Air-Fryer Dumplings: A Quick, Easy, And Tasty Treat

Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy dumplings without the hassle of oil splatter. You can use this technique with any store-bought or homemade dumpling, fresh or frozen. The air fryer method is also a safer option than pan-frying, as it has a built-in timer that prevents overcooking or burning. However, dumplings cooked in an air fryer may be drier than those cooked in a pan with water, and the texture may vary depending on the type of dumpling and dough used.

Air fryer temperature and time for cooking dumplings

Air fryers are a great way to cook dumplings with minimal supervision and a reduced risk of burning. They also require less oil, which means less mess and less clean-up. The ideal temperature and time for cooking dumplings in an air fryer will depend on whether they are fresh or frozen, and whether you want them to be crispy.

If you are cooking fresh dumplings in an air fryer, it is recommended to cook them at 400°F/200°C for 10-12 minutes. If you want your dumplings to be crispy, you can increase the temperature to 400°F/200°C and cook them for 10-14 minutes.

If you are cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer, it is recommended to cook them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. If you want your dumplings to be crispier, you can cook them for an additional 2 minutes. Alternatively, you can cook frozen dumplings at 370°F for 9-11 minutes, flipping them halfway through. For a higher temperature of 400°F/200°C, cook frozen dumplings for 12-14 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and number of dumplings, as well as the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to do a test run with 1-2 dumplings and adjust the temperature and duration as needed.

How to prevent dumplings from drying out in the air fryer

Dumplings are a versatile dish that can be boiled, steamed, or fried. While air-fried dumplings are generally considered healthier than their traditionally fried counterparts, they can sometimes turn out dry. Here are some tips to prevent your dumplings from drying out in the air fryer:

Choose the Right Type of Dumplings

The type of dumpling and dough used can impact the final texture when cooked in an air fryer. Look for thin, pliable wrappers that can withstand air frying without drying out. For example, Costco's Bibigo chicken dumplings are known to have a thin dough that works well in the air fryer.

Oil the Dumplings

Coating the dumplings with oil is crucial to preventing them from drying out. You can brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil. If you don't have a pastry brush or oil spray, you can oil your hands and rub the dumplings to coat them evenly.

Add Moisture

To add moisture to the cooking process, sprinkle the dumplings with a small amount of water using a flicking motion. You can also pour some water into the base of the air fryer basket to create a steam effect, similar to the traditional pan-frying method.

Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature

Keep an eye on your dumplings while they're in the air fryer, as overcooking can lead to dryness. Adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the size and thickness of your dumplings. Check for doneness periodically, especially after the 8-minute mark, and continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments if needed.

Flip and Shake

Flipping the dumplings halfway through the cooking process can help ensure even cooking and prevent them from drying out on one side. Shaking the air fryer basket halfway through will also help prevent the dumplings from sticking together and promote consistent crispiness.

The best types of dumplings to cook in an air fryer

Air-frying is a great way to cook dumplings, whether they are store-bought or homemade, fresh or frozen. It's a hands-free, quick, and simple method that gives you crunchy dumplings without the hassle of oil splatter.

The best dumplings to cook in an air fryer are those with thin dough, such as the Costco Bibigo chicken dumplings, or dumplings with a thicker dough like potstickers, gyoza, or wontons. The type of dumpling you choose will impact the cooking method and time, so it's important to be mindful of that. For example, dumplings with thicker dough may require a longer cooking time and might benefit from being boiled or steamed before air frying to prevent them from drying out. On the other hand, dumplings with thinner dough, like gyoza, can be cooked directly in the air fryer without pre-cooking.

To cook dumplings in an air fryer, the general method is to place them in the air fryer basket with some space between each dumpling to ensure even cooking. Brush or spray the dumplings with oil, and then air fry. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size of your dumplings and your air fryer model, but on average, dumplings take around 8-10 minutes to cook at temperatures between 350°F and 400°F. If you want crispier dumplings, you can air fry them for an additional 2 minutes.

Some people also recommend adding a small amount of water to the air fryer to create steam and prevent the dumplings from drying out. However, others have found that this method does not provide enough steam to effectively cook the dumplings and can make them soggy. It is recommended to experiment with different methods and temperatures to find the best results for your specific dumplings and air fryer.

Oil splatter when cooking dumplings in an air fryer

Oil splatter is a common problem when cooking dumplings in a pan. However, you can avoid this issue by using an air fryer. Since you're cooking the dumplings in an enclosed space, you don't have to worry about oil splattering everywhere. This makes the air fryer a cleaner and more convenient option for cooking dumplings.

When cooking dumplings in an air fryer, it's important to coat them with oil to get that crispy texture. You can brush the oil on with a pastry brush, or use an oil spray to ensure all sides are coated. Some people even add a bit of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket so that the dumplings steam and crisp up simultaneously. This can help prevent them from drying out, which is a common issue with air-fried dumplings.

To cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer, place them in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each dumpling to allow for even cooking. Spray or brush the dumplings with oil and air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes. If you want them crispier, shake the basket and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.

For fresh dumplings, the cooking time will be slightly longer. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Again, you can add a bit of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket to create a steaming effect and help the dumplings crisp up.

Using an air fryer to cook dumplings is a great option if you want to avoid the mess and hassle of oil splatter. With this method, you can enjoy crispy, tender dumplings without the worry of oil splattering all over your kitchen.

How to cook dumplings in an air fryer without steaming them

You can cook dumplings in an air fryer without steaming them, and it's super easy! You can use this technique with any store-bought or homemade dumpling, fresh or frozen.

First, place the dumplings in your air fryer basket. Space them apart so there’s about a 1/4 to 1/2-inch (1 cm) of room or so between them. If you're using frozen dumplings, don't thaw them before cooking.

Next, spray or brush the dumplings on all sides with a thin coat of oil. You can use an oil spray to make things easier, or you can use your hands to rub the oil on. Make sure the dumplings are thoroughly and completely coated.

Now you're ready to cook your dumplings! Air fry the dumplings for 8 minutes at 375°F. If you want crispier dumplings, shake the basket and continue to air fry for another 2 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your dumplings and your air fryer model, so you may need to experiment a little.

And that's it! You now have delicious, crispy dumplings without the hassle of steaming them. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions