Air Fryer Potstickers: A Quick, Easy, And Healthy Treat

Potstickers, also known as dumplings, are a delicious appetizer or side dish. While they can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, cooking them in an air fryer is a popular alternative. This method produces a crispy exterior and a tender, warm interior. The air fryer's small size and energy efficiency make it a convenient option, and its use of hot air prevents the potstickers from becoming soggy.

How to prepare your air fryer basket

Preparing your air fryer basket is a crucial step in ensuring your potstickers turn out perfectly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your air fryer basket for cooking potstickers:

Firstly, it is important to ensure your air fryer basket is clean and dry before you begin. If needed, give it a quick wipe with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust or residue.

Next, you will need to coat the basket with a thin layer of oil. This helps to prevent the potstickers from sticking and ensures a crispy exterior. You can use an oil spray or an oil mister for this step. Avocado oil, vegetable oil, or olive oil are all suitable options. Lightly and evenly coat the entire basket, including the sides, with your chosen oil.

Now, it's time to arrange the potstickers in the basket. Place the frozen potstickers in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other or the sides of the basket. This arrangement allows for optimal airflow and even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, you may need to cook the potstickers in batches.

Once the potstickers are arranged, give them a light coating of oil as well. You can use the same oil you used for the basket and apply it with a brush or an oil spray/mister. This step helps to prevent the potstickers from drying out and ensures a crispy exterior.

At this point, your air fryer basket is almost ready! If your air fryer model requires it, preheat it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Preheating helps to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Finally, place the air fryer basket into the air fryer, set the temperature and timer according to your recipe, and let the cooking begin!

By following these steps, you will have perfectly prepared your air fryer basket for cooking delicious, crispy potstickers. Enjoy!

Air frying temperature and duration

The air-frying temperature and duration for potstickers depend on the type of air fryer being used, the brand of potstickers, and the desired level of crispiness.

Most sources recommend preheating the air fryer to between 370-380°F (188-193°C). However, some sources suggest cooking at 400°F for a shorter duration.

For the duration, most sources recommend cooking frozen potstickers for a total of 8-10 minutes at the temperature settings mentioned above. It is important to flip the potstickers halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

If you desire a crispier texture, you can extend the cooking time by 2-minute increments until the desired level of crispiness is achieved.

It is worth noting that different brands of air fryers and potstickers may require adjustments to the temperature and duration. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor the potstickers during the cooking process to prevent overcooking or burning.

Additionally, it is recommended to coat the potstickers with oil before cooking to prevent them from drying out and to enhance crispiness.

The benefits of air frying potstickers

Air-fried potstickers are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this Chinese dumpling favourite. They are a convenient option for a snack, appetizer, side dish, or even a full meal. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer for potstickers:

Quick and Easy

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook potstickers, with most recipes taking under 15 minutes. They are a great option when you are short on time but still want a tasty and satisfying meal.

Perfect Results

Air fryers ensure that your potstickers come out perfectly crispy and golden brown every time. There is no need to worry about burning or ruining them, as you might with traditional pan-frying or steaming methods.

Large Batches

Air fryers allow you to cook multiple potstickers at once, making it easier to feed a large family or group. You can cook a whole batch in one go, rather than frying them in smaller batches on a pan.

Less Mess

Air fryers require minimal cleanup compared to traditional pan-frying, which can leave you with a greasy mess. With an air fryer, you don't have to deal with large amounts of oil, making the post-meal cleanup quicker and easier.

Healthier Option

Air fryers use little to no oil when cooking potstickers, making them a healthier option. Traditional pan-frying methods often require a lot of oil, but with an air fryer, you can still achieve that perfect crispiness without the excess fat and calories.

Variety of Fillings

You can use any variety of frozen potstickers in an air fryer, including chicken, pork, or vegetarian options. You can also find different brands and types, such as gyoza or dumplings, at most grocery stores or Asian markets.

Reheating Made Easy

The air fryer is also excellent for reheating leftover potstickers. It heats up quickly and can have your potstickers warm and crispy again in just a few minutes.

So, if you're looking for a convenient, tasty, and healthier way to enjoy potstickers, give the air fryer a try! It's a great way to achieve that perfect crispy texture while also saving time and effort in the kitchen.

Oil types and alternatives

When cooking potstickers in an air fryer, you can use a variety of oils to achieve the desired level of crispiness. Some common options include avocado oil, vegetable oil, olive oil, sesame oil, and peanut oil. You can also use an oil mister or spray to coat the potstickers and the air fryer basket. This helps ensure even coverage and prevents the potstickers from drying out or burning.

If you prefer to avoid oil, you can cook the potstickers without it. They may not have the same golden brown colour, but they will still taste delicious. Additionally, you can use alternatives such as butter for flavour, but it is not necessary for the cooking process.

Some people also recommend using parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially if you are cooking without oil.

Dipping sauce ideas

Potstickers are a delicious snack, side dish, or appetizer and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas for dipping sauces to accompany your air-fried potstickers:

Spicy Mayo Sauce

A creamy and flavorful upgrade to classic mayonnaise. You can usually find it pre-made at most grocery stores, but you can also make it at home by adding spices to your taste.

Classic Soy Sauce

Sometimes, simple is best. Soy sauce is always a tasty option, and you can add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.

Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce is a must-have in Chinese cuisine. It has a sweet, savory, and slightly garlicky taste that pairs perfectly with potstickers.

Sweet Chili Sauce

For those who enjoy a little heat, sweet chili sauce is an excellent choice. It combines chilies, sugar, and vinegar for a sweet and spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.

Other Options

Feel free to experiment with other sauces you love, such as sriracha, sesame oil, spicy mustard, sweet and sour sauce, or even your favorite BBQ sauce. Get creative and find the perfect combination that suits your taste preferences!

Frequently asked questions