Air Fryer Frozen Dumplings: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy dumplings without the hassle of oil splatter. The air fryer's ability to cook dumplings from frozen without thawing them first makes it a convenient option for a fast meal or snack. The cooking time varies depending on the size of the dumplings and the air fryer model, but generally, it takes around 8 to 15 minutes to cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer. The key to getting crispy dumplings is to spray them with oil and ensure they are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, allowing hot air to circulate and crisp up all sides evenly.

Air fryer temperature and time

The temperature and time for cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer depend on the type of dumplings, the size of the dumplings, and the number of dumplings being cooked.

For cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer, the temperature should be set between 350 °F and 400 °F. The dumplings should be cooked for 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the size and number of dumplings. For a smaller number of dumplings, they should be cooked for a shorter time. It is important to note that the air fryer should not be overcrowded, and there should be space between each dumpling for the hot air to circulate and crisp all sides.

For example, one source recommends cooking frozen dumplings at 356 °F (180 °C) for a total of 9 to 10 minutes. First, heat the dumplings for 5 minutes, then rotate them and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. Another source recommends cooking frozen dumplings at 360 °F for a total of 13 minutes. First, cook the dumplings for 8 minutes, then turn each dumpling over and cook for another 5 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of dumpling. To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to flip or rotate the dumplings halfway through the cooking process. Additionally, spraying the dumplings with oil before cooking will help to crisp the exterior and prevent them from drying out.

Oil types and application

Oil Types:

• Neutral Oils: Neutral-tasting oils with high smoke points, such as avocado oil, rapeseed oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil, are ideal for air-frying dumplings. These oils allow the flavors of the dumplings to shine through without overpowering them.
• Other Options: Olive oil is a versatile option that can also be used, though it has a more distinct flavor. Additionally, sesame oil is another choice, especially if you want to impart a nutty aroma to your dumplings.

Application:

• Spray or Brush: The most common method is to use an oil sprayer, such as an EVO Oil Mister, to evenly coat the dumplings before placing them in the air fryer. Alternatively, you can brush the oil onto the dumplings with a pastry brush or similar tool.
• Drizzle or Dip: For a more intense flavor, you can drizzle garlic chili oil or dip the cooked dumplings in it. This adds a punch of flavor to your dish.
• Water and Oil: To achieve a crispy and tender texture, some people add a small amount of water along with the oil to the bottom of the air fryer basket. This creates a steaming effect, ensuring the dumplings are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
• Preheating and Basket Preparation: Preheating your air fryer and lightly brushing or spraying the air fryer basket with oil can also help prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Remember, the amount of oil used should be minimal, as air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. Additionally, always refer to the specific recipe you are following for precise instructions on oil type, quantity, and application method.

Dumpling types

Dumplings are a broad category of dishes that consist of pieces of dough, made from a variety of starch sources, wrapped around a filling, or simply dough with no filling. They are found in many world cuisines and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including baking, boiling, frying, simmering, or steaming.

Pierogies are a type of dumpling commonly associated with Polish cuisine. They are usually filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat and can be served boiled, fried, or baked.

Samosas are a popular Indian snack, often filled with ingredients like potatoes, peas, paneer, or keema (minced meat). Samosas are typically fried and served with chutney.

Ravioli is an Italian dumpling variety, typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. They are usually served boiled and topped with sauce.

Xiao long bao are Chinese dumplings known for their soup-filled centres. They are often steamed, resulting in a gelatinous wrapper that transforms into a savoury soup.

Har gow is another type of Chinese dumpling, known for its delicate, translucent wrapper made from tapioca and wheat starch. The filling is typically a light pink shrimp seasoned with oyster sauce, white pepper, and ginger.

Jiaozi are versatile Chinese dumplings that can be filled with pork and various seasonings like ginger and scallions. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, or pan-frying.

Empanadas are hand pies with Spanish origins but are now more commonly associated with South and Central American cuisine. They can be filled with meat, cheese, or corn and are typically baked or deep-fried, resulting in a crunchy crust and soft filling.

Germknödel is an Austrian dumpling variety, often filled with plum preserves (powidl) and spiced with cinnamon and cloves. They can be boiled or steamed and are commonly served for lunch or dinner, despite their sweet dessert-like nature.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of dumplings found around the world, each with its unique ingredients, cooking methods, and cultural significance.

Dipping sauce recipes

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to get dumplings with a crispy exterior and a juicy, hot filling. This method works for frozen potstickers, gyoza, and wontons as well.

Now, onto the dipping sauce recipes to take your dumplings to the next level:

Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil

A simple yet classic combination is soy sauce and sesame oil. You can eyeball the quantities and adjust to your taste preferences. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavour.

Spicy Soy Sauce

For a spicy kick, you can whisk together soy sauce, water, maple syrup, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Add some sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.

Habanero Salsa

If you're feeling adventurous, try dipping your dumplings in habanero salsa, especially if you have pork dumplings. It will add a nice kick of heat and a burst of flavour.

Tips for the Perfect Air-Fried Dumplings:

• Place the frozen dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch or stack, so the hot air can circulate evenly.
• Generously spray the dumplings with oil to get that desired crispy texture. You can use an EVO oil sprayer or a mister.
• Air fry at 360°F to 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If you want them crispier, air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
• Remove the dumplings from the basket and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Enjoy experimenting with these dipping sauces and happy air frying!

Air fryer basket alternatives

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer! Many people have found that cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer gives them a nice crispy outside while the filling stays juicy and hot.

Now, onto the topic of air fryer basket alternatives. If you're looking for an alternative to the air fryer basket, one option is to use an oven air fryer basket. These baskets are designed to fit into your oven and provide similar benefits to an air fryer, such as allowing hot air to circulate around your food for more even cooking and better crisping. They are typically made of stainless steel and are dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean.

Another alternative is to use the metal insert that comes with your air fryer, if available. Some people have reported success with this method, spraying the insert with cooking spray and fitting just as much food as they would in the air fryer basket.

If you're concerned about the potential health risks associated with non-stick coatings breaking down and releasing toxins, you might consider switching to an air fryer that doesn't use PFAS in its cooking surface, such as the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1. This air fryer features a spacious 5-quart basket that can handle up to 4 lbs of food, and it doesn't compromise your health or break the bank.

Additionally, when using your air fryer, it's important to avoid using harsh sponges or metal utensils that can damage the coating and expose you to toxins. Light commercial oil sprays should also be avoided as they can break down the coating over time.

Frequently asked questions