Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Making frozen potstickers in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a tasty snack or meal on the table in minutes. It's simple: brush or spray the potstickers with oil, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook at around 370–380°F for 8–11 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You can serve them with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce, sweet and sour, or sweet chili sauce.

How to prepare the air fryer basket

Preparing the air fryer basket is a crucial step in ensuring your potstickers cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the air fryer basket for cooking frozen potstickers:

Firstly, it is important to ensure that your air fryer basket is clean and dry before you begin. If there are any food remnants or grease left from previous cooking, give the basket a quick wash and dry it thoroughly.

Next, you will need to lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil. You can do this by brushing or spraying oil onto the basket. Using an oil mister or spray is a convenient way to ensure an even coating. This step is important as it helps prevent the potstickers from sticking to the basket and promotes even cooking.

Once the basket is lightly coated with oil, it's time to arrange the potstickers. Place the frozen potstickers in a single layer inside the basket, ensuring they do not overlap or stack. This arrangement allows proper airflow and even cooking. Make sure to leave some space between each potsticker for the hot air to circulate.

If your air fryer basket is large enough, you may need to cook the potstickers in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and soggy potstickers.

Finally, before placing the basket in the air fryer, give it a gentle shake to ensure the potstickers are securely in place and won't shift during cooking.

By following these steps, you will have a well-prepared air fryer basket that is ready for cooking your frozen potstickers to crispy perfection!

Air fryer temperature and time

The ideal temperature and time for cooking frozen potstickers in an air fryer vary depending on the desired level of crispiness and the size of the dumplings. However, the general consensus is that cooking frozen potstickers at temperatures between 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 9-11 minutes yields the best results.

For example, one source recommends preheating your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and cooking the potstickers for a total of 9-11 minutes, flipping them halfway through and adding more oil if needed. Another source suggests cooking the potstickers at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes, shaking the basket, and then cooking for an additional 4-6 minutes or until they reach the desired level of crispiness.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your dumplings and the model of your air fryer. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a lower temperature and shorter cooking time and adjust as needed.

Additionally, when arranging the potstickers in the air fryer basket, ensure that they are in a single layer with space between each dumpling to allow for proper airflow and even cooking.

How to get the perfect crispy texture

To get the perfect crispy texture when making frozen potstickers in an air fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 370-380°F. This is the optimal temperature range to ensure your potstickers become crispy without burning or drying out.

Next, place your frozen potstickers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap or stack. This arrangement allows for even cooking and airflow. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Now, it's time to add some oil. Lightly mist or brush the potstickers with vegetable, avocado, or your preferred oil. This step is crucial, as it helps to achieve that sought-after crispy texture. Make sure to coat them entirely and generously.

Close the air fryer and cook the potstickers for 5 minutes. Then, open the air fryer, shake the basket gently, and, if needed, add a little more oil to the potstickers.

Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. For an extra crispy texture, air fry for an additional 2 minutes at a time until they're done to your liking.

Finally, remove the potstickers from the air fryer and let them sit for about 2 minutes before serving. This resting period ensures the filling stays hot and juicy, while the outside remains nice and crispy.

By following these steps and paying attention to details like oil coating and cooking time, you'll achieve that perfect crispy texture for your frozen potstickers in an air fryer.

Dipping sauces to serve with the potstickers

Yes, you can cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer. They come out crispy on the outside without getting dried out.

There are several dipping sauces that you can serve with your potstickers. Here are some ideas:

• A combination of soy sauce and sesame oil, with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
• A sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sliced green onions, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds.
• Spicy mustard.
• Sweet and sour sauce.
• Sweet chilli sauce.
• Soy sauce.
• A sauce made with chilli sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. You can also add a pinch of sesame oil, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and finely chopped green onions.

Storing and reheating your frozen potstickers

Storing your frozen potstickers correctly is essential to prevent them from drying out or becoming soggy. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your frozen potstickers:

Storing Frozen Potstickers

Before storing your potstickers, it is important to let them cool to room temperature. Then, line an airtight container with paper towels or parchment paper and spread out the potstickers in a single layer. Seal the container tightly and store it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. The paper towels will help absorb any excess moisture, preventing the potsticker wrappers from becoming soggy.

Alternatively, you can freeze your potstickers to extend their shelf life. To do this, place the potstickers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze them for an hour or two until they are hard, then transfer them to a zip-lock freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it tightly. Frozen potstickers will last for 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Frozen Potstickers

There are several methods you can use to reheat your frozen potstickers:

• Pan-frying: Lightly coat a skillet with cooking oil and set it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the potstickers bottom-side down in the pan and fry for 1 to 2 minutes until crispy. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water, and cover the potstickers. Steam for 30 to 60 seconds, then serve.
• Microwave: Spread out the potstickers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 15-second intervals until piping hot, then serve immediately. The damp paper towel helps to lock in moisture and prevent the potstickers from drying out.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place a baking tray inside to warm up. Spread out your potstickers on the tray, crispy side down, and heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a wire rack instead of a baking tray.
• Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and spread out the potstickers in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Heat for 2 to 4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your frozen potstickers multiple times without sacrificing taste or texture!

Frequently asked questions