Air-Fryer Soup Dumplings: A Tasty, Quick Treat?

Air fryers have become extremely popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. One delicious dish that can be made in an air fryer is dumplings. Including soup dumplings. Whether you are making homemade dumplings or reheating store-bought ones, using an air fryer can give them a crispy and golden texture. However, it is important to know the right cooking time to ensure that your dumplings are cooked to perfection.

How to cook soup dumplings in an air fryer

Pre-cooking preparations

Before you start cooking your dumplings, it is important to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This usually takes around 3-5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, prepare your dumplings. You can use either homemade or store-bought dumplings. If using frozen dumplings, make sure to thaw them first.

Cooking the dumplings

Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch. Brush or spray the dumplings with oil. This will help them achieve a crispy texture. Then, place them in the air fryer and cook for around 8-10 minutes.

Checking for doneness

To ensure your dumplings are cooked thoroughly, cut open one dumpling and check that the filling is hot and cooked through, and that the wrapper is crispy and golden brown. If they need more time, put them back in the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Tips for cooking dumplings in an air fryer

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between dumplings so that hot air can circulate and cook them evenly.
• Brush the dumplings with a little oil before cooking to help them achieve a crispy texture.
• Experiment with different flavours! Add herbs, spices, or a dipping sauce to enhance the taste of your dumplings.
• Use parchment paper or a non-stick spray to line the air fryer basket and prevent the dumplings from sticking.

Final thoughts

Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of dumplings you are using. Enjoy your crispy, golden soup dumplings!

Tips for making crispy soup dumplings in an air fryer

Making crispy soup dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook your dumplings. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

Use frozen dumplings

You can use any type of frozen dumplings, such as gyoza, potstickers, mandu, or wontons. Using frozen dumplings means there is no need to thaw them first, which saves time and reduces the risk of them becoming soggy.

Prepare the air fryer

There is no need to preheat the air fryer. Start by adding a small amount of water to the base of the air fryer to prevent the dumplings from drying out. Then, distribute the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each dumpling to allow for even cooking.

Oil the dumplings

Brush or spray the dumplings generously with oil. This will help them to crisp up and turn golden brown. Avocado oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are recommended due to their high smoke point.

Cook at the right temperature

The ideal temperature for cooking dumplings in an air fryer is around 360-375°F (180-190°C). At this temperature, the dumplings will cook through without burning the wrapper.

Cook in batches if necessary

Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the dumplings in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.

Flip the dumplings

For even cooking and browning, flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking process.

Serve with a dipping sauce

Dumplings are often served with a dipping sauce. You can make a simple sauce by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional chili flakes.

Storage and reheating

Dumplings are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, allow them to cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 360°F (180°C).

How long to cook soup dumplings in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook soup dumplings in an air fryer! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Dumplings

If you are using frozen dumplings, it is recommended to thaw them first for about 10 minutes to remove any freezer-burned edges. This will make the edges softer and crispier after cooking. However, some sources suggest that you can cook frozen dumplings directly from the freezer without thawing them.

Brush or spray the dumplings generously with oil. This step is crucial to achieving perfectly fried dumplings in an air fryer. Make sure to coat all sides and folds of the dumplings. You can use various types of oil, such as avocado oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature for dumplings, typically around 375°F (190°C). Preheating usually takes around 3-5 minutes, but it may vary depending on your air fryer model. Preheating ensures that the cooking process starts immediately and helps the dumplings cook evenly.

Step 3: Arrange the Dumplings in the Air Fryer Basket

While the air fryer is preheating, arrange the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Do not overcrowd the basket as it is important for hot air to circulate and cook the dumplings evenly. If you have a large batch of dumplings, cook them in multiple batches.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the dumplings in the basket and cook them for 8-10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of dumplings, so it is important to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking or undercooking. You can use tongs to flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking process for even browning.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To ensure that the dumplings are thoroughly cooked, cut open one dumpling to check that the filling is hot and cooked through. The dumpling wrapper should be crispy and golden brown. If the dumplings need more time, put them back in the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Cooking Soup Dumplings in an Air Fryer:

• Experiment with different flavors: Add herbs, spices, or dipping sauces to enhance the taste of your dumplings.
• Use parchment paper or a non-stick spray: Lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper or using a non-stick cooking spray can prevent the dumplings from sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Cook the dumplings in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Try different types of dumplings: You can use various types of dumplings in the air fryer, such as pork, chicken, or vegetarian options.

What temperature to cook soup dumplings in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook soup dumplings in an air fryer! Here are the steps to follow:

Preparing the Air Fryer and Dumplings:

First, preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 380°F. While the air fryer heats up, you can prepare your dumplings. Lightly brush or spray the dumplings with oil—this step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can use any oil, but oils with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, are recommended. Make sure to get a thin layer of oil on all surfaces of the dumplings.

Cooking the Dumplings:

Once your dumplings are oiled, place them into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not stacked or touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the dumplings in batches. Set the air fryer temperature to 360°F to 380°F and cook for 8 to 12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, remove the basket and shake it to ensure even cooking.

Checking for Doneness:

After the timer goes off, check the dumplings' crispiness and firmness to ensure they are fully cooked. Carefully take out one dumpling, cut it open, and check if the filling is hot and cooked through. If the filling is still cold, put the dumpling back in the air fryer and cook for a few more minutes. If the exterior is not yet crispy enough, continue cooking for another minute or two until it reaches your desired level of crispness.

Serving the Dumplings:

Let the dumplings cool down for a few minutes before serving to avoid any accidents. Also, be mindful of the hot air that will escape when you open the air fryer. Wait a few seconds for the steam to dissipate before removing the dumplings. Serve your dumplings with your favourite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, chili oil, vinegar, or a combination of these. Enjoy!

Can you cook frozen soup dumplings in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen soup dumplings in an air fryer. It is a convenient and quick way to cook frozen dumplings without the mess and danger of oil splatter.

To cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer, start by adding a small amount of water to the base of the air fryer. This will create steam and prevent the dumplings from drying out. Then, place the frozen dumplings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer with space between each dumpling. Spray the dumplings with oil and heat for 5 minutes at 360°F (180°C). Rotate the dumplings and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes at the same temperature. The dumplings are ready when they are golden brown.

You can also make a dipping sauce to accompany your dumplings. A simple combination of soy sauce and sesame oil with some toasted sesame seeds is a great option.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your dumplings and the model of your air fryer. Always ensure that there is enough space between the dumplings for the hot air to circulate and create a crispy exterior.

Frequently asked questions