Air-Fryer Potstickers: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Cooking potstickers in an air fryer is a convenient and tasty way to prepare this dish. Potstickers, also known as gyoza or dumplings, are a popular food that can be boiled, steamed, or fried. Air fryers are a great way to cook potstickers as they use hot air to cook food, meaning the potstickers will not become soggy or wet. Preparing potstickers in an air fryer is also a quick and easy process, taking less than 15 minutes.

Air fryer settings and timings

The ideal air fryer settings and timings for cooking potstickers depend on the brand of your air fryer, the size of your dumplings, and whether you are cooking fresh or frozen potstickers.

If you are cooking fresh potstickers, you should cook them for less time than frozen ones. For frozen potstickers, you can cook them straight from the freezer.

Most sources recommend cooking potstickers at 350°F (180°C) for 10–15 minutes. However, one source recommends cooking them at 380°F for 8 minutes, and then at the same temperature for another 2 to 6 minutes. Another source recommends cooking them at 400°F for 5 minutes, and then flipping them if the tops are cooking faster than the bottoms. A further source recommends cooking them at 370°F for 5 minutes.

It is recommended to preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes, although one source says this is not necessary. You should place the potstickers in a single layer in the air fryer basket to prevent them from steaming and becoming soggy. You may need to cook them in batches.

Oil types and application

Oil is an essential component of cooking potstickers in an air fryer, as it helps to achieve the desired crispy texture. The type of oil used can vary depending on personal preference and availability. Here are some commonly used oils and their application methods:

• Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is a versatile option that is widely available. It has a neutral flavour and a high smoke point, making it suitable for air frying. You can brush it on the potstickers or use an oil mister/sprayer to lightly coat them.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy and flavourful option. Its distinct taste can enhance the overall flavour of the potstickers. Similar to vegetable oil, you can brush it on or use an oil mister/sprayer.
• Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is known for its high smoke point and neutral flavour. It is suitable for air frying due to its ability to withstand high temperatures without smoking. Avocado oil spray can be used to coat the potstickers and the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle sweetness to the potstickers. It has a relatively high smoke point and a solid form at room temperature, so it needs to be melted before use. You can brush it on or use a spray if available.
• Canola Oil: Canola oil, also known as rapeseed oil, has a neutral flavour and a high smoke point, making it a good choice for air frying. It can be applied in the same way as other oils, depending on your preference.

When applying oil to the potstickers, it is important to ensure they are evenly coated. This can be done by brushing the oil directly onto the potstickers or using an oil mister/sprayer. Additionally, it is recommended to lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. The amount of oil used may vary depending on personal preference, but it is important to use enough to prevent the potstickers from drying out during cooking.

Frozen vs fresh potstickers

Potstickers are a type of Asian dumpling that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, pan-frying, and air frying. They can be made from scratch or bought pre-made from the supermarket, either fresh or frozen.

Frozen Potstickers

Frozen potstickers are a convenient option for those who want a quick and easy meal or snack. They can be purchased from most supermarkets and come in a variety of flavours and fillings, such as chicken and vegetables. Frozen potstickers can be cooked in an air fryer in a matter of minutes, making them a convenient option for those short on time.

To cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer, it is recommended to first coat them in oil and then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness. The temperature should be set to between 350-400°F and cooked for around 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of the potstickers and the desired level of doneness. It is important to note that different air fryers may vary in cooking time and temperature, so it may take some experimentation to find the perfect settings for your particular air fryer.

Fresh Potstickers

Fresh potstickers can be purchased from local restaurants or made from scratch at home. Making fresh potstickers can be a tedious process, as it involves preparing the filling and wrapping the dumplings by hand. However, the benefit of making them from scratch is that you can customise the fillings to your liking and ensure the ingredients are fresh and of high quality.

When cooking fresh potstickers in an air fryer, the cook time will be much lower than for frozen potstickers, as they will not need to be thawed or heated through. Fresh potstickers can be cooked using the same method as frozen potstickers, but the cooking time will be reduced to just a few minutes.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover air-fried potstickers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer until they are heated through. It is not recommended to freeze leftover potstickers, as this can alter the texture of the wrapper.

Dipping sauces

There are many dipping sauces that you can serve with your air-fried potstickers. Here are some ideas:

Amai Sauce

This sweet and tangy Japanese sauce is often used as a dipping sauce for fried foods.

Sriracha Aioli

A popular hot chilli sauce, sriracha aioli can be used as a condiment or dipping sauce when mixed with garlic mayo.

Sweet Chilli Sauce

A thick, sweet, and slightly spicy Asian-style chilli sauce, sweet chilli sauce is a popular choice for potstickers.

Plum Sauce

A thick, sweet, and slightly sour sauce that is popular in Chinese cuisine, plum sauce will add a unique flavour to your potstickers.

Soy Sauce

A classic condiment, soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans and wheat. It is savoury and salty, making it a perfect pairing with the crispy and tender potstickers.

Gyoza Sauce

A thin, flavourful Japanese sauce, gyoza sauce is another great option for dipping your potstickers.

Spicy Mustard

A great choice if you're looking for something with a kick, spicy mustard can be served alongside soy sauce and sweet chilli sauce.

Spicy Peanut Sauce

For a nutty, spicy, and savoury option, try a spicy peanut sauce.

Ponzu Sauce

Tangy ponzu sauce can provide a unique twist, complementing the flavours of the potstickers while adding a bit of zing.

Rice Vinegar and Sesame Oil

For a simple yet effective dipping sauce, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Feel free to add chilli oil or a bit of crushed garlic for an extra kick.

Storing leftovers

If you have any leftover potstickers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat them, simply pop them back into the air fryer!

It is not recommended to freeze leftover potstickers, as the texture of the wrapper will change.

Frequently asked questions