Does Trader Joe's Have Vegetarian Dumplings? Your Guide to Plant-Based Options

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to official product information, Trader Joe's does have vegetarian dumplings available in its frozen aisle, including several fully vegan options. For shoppers looking for quick and flavorful plant-based meals, Trader Joe's selection provides several tempting choices.

Quick Summary

Trader Joe's carries a range of plant-based frozen dumplings, featuring the classic Vegetable Dumplings, new vegan Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings, and Thai Vegetable Gyoza.

Key Points

Variety Confirmed: Yes, Trader Joe's offers several distinct vegetarian and vegan dumpling options in its frozen food section.
Three Main Types: The primary choices are the classic Vegetable Dumplings, the new Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings, and the Thai Vegetable Gyoza.
Fully Vegan Options: Both the Vegetable Dumplings and the Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings are explicitly vegan, with the latter featuring a broth made with agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Preparation Methods: You can prepare the dumplings by pan-frying, steaming, or microwaving, depending on the variety and your desired texture.
Enhance Flavor: Serve with flavorful dipping sauces like soy sauce with ginger, rice vinegar, or the popular Crunchy Chili Onion for an elevated experience.
Check Labels: Always check the ingredients list, as other similar dumpling products at Trader Joe's may contain meat or other non-vegetarian ingredients.

Your Guide to Vegetarian Dumplings at Trader Joe's

For many years, vegetarians and vegans have relied on Trader Joe's for a variety of convenient, plant-based products. When it comes to dumplings, the beloved grocery store does not disappoint. While meat-based dumplings are popular, Trader Joe's offers several distinct and delicious options for those who prefer to skip the meat. This guide breaks down the vegetarian and vegan dumplings available, how to prepare them, and what makes each one unique.

The Classic: Trader Joe's Vegetable Dumplings

This is perhaps the most well-known vegetarian dumpling option at Trader Joe's and a staple in many shoppers' freezers. The Vegetable Dumplings are filled with a well-seasoned, savory mix of fresh vegetables.

Filling: A flavorful blend of chives, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and cabbage.
Wrapper: A thin, delicate wrapper made from wheat flour.
Preparation: These are incredibly versatile. They can be steamed, pan-fried, or microwaved in just minutes. Pan-frying is a popular method for achieving a satisfying crispy bottom.
Dietary Note: These are veritably vegan, meaning they are suitable for a vegan diet.

The Newcomer: Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings

In a nod to the popular Chinese dish xiao long bao, Trader Joe's has introduced a vegan version of its famous soup dumplings. This product was created in response to popular demand from vegetarian and vegan customers.

Filling: A mix of jackfruit, carrot, cabbage, spinach, and ginger.
Broth: A savory, aromatic broth is included inside the dumpling, created using vegan-friendly agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Preparation: The soup dumplings are best prepared via steaming or microwaving, which allows the interior broth to heat and become liquid.
Specialty: They require a specific method of eating—a small nibble or puncture to release the hot soup before consuming.

The Fusion Option: Trader Joe's Thai Vegetable Gyoza

For a different flavor profile, the Thai Vegetable Gyoza offers a flavorful fusion twist. These crescent-shaped dumplings are inspired by both Chinese and Thai cuisine.

Filling: The filling has a more pungent flavor profile, featuring white cabbage, carrot, chive, white radish, onion, and spices.
Wrapper: A thin, traditional gyoza wheat flour wrapper.
Preparation: Pan-frying is the recommended method to achieve a crispy texture on the bottom, followed by a brief steam with a splash of water. They can also be added directly to soup.
Dietary Note: These are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. The ingredient list is free of animal products.

Comparison of Trader Joe's Vegetarian Dumplings


Feature	Vegetable Dumplings	Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings	Thai Vegetable Gyoza
Filling	Chives, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, cabbage	Jackfruit, carrot, cabbage, spinach, ginger, vegan broth	Cabbage, carrot, chive, radish, onion, ginger
Dietary Info	Vegan	Vegan	Vegetarian/Vegan
Key Flavor	Classic dim sum with umami mushroom notes	Soupy, aromatic broth with ginger kick	Pungent, savory Thai-inspired spices
Best Prep	Pan-fry for crispy bottom, steam for soft wrapper	Steaming or microwaving	Pan-frying for crispy bottom
Texture	Firm, vegetable-packed filling	Broth-filled with a tender, jackfruit-based filling	Crispy bottom (pan-fried), chewy filling

How to Serve Your Trader Joe's Dumplings

While the dumplings are delicious on their own, pairing them with a dipping sauce elevates the experience. Trader Joe's offers several options that complement the different flavors.

Classic Dip: A simple mix of reduced sodium soy sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a little grated ginger is a perfect companion for the Vegetable Dumplings.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, combine soy sauce with a dollop of Trader Joe's Crunchy Chili Onion.
Sesame Vinaigrette: A simple soy-sesame vinaigrette is an excellent pairing for the Thai Vegetable Gyoza.
Meal Prep: To create a more substantial meal, serve the dumplings alongside Trader Joe's Vegetable Fried Rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Are There Any Other Vegetarian Dumpling Options?

Trader Joe's product lineup can vary by season and location. While the three listed above are the most common vegetarian options, it's always a good idea to check the frozen appetizer section. Other vegetarian-friendly products like Vegetable Samosas or Spring Rolls might be available. Always check the ingredient list for the most up-to-date dietary information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the answer to "does Trader Joe's have vegetarian dumplings?" is a resounding yes, and not just one kind. From the classic and versatile Vegetable Dumplings to the innovative Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings and the flavorful Thai Vegetable Gyoza, there are excellent plant-based choices to satisfy any craving. With simple preparation and great flavor, these items continue to be a reason Trader Joe's is a go-to destination for vegetarians and vegans. For the best flavor, remember to choose your cooking method based on your desired texture and don't forget a delicious dipping sauce.

Trader Joe's offers a variety of products for every dietary preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Trader Joe's Vegetable Dumplings are made without any animal products. The filling consists of a vegan-friendly mix of chives, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and cabbage.

The filling for the Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings includes a mix of jackfruit, carrot, cabbage, spinach, and ginger, along with a savory vegan broth made with agar-agar.

Yes, the Thai Vegetable Gyoza are appropriate for both vegetarian and vegan diets. The filling is a flavorful blend of cabbage, carrot, chive, radish, onion, and spices.

For a crispy bottom, pan-fry them with a bit of oil. For a softer wrapper, you can steam them in a bamboo steamer or a covered pan with water. They can also be microwaved for a quick fix.

Many sauces pair well. A simple mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger is a classic choice. Trader Joe's also suggests their Crunchy Chili Onion for a spicy kick.

The standard vegetable dumplings contain wheat, so they are not gluten-free. Shoppers with gluten sensitivity should always check product labels for ingredients and allergens.

Yes. While they are a great snack, you can serve the Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings with Trader Joe's Vegetable Fried Rice or a side of steamed vegetables for a more complete and filling meal.

Yes, the broth in the Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings is a vegetable-based broth and the gelling agent is agar-agar, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.