Steaming Dumplings In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

You can cook dumplings in an air fryer, and they will come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. However, if you're looking for a way to steam dumplings in an air fryer, it is possible but not recommended. One source suggests that the machine is too well-ventilated to effectively steam dumplings, and they will dry out. Another source recommends using a pizza pan, a bamboo steamer, and a grill pan inside the air fryer to steam dumplings.

Air fryer dumplings can be crispy and tender

Air fryer dumplings are an excellent option for a quick meal or snack. They are easy to make and only require a few simple ingredients. The best part is that you can cook them straight from frozen, with no need for thawing. This method works for various types of dumplings, including potstickers, gyoza, wontons, and more.

How to Cook Crispy and Tender Dumplings in an Air Fryer

To achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, follow these simple steps:

• Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, which can range from 320°F to 400°F, depending on your preference and the model of your air fryer.
• Add Water and Oil: Place a small amount of water in the base of the air fryer basket to create steam and help prevent the dumplings from drying out. Then, add a thin coat of oil to the dumplings. You can brush or spray the oil onto the dumplings or use oiled hands to coat them.
• Arrange the Dumplings: Place the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a small gap between each dumpling to allow for even cooking.
• Cooking Time: Cook the dumplings for 8-14 minutes, depending on their size and whether they are fresh or frozen. For example, smaller fresh dumplings may only need 8-10 minutes, while larger frozen dumplings might require the full 14 minutes.
• Flip and Rotate: Halfway through the cooking time, flip the dumplings to ensure even cooking and browning. You may also need to rotate the dumplings if your air fryer doesn't evenly distribute heat.
• Cool and Serve: Once the dumplings are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Tips for Crispy and Tender Dumplings

• Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers cook by circulating hot air, so ensure there is enough space between each dumpling for the hot air to circulate effectively. You may need to cook the dumplings in batches.
• Use a Dipping Sauce: Serve your dumplings with a complementary dipping sauce to enhance their flavor. Try combining grated ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lemon juice for a delicious dip.
• Monitor the Dumplings: Keep a close eye on the dumplings, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to avoid burning or overcooking them.
• Experiment with Different Types of Dumplings: You can use this cooking method for various types of dumplings, including Japanese gyoza, Korean mandu, Chinese dumplings, or potstickers. Experiment with different flavors and fillings to find your favorites.

You can use store-bought or homemade dumplings

The technique works for Japanese gyoza, Korean mandu, Chinese dumplings, potstickers, or wontons. You can fill your dumplings with pork, chicken, beef, or seafood—whatever you prefer.

To cook, place the dumplings in your air fryer basket, leaving a small gap between each one. Brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil, or rub them with oiled hands. Then, sprinkle the dumplings with water, or pour water into the base of the air fryer.

Air fry at 400°F/200°C for 10-12 minutes for fresh dumplings, or 12-14 minutes for frozen dumplings. You may want to adjust the timing depending on the size of your dumplings and your air fryer.

You can use any type of oil

You can use cooking spray, canola oil, olive oil, or neutral-tasting oils like rapeseed or avocado. If you want the flavour of the dumplings to shine through, opt for a more neutral-tasting oil.

You don't need to defrost dumplings before air frying

Air frying is a great way to cook dumplings, offering a new kind of crispy texture. It is also a convenient method, requiring very little supervision and no flipping of the dumplings. You can also avoid the oil splatter that comes with pan-frying.

To cook dumplings in an air fryer, simply place them in the air fryer basket, spaced about a 1/4 to 1/2 inch apart. Brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil and sprinkle with water. Then, air fry at 400°F/200°C for 10-14 minutes, depending on whether your dumplings are fresh or frozen.

You can reheat dumplings in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat dumplings in an air fryer. If you want to reheat dumplings without making them crispy, 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 or until hot.

If you want your dumplings to be crispy, put them in a grill pan and heat in a preheated air fryer at 400°F/200°C for 5-6 minutes. You can also reheat dumplings in the microwave, but they may dry out.

When reheating dumplings in an air fryer, it is best to use frozen dumplings that haven't been thawed first.

Frequently asked questions