despite the difference in preparation time, both dishes allow for flexible scheduling. Fillings can be made earlier in the day, dough can rest in the refrigerator, and assembly can happen moments before cooking. Whether shaping dumplings together or lining trays with empanadas, the process creates a sense of participation that enhances the experience beyond the meal itself. The time involved is not just about efficiency, but about how each dish brings people together.

Serving Suggestions

Dumplings shine in a variety of settings, from small plates shared among friends to centerpiece dishes in family dinners. They pair well with dipping sauces such as soy, vinegar dressings, or chili oils, which add depth without overwhelming delicate fillings. Steamed dumplings can be served alongside broth for a lighter meal, while pan-fried varieties work well with crisp vegetables or fermented sides that cut through the richness.

Empanadas are often served as individual portions, making them ideal for parties, street food stalls, or casual meals. Their bold fillings encourage pairing with fresh salads, salsas, or simple sauces like chimichurri. Because empanadas can be filled with a wide range of ingredients, they can occupy multiple roles on the table: appetizer, main dish, or even dessert when filled with fruit. Their handheld format invites informal eating and encourages conversation.

For a shared meal experience, combining both dishes can create a unique tasting event. Offer small dumplings with light dipping sauces, followed by empanadas filled with robust flavors. The contrast between steamed delicacy and baked or fried crunch creates exciting variety. Pairing with simple drinks like tea or mineral water allows the food to stay at the center of attention. Highlighting both dishes together showcases the diversity and creativity of global comfort cooking.

Final Thoughts

The showdown between dumplings and empanadas is less about declaring a winner and more about celebrating the creativity behind both dishes. Each represents centuries of adaptation shaped by culture, geography, and tradition. Dumplings reflect the skill and patience of hand-crafted cuisine, while empanadas embody practicality and bold regional flavors. Comparing them reveals common threads in human cooking, showing how different societies reach similar answers when designing portable, comforting meals.

The debate also invites reflection on what comfort means in food. For some, comfort comes from the warmth of broth and delicate textures. For others, it comes from biting into a flaky crust filled with seasoned ingredients. Both dishes encourage gathering, sharing, and conversation. These elements matter as much as the specific recipe, suggesting that comfort food is defined by experience as much as taste.

Ultimately, the question of which dish reigns supreme might not have a final answer. Instead, the fun lies in exploring both cuisines, trying new fillings, learning shaping techniques, or sharing plates with friends. Whether steamed, boiled, baked, or fried, the appeal of dumplings and empanadas shows that comfort food crosses borders. Choosing a favorite becomes a personal journey rather than a universal verdict, letting each eater decide which bite feels most like home.