TOPAI - Coconut milk dumplings
TOPAI - Coconut milk dumplings is a easy Tongan recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Polyvegan Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 25 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 50 min
Cost: $11.89 total, $2.97 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 1 cup Water (room temperature, for dough)
- 1 cup Frozen Grated Coconut (thawed slightly; Asian market or specialty grocery)
- 2 tablespoons Pure Cane Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 cup Soy Milk (helps cut richness; unsweetened)
- 1 cup Coconut Milk (full‑fat for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 cup Shredded Coconut (for garnish, adds texture)
Instructions
Gather and Measure Ingredients
Measure all dry and liquid ingredients, thaw the frozen grated coconut, and have a paper towel ready for the dough to rest.
Time: PT5M
Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add water gradually while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Then fold in the thawed grated coconut.
Time: PT10M
Knead and Rest the Dough
Turn the dough onto a clean surface and knead gently for 1–2 minutes until it feels smooth yet slightly crumbly. Cover with a wet paper towel and let rest for 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Shape the Dumplings
Pinch off small portions (about 1‑inch diameter) and roll them between your palms into smooth balls. Place the balls on a plate; they should not stick to your fingers.
Time: PT10M
Boil the Dumplings
Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Gently drop the dumplings in, stirring immediately to prevent sticking. Boil until the dumplings rise to the surface, about 8‑10 minutes.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 100°C
Drain and Add Coconut Milk
Using a slotted spoon, remove most of the cooking water, leaving about 1 cup in the pot. Stir in shredded coconut, soy milk, and coconut milk.
Time: PT2M
Simmer the Final Broth
Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil and simmer for 3‑4 minutes until the broth thickens slightly and the dumplings are fully cooked.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: 95°C
Serve
Ladle the warm dopai into bowls, sprinkle any remaining shredded coconut on top, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 4 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Dairy‑Free, Contains Gluten
Allergens: Coconut, Soy
Last updated: April 17, 2026








