Mandu are traditional Korean dumplings that have been a beloved part of Korean cuisine
for centuries. These plump, crescent-shaped parcels are filled with a delicious
mixture of seasoned meat and vegetables, wrapped in thin wheat-based dumpling skins,
and cooked to perfection. At Sso Yummy, we offer two classic preparations: steamed
mandu (jjin mandu) and fried mandu (gun mandu), each offering a unique texture and
flavor experience.
The filling is made with a savory blend of minced pork, vegetables like cabbage and
green onions, garlic, ginger, and Korean seasonings that create a deeply flavorful
interior. The dumpling skins are thin yet durable, holding the filling securely while
cooking to the ideal texture — soft and translucent for steamed mandu, or crispy and
golden for fried mandu. Each mandu is a perfect bite-sized package of comfort and
flavor.
What Makes Our Mandu Special
- Hand-folded dumplings using traditional Korean techniques
- Savory filling with seasoned meat, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings
- Two preparation options: steamed (soft and delicate) or fried (crispy and golden)
- Served with a savory dipping sauce for added flavor
- Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish
- Generous portions that are filling and satisfying
Our Mandu Varieties
Steamed Mandu (Jjin Mandu): These dumplings are gently steamed,
resulting in a soft, tender texture with a delicate, almost translucent wrapper.
The steaming process keeps the filling moist and juicy while allowing the subtle
flavors of the seasonings to shine through. Steamed mandu is perfect for those
who prefer a lighter, healthier option or want to taste the pure flavors of the
filling without the richness of frying.
Fried Mandu (Gun Mandu): These dumplings are pan-fried until golden
brown and crispy on the bottom, creating a wonderful contrast between the crunchy
exterior and the soft, juicy filling inside. The frying adds a layer of richness
and creates an irresistible texture that's incredibly satisfying. The crispy edges
provide a delightful crunch with every bite, making fried mandu a favorite among
those who love bold textures and flavors.
A Korean Comfort Food Classic
Mandu holds a special place in Korean cuisine as a comfort food enjoyed during
celebrations, family gatherings, and cold winter days. In Korean culture, families
often gather together to make mandu in large batches, turning the process into a
social activity where generations come together to fold dumplings by hand. This
tradition of making and sharing mandu symbolizes togetherness, prosperity, and good
fortune.
Mandu is also an essential component of several Korean dishes. Mandu-guk is a warming
soup featuring mandu in a clear broth, often eaten during the Korean New Year.
Tteok-mandu-guk combines mandu with rice cakes in a hearty soup. Mandu can also be
found in kimchi stew (kimchi-jjigae) or served simply with dipping sauce as an
appetizer. At Sso Yummy, we serve mandu in its purest form, allowing you to
appreciate the quality of the dumplings themselves.
How to Enjoy Our Mandu
Mandu is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Order a plate as an
appetizer to start your Korean street food feast, enjoy them as a satisfying snack
on their own, or pair them with tteokbokki or kimbap for a complete meal. The
dipping sauce we provide — typically a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili —
adds a tangy, savory kick that complements the dumplings perfectly. For an extra
treat, try dipping your mandu in tteokbokki sauce for a spicy twist!
Whether you're dining in at our Chinatown location, taking out for a cozy meal at
home, or ordering delivery anywhere in Calgary, our mandu arrives fresh and ready
to eat. They travel well for takeout and delivery, maintaining their texture and
flavor so you can enjoy the authentic taste of Korean dumplings wherever you are.
