How much cholesterol is in steamed dumplings?

November 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition data, a single steamed chicken dumpling can contain around 12-17mg of cholesterol, depending on its size and recipe. The amount of cholesterol is in steamed dumplings is primarily determined by the filling, with animal-based proteins contributing more than plant-based ones.

Quick Summary

The cholesterol content of steamed dumplings varies based on the filling. Learn how protein sources like chicken, pork, and shrimp compare to vegetable fillings and how to select healthier, lower-cholesterol options.

Key Points

Content Varies: The amount of cholesterol in steamed dumplings is primarily determined by the filling, not the steaming process itself.
Lean is Best: Dumplings with vegetable fillings or lean chicken contain the lowest amount of cholesterol.
Seafood is Higher: Shrimp dumplings contain higher levels of cholesterol compared to meat or vegetable options.
Choose Steamed over Fried: Steaming is the healthiest cooking method, as it adds no extra fat or oil, unlike frying.
Moderation is Key: While dumplings can be part of a healthy diet, portion control and pairing with vegetables are crucial for those managing cholesterol.

Understanding Cholesterol in Steamed Dumplings

Steamed dumplings are a popular dish in many cuisines, often hailed as a healthier alternative to their pan-fried or deep-fried counterparts because they contain less added fat. However, the cholesterol content is directly tied to the ingredients used in the filling, particularly the type of protein. While the steaming process itself adds no cholesterol, the choice of ingredients is a major determining factor in the final nutritional profile.

The Role of Different Fillings

Not all dumplings are created equal when it comes to cholesterol. The filling is the primary driver of this nutritional value. Below is a breakdown of how different fillings impact the cholesterol content.

Pork Dumplings: Pork is a fatty meat and a common dumpling filling. One serving of pork dumplings can have a moderate amount of cholesterol, with some varieties reporting 15-65mg depending on the cut of pork used. Leaner cuts and careful preparation can help reduce this amount.
Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow): Shrimp is known to be higher in cholesterol. A single serving of shrimp dumplings can contain a significant amount of cholesterol, sometimes as high as 75-92mg, which is a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake. However, some nutritionists still consider shrimp a healthy choice for many people, especially when consumed in moderation, because it is low in saturated fat.
Chicken Dumplings: Using ground chicken, especially lean breast meat, typically results in a lower-cholesterol dumpling compared to pork or shrimp. Data shows steamed chicken dumplings can contain about 12-17mg of cholesterol per dumpling.
Vegetable Dumplings: These are the lowest cholesterol option and, in many cases, contain virtually no cholesterol. Since cholesterol is only found in animal products, vegetable fillings like cabbage, mushrooms, tofu, and other greens contain 0mg of cholesterol. This makes them an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions or health concerns related to cholesterol intake.

Comparing Different Dumpling Types

To illustrate the difference in cholesterol levels, here is a comparison table of various common steamed dumpling types. The nutritional information can vary based on brand, size, and specific recipe, so these are representative estimates.


Dumpling Type (Per Dumpling)	Estimated Cholesterol (mg)	Notes on Content
Vegetable	0-4 mg	Cholesterol-free; may have trace amounts from added oil
Chicken	12-17 mg	Moderate; best with lean chicken breast
Pork	15-20 mg	Variable; depends on the cut of pork
Shrimp	25+ mg (for 1 serving/6pcs)	Higher content; but low in saturated fat

How to Enjoy Dumplings with Low Cholesterol

If you are managing your cholesterol levels but still want to enjoy dumplings, there are several ways to make them a healthier choice:

Choose your filling wisely: Opt for vegetable-filled dumplings or those made with lean ground chicken. Avoid or limit those with high-cholesterol seafood or fatty meats.
Control portion sizes: A modest portion of 4-6 dumplings can be a healthy snack or part of a balanced meal, while an entire plate of 15 dumplings will significantly increase your intake of calories and sodium.
Use light sauces: The dipping sauce can contribute a lot of sodium and hidden calories. Use light sauces, such as a vinegar-based sauce with ginger and garlic, and use high-sodium sauces like soy sauce sparingly.
Balance your meal: Pair your dumplings with a side of steamed vegetables, a light broth, or a salad. This adds fiber and nutrients, making the meal more filling and balanced.
Go homemade: Making dumplings at home allows for complete control over ingredients. You can use less fatty meat, add more vegetables, and manage the amount of salt used.

A Final Note on Overall Health

While individual foods can have an impact on health, overall dietary patterns matter more. Incorporating steamed dumplings as an occasional treat in a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a very different story from consuming them frequently and in large quantities. The key is moderation and mindful eating, especially when managing specific health conditions like high cholesterol. For more comprehensive information on healthy eating, a reputable source like the American Heart Association offers extensive guidelines.

Conclusion

So, how much cholesterol is in steamed dumplings? The answer is: it depends. The cholesterol content can range from zero in pure vegetable dumplings to a notable amount in those filled with shrimp or fatty pork. Making informed choices about your filling, practicing portion control, and pairing them with healthy sides are all effective strategies to enjoy this delicious food without compromising your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dumplings with fillings like shrimp and fatty pork typically contain the highest amounts of cholesterol due to the animal protein used.

Yes, but it's important to choose lower-cholesterol options, such as vegetable-filled dumplings, and practice portion control. You should also be mindful of the high sodium content in sauces and some pre-packaged versions.

No, pure vegetable dumplings contain 0mg of cholesterol, as cholesterol is only present in animal-based products. Trace amounts might be introduced through cooking oil, but they are essentially cholesterol-free.

The cooking method affects fat content, not cholesterol. Steamed dumplings contain no added fat, while pan-frying introduces extra oil and calories. The filling determines the cholesterol level.

To reduce cholesterol, use lean protein like ground chicken breast instead of pork or shrimp, or opt for a full vegetable filling. You can also mix vegetables into a lean meat filling to reduce the amount of meat.

Shrimp has a high cholesterol count but is generally low in saturated fat, which is often considered more detrimental to heart health. In moderation, shrimp dumplings can be part of a healthy diet.

A healthy portion is typically considered 4 to 6 dumplings, especially when served as part of a larger meal with vegetables and a light sauce. Larger portions can lead to excessive calorie and sodium intake.