Almost every culture has a dumpling: a bit of dough wrapped around a savory or sweet filling and boiled, steamed or fried. National Dumpling Day, on September 26, celebrates these comforting bites, from Chinese jiaozi and Japanese gyoza to Polish pierogi, Nepali momos, Korean mandu and Italian ravioli. It's a perfect day to try a new type or make dumplings at home with friends.
History of National Dumpling Day
Dumplings have been eaten for thousands of years. In China, legend credits Zhang Zhongjing, a physician of the Eastern Han dynasty around 200 AD, with inventing jiaozi to help villagers with frostbitten ears; the dumplings were shaped like ears. Archaeologists have found well-preserved dumplings in a Tang dynasty tomb in Turpan, China, more than 1,000 years old.
Dumplings spread along trade routes and developed independently in many cultures. Today, there are hundreds of varieties, from Georgian khinkali to Russian pelmeni and Latin American empanadas.
In China, dumplings are a traditional food for Lunar New Year, symbolizing wealth because their shape resembles ancient silver ingots. Who created National Dumpling Day is not documented.
Why National Dumpling Day Matters
Dumplings show how different cultures developed similar ideas, connecting people through food.
Making dumplings is a social activity, often done by families together during holidays.
Dumplings are also versatile, using whatever fillings are available, which makes them a great way to reduce food waste.
Dumplings are also a symbol of togetherness. In many families, making dumplings is a group activity, with relatives gathered around a table rolling dough, adding fillings and folding them into shapes. These gatherings pass down recipes, techniques and stories from one generation to the next, turning a simple meal into a cherished tradition.
How to Celebrate National Dumpling Day
- Make dumplings: fold jiaozi or potstickers at home.
- Try a new type: taste momos, mandu or khinkali.
- Visit a dumpling house: support a local restaurant.
- Host a folding party: invite friends to make dumplings.
- Freeze extras: freeze dumplings for quick meals.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a dumpling-making workshop or lunch from a local dumpling shop is a fun team activity. In classrooms, students can map dumplings from different countries, learn about Lunar New Year traditions or practice folding with play dough. At home, families can make dumplings together, letting children help fill and fold. Store-bought wrappers make it easy to get started.
Fun Facts About National Dumpling Day
- Legend credits Zhang Zhongjing with inventing jiaozi.
- Dumplings over 1,000 years old were found in Turpan, China.
- Dumplings symbolize wealth at Lunar New Year.
National Dumpling Day FAQs
When is National Dumpling Day?
National Dumpling Day is September 26.
Where did dumplings originate?
Many cultures developed them; China has a long dumpling history.
What is the difference between dumplings and potstickers?
Potstickers are pan-fried dumplings.
Can I freeze dumplings?
Yes; freeze them uncooked on a tray, then bag them.