Grumpy Dumplings: Small Batch Hand-Folded Fresh Dumplings Delivered!

A few months ago, a friend whose taste I trust asked me if I had tried Grumpy Dumplings? I said I had seen the account on Instagram, and recognized them from the local farmers’ markets, but had yet to try these so called “grumpy” dumplings. I was however already somewhat obsessed with their Japanese anime style branding, so why not give it a go? A few days later, I was able to procure some of their small batch dumplings ordered through their Instagram account (they since have launched a web site with online ordering), and as a bonus…they even delivered within 20 miles of Norwalk. Dinner was saved. 

Grumpy Dumpling Co. is a small family business started in 2022 by husband and wife, Kook and Joc, and Joc's brother Charlie. Kook is from Thailand and Joc lived there for nine years teaching English. Kook was a suit-wearing, Bangkok business guy with a passion for food who always dreamed of starting his own restaurant. Joc had entrepreneurial experience and missed good Thai food after moving back to America in the Spring of 2022. But neither had experience with the food industry. Enter Charlie, who is a veteran farmers' market pro and has worked with some of the best restaurants in Fairfield County. In late June 2022, Grumpy Dumpling Co. did their first pop-up event and sold out immediately.

When those boxes of Grumpy Dumplings arrived at my doorstep, I quickly realized these dumplings = zero grumpiness and all joy. These perfectly hand-folded fresh dumplings come in a box of six, each one a little pressed pocket of carefully seasoned goodness. When you place an order you will select from Chicken, Pork or Vegetable Dumplings, and all three varieties are made with organic meats and vegetables. The dumpling style is that of a gyoza, more of a Japanese style wrap, but the flavors are distinctively Thai.

Their best seller is the traditional Pork Dumpling, made with organic pork, garlic, green onion ginger, sesame oil, and cabbage. The Chicken is less commonly found in Asia, and has more of a celery undertone, but also delicious. The Veggie Dumplings are made with all organic vegetables including mushroom, carrots and cabbage, combined with ginger and soy sauce, and they are VEGAN. However, the REAL best seller is their highly addictive dipping sauce. They won’t divulge the complete ingredient list for this one, but people drink it straight. Yep…I’ve seen it happen. 

There are two ways to enjoy these Thai-style gyoza.  You can find them at one of their scheduled farmers’ market appearances (check market list on their new web site), where Kook and Joc will serve ‘em up hot on the spot. Option two would be to order them online, where they will arrive cold, requiring a mere 3 minutes of cook time sautéed in vegetable oil. PRO TIP: If you drink all of the dipping sauce before getting the dumplings cooked, you will have deep regrets. 

In addition to the three standard flavors, Kook will occasionally play around with some seasonal or “just for fun” featured dumplings. Some past flavors have included Broccoli Cheddar as well Buffalo Chicken. I’m still grumpy that I missed these.

If you are interested in catering or getting involved in the dumpling making process, Grumpy Dumplings is happy to do private events, parties, and cooking classes.

And if you’re wondering why these delicious morsels are call “Grumpy” Dumplings, Joc’s husband was in a bad mood one night while making said dumplings and she said “you’re a real grump dumpling tonight.” The rest is history. 

To order your Grumpy Dumplings, go to their brand new web site here. They deliver within 20 miles of Norwalk OR you can pick them up at Wilton, Trumbull or New Canaan Farmers' Markets. You can also find them on Instagram.