Air Fryer Dumplings: Perfect Timing For Crispy Treats

Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy dumplings without the hassle of oil splatter. It is also a more hands-off approach than pan-frying, as you don't need to flip the dumplings every few minutes to get an even crisp. The air fryer basket also allows you to cook a larger batch of dumplings at once, without having to worry about crowding the pan. The cooking time for dumplings in an air fryer depends on the size of the dumplings, the type of dough used, and the desired level of crispness. For frozen dumplings, the cooking time can range from 8 to 15 minutes at temperatures between 320°F and 400°F. Fresh dumplings will cook faster and should be cooked for 10-12 minutes at 400°F/200°C.

Air fryer temperature for cooking dumplings

The ideal temperature for cooking dumplings in an air fryer depends on the type of dumplings being cooked, the desired texture, and the number of dumplings being cooked.

For frozen dumplings, it is recommended to cook them at temperatures between 360°F and 400°F (180°C and 200°C) for 8 to 14 minutes. At 360°F, the dumplings will cook in about 10 minutes. Increasing the temperature to 380°F will reduce the cooking time to 8 minutes. For a higher temperature of 400°F, the dumplings will be ready in about 9 minutes. It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and number of dumplings being cooked. For a smaller number of dumplings, they will cook faster and should be cooked for a shorter time.

For fresh dumplings, it is recommended to cook them at 400°F for about 6 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.

To achieve a crispy texture, it is important to spray the dumplings with oil before placing them in the air fryer. Additionally, adding a small amount of water to the air fryer can help create a tender bottom and a super crunchy ridge of pleats on the dumplings.

How to prevent dumplings from drying out in the air fryer

To prevent dumplings from drying out in the air fryer, it is important to ensure that they are not overcooked. Different types of dumplings will have different cooking times, so it is important to keep an eye on them and check for doneness periodically. The size, thickness, and filling of the dumplings may also affect the cooking time.

One way to prevent dumplings from drying out is to add moisture to the air fryer. This can be done by adding a layer of water to the air fryer basket or by dipping each dumpling in water before cooking. However, one source cautions that this method may not create enough steam to effectively moisten the dumplings. Instead, it may be more effective to brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil before cooking. This will help to ensure that the dumplings do not stick to the air fryer basket and will also help to add moisture. It is important to use enough oil to prevent the dumplings from drying out.

Another way to prevent dumplings from drying out is to cook them in batches. If the air fryer basket is too full, the dumplings may not cook evenly, and those on the outside may dry out while those in the centre are still raw. Leaving space between each dumpling will allow hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and preventing drying out.

Finally, it is important to note that the type of dumpling and dough used can affect the results. Some types of dumplings, such as those with thicker dough, may not be suitable for air frying and may be better boiled, steamed, or pan-fried.

Oil splatter when cooking dumplings in an air fryer

When cooking dumplings in an air fryer, you can avoid the oil splatter that comes with pan-frying. The enclosed design of the air fryer means no messy oil splatter to clean up.

To cook dumplings in an air fryer, simply place the frozen dumplings into the air fryer basket. No thawing is required. Spray or brush the dumplings generously with oil, ensuring all sides are coated. You can also use oiled hands to rub the dumplings and coat them. Adding a small amount of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket or flicking water over the dumplings can help to create a crispy and tender texture.

The temperature and cooking time may vary depending on the type of dumpling and your preferred level of crispiness. A temperature of 360°F (180°C) is recommended for crispy dumplings. For a softer exterior, lower the temperature to 350°F, and for a browner exterior, increase the temperature to 400°F. The cooking time ranges from 8 to 14 minutes, depending on the size of the dumplings and the number being cooked. For a smaller batch, cook for a shorter time.

By following these steps, you can cook dumplings in an air fryer without the hassle of oil splatter, achieving a crispy and tender texture.

How to get dumplings crispy in an air fryer

Air-fried dumplings offer a convenient and tasty way to cook dumplings with extra crunch without deep-frying or watching a pan. You can use this technique with any store-bought or homemade dumpling, fresh or frozen.

Step 1: Prepare the dumplings

Place the dumplings in your air fryer basket, leaving about a 1/4 to 1/2-inch (1 cm) gap between them to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If using frozen dumplings, there is no need to thaw them before cooking.

Step 2: Oil the dumplings

Brush or spray the dumplings on all sides with a thin coat of oil. If you don't have a pastry brush or oil spray, you can simply oil your hands and rub the dumplings to coat them evenly.

Step 3: Add water

Use your fingers to sprinkle the dumplings and the base of the air fryer basket with a small amount of water. This step helps to create steam and ensure the dumplings don't dry out.

Step 4: Air-fry

Set your air fryer to 360°F to 400°F (180°C to 200°C) and cook for 8 to 12 minutes for fresh dumplings or 10 to 14 minutes for frozen ones. The higher the temperature and the longer the cooking time, the crunchier the dumplings will be. For smaller batches of dumplings, adjust the cooking time towards the lower end of the range.

Step 5: Flip (optional)

If you want an even crispier texture, you can flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking time. This will create a crispy, blistered shell with a crunchy seam along the top.

Step 6: Serve

Pierce a dumpling with a fork to check if it's ready. If it's easy to pierce and steam comes out, the dumplings are done. Serve with a dipping sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy!

The best type of dumplings to cook in an air fryer

Air-frying is a great way to cook dumplings, as it gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the filling soft and juicy. You can use an air fryer to cook dumplings made from a variety of different doughs and with different fillings, whether they are store-bought or homemade. This includes potstickers, gyoza, wontons, and pierogi.

However, one source notes that dumplings made with thicker dough, such as ticket dough, may not turn out well in an air fryer because you won't get a good texture. Instead, it recommends using dumplings with a thinner dough, like the Costco Bibigo chicken dumplings.

To cook dumplings in an air fryer, you should first place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving about a 1/4 to 1/2-inch (1 cm) gap between them to ensure they cook evenly. Brush or spray the dumplings with a thin coat of oil—unless you are using the Costco Bibigo dumplings, which come with their own air fryer instructions. You can use any oil you like, such as canola or olive oil, or even spray avocado oil. Some people also recommend adding a tiny bit of water to the air fryer to create steam and prevent the dumplings from drying out.

Then, air-fry your dumplings at between 360°F and 400°F (180°C and 200°C) for 8 to 14 minutes, depending on the size of the dumplings and the desired level of crispness. For example, one source recommends cooking dumplings at 380°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for another 2 to 6 minutes. Another source recommends cooking dumplings at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes if they are fresh, and 12 to 14 minutes if they are frozen. However, if you are cooking a smaller batch of dumplings, they will cook faster, so you should air-fry them for less time. To test if your dumplings are done, pierce one with a fork. If it's easy to pierce and steam comes out of the holes, they are ready to eat!

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