Steaming Dumplings: Air Fryer Magic

Yes, you can steam dumplings in an air fryer! This method works for frozen dumplings, potstickers, gyoza, and wontons. It is also possible to steam dumplings from scratch, but you will need to cook the filling first. To steam dumplings in an air fryer, you will need to preheat your air fryer, add boiling water to a pizza pan, put a bamboo steamer with the dumplings on top of the pizza pan, and then place the pizza pan with the bamboo steamer into the air fryer.

How to steam frozen dumplings in an air fryer

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Frozen dumplings
• Oil spray
• Pizza pan
• Bamboo steamer
• Parchment paper
• Boiling water
• Grill pan
• Aluminium foil
• Soy sauce (optional)
• Thai sweet chilli sauce (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/200°C for 5 minutes.
• Boil some water in a kettle or pot.
• Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper.
• Put the boiling water in a pizza pan, then place the bamboo steamer on top.
• Add the frozen dumplings to the bamboo steamer and cover with aluminium foil.
• Place the pizza pan with the bamboo steamer on a grill pan and put it in the air fryer.
• Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes if they are thawed, or 10-12 minutes if frozen.
• Remove the foil and take the bamboo steamer out of the air fryer. Serve immediately.

Tips:

• You can use any type of frozen dumplings, such as gyoza, wontons, or potstickers.
• Do not put the original bamboo lid on top of the steamer, as it may get burned by the air fryer's heating element.
• It is easier to put the pizza pan and bamboo steamer inside the air fryer using a grill pan, as it has low sides.
• You can also reheat leftover dumplings in the air fryer. For soft dumplings, put them in a bamboo steamer on top of a pizza pan filled with boiling water, wrap the steamer with foil, and heat for 5-6 minutes. For crispy dumplings, put them in a grill pan and heat in a preheated air fryer at 400°F for 5-6 minutes.

Tips for making the best air fryer dumplings

Air fryer dumplings are a quick, easy, and delicious snack or meal. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results:

Use the right type of dumplings

The air fryer works best for dumplings that are supposed to be crispy, such as potstickers or gyozas. You can use fresh, frozen, or thawed dumplings, but it's important to note that cooking times will vary depending on the size and thickness of your dumplings.

Preheat your air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually between 350°F and 400°F, for about 5 minutes. This will help shorten the cook time and ensure more even results.

Prepare the dumplings

Brush or spray the air fryer basket with a small amount of oil. Then, place the dumplings in a single layer, leaving space between each dumpling for the hot air to circulate. Do not stack the dumplings, as they will stick together. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cook in batches.

Cook the dumplings

Air fry the dumplings for the recommended time, usually between 8-10 minutes for frozen dumplings and 4-6 minutes for fresh or thawed dumplings. Flip the dumplings halfway through cooking and add more oil if needed to prevent them from drying out.

Serve immediately

Air fryer dumplings are best served fresh and crispy, so be sure to serve them immediately after cooking. You can also prepare a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce, to enjoy with your dumplings.

How to make a dipping sauce for dumplings

Making a dipping sauce for dumplings is easy and only takes a few minutes. You can make a simple sauce with just soy sauce and sesame oil, or get more creative with additional ingredients. Here are some ideas for how to make a delicious dipping sauce for your dumplings:

Simple Dumpling Dipping Sauce Ideas:

• Soy sauce and sesame oil
• Soy sauce, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds
• Sweet and sour sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Peanut dip
• Low-sodium soy sauce with crushed ginger
• BBQ sauce
• Hot sauce
• Sriracha mayo (mix mayo with sriracha)

More Complex Dumpling Dipping Sauce Ideas:

• Soy sauce, rice vinegar, chilli oil, minced garlic, toasted sesame seeds, sesame oil, and sugar dissolved in hot water
• Minced garlic, green onions, soy sauce, Chinkiang vinegar, and chilli oil
• Ginger, vinegar, and honey
• Minced garlic, ground Sichuan pepper, hot oil, light soy sauce, black rice vinegar, fresh chilli, and coriander
• Spring onion, hot oil, light soy sauce, and black rice vinegar
• Spicy tomato dip: tomatoes, fresh chilli, coriander, light soy sauce, and salt
• Sichuan spiced sweet soy sauce, minced garlic, homemade chilli oil, and spring onion
• Hot and sour soup: light soy sauce, black rice vinegar, spring onion, papery dried shrimp, sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, coriander, and homemade chilli oil

How to reheat dumplings in an air fryer

If you have leftover dumplings, you can reheat them in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare your air fryer and dumplings

Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F (180-200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your dumplings. If they are frozen, there is no need to thaw them first. Place the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a grill pan, leaving space between each dumpling so the hot air can circulate. Do not stack them. If you are reheating a large batch, you may need to cook them in batches.

Step 2: Add oil

Lightly spray or brush the dumplings with oil. This will help to crisp up the dumplings and prevent them from drying out. Make sure to coat them evenly.

Step 3: Reheat the dumplings

Place the air fryer basket or grill pan into the air fryer and reheat the dumplings for 5-6 minutes. If you want your dumplings to be crispy, you can increase the time to 8 minutes. For softer dumplings, put them in a bamboo steamer on top of a pizza pan filled with boiling water and wrap the steamer with foil before placing it in the air fryer.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the dumplings from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy!

How to prevent dumplings from drying out in the air fryer

Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to create crispy textures without the need for excessive oil. While this cooking method is excellent for creating crispy dumplings, it can also lead to dryness if not properly executed. Here are some tips to prevent your dumplings from drying out in the air fryer:

Use Oil:

• Brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will help create a crispy texture and prevent them from drying out. You can use a pastry brush, oil spray, or even rub the oil onto the dumplings with your hands.
• Some sources recommend using a light spray of oil or brushing each dumpling with oil to ensure even coverage. This step may be tedious, but it can help prevent dryness and promote browning.

Add Water:

• During the cooking process, add a small amount of water to the air fryer, using a flicking motion with your fingers. This will create steam and help prevent the dumplings from drying out. Alternatively, you can place the dumplings in a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper, cover it with aluminum foil, and put it over boiling water in a pizza pan inside the air fryer.
• If you choose to add water directly to the air fryer, be sure to use boiling water to speed up the cooking process.

Cook at the Right Temperature:

The ideal cooking temperature for dumplings in an air fryer is typically around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Cooking at a lower temperature may not be sufficient to crisp up the dumplings, while a higher temperature may brown the exterior too quickly.

Cook in Batches:

If you're cooking a large batch of dumplings, consider cooking them in batches to prevent overcrowding. This will ensure even cooking and help maintain the desired crispy texture.

Don't Overcrowd:

Leave enough space between each dumpling to allow for proper air circulation. This will prevent uneven cooking and ensure that the hot air can reach all sides of the dumplings.

Adjust Cooking Time:

The cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of dumpling, as well as your air fryer model. Start with a shorter cooking time and adjust as needed. Check the dumplings regularly to prevent overcooking and dryness.

Use a Meat Thermometer:

If your dumplings contain meat, use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This will help ensure that the filling is cooked through and prevent overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

Reheat Properly:

If you have leftover dumplings, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, use a steamer, the air fryer, or the oven, but avoid the microwave as it can dry out the dumplings.

Frequently asked questions