Steaming Bibigo Dumplings: A Beginner's Guide To Cooking Perfection

Bibigo steamed dumplings are delicious and convenient Asian-style dumplings that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in the microwave, air fryer, oven, skillet, or steamer. They come in different flavours, such as pork, beef, chicken, and vegetable, and can be purchased from retailers like Costco and Walmart. The dumplings are typically sold in packages containing six trays of dumplings and six sauce packets, with each tray holding around six dumplings. The cooking instructions may vary depending on the cooking method and appliance used, but generally, the dumplings are ready to serve in minutes, making them a quick and easy option for a snack, appetizer, or light meal.

Microwave instructions

Step 1: Pouch Preparation

Cut one corner of the pouch of dumplings to allow the steam to escape.

Step 2: Sauce Preparation

Place the sauce packet in warm water to thaw.

Step 3: Heating the Dumplings

Place the pouch in the microwave and heat on high for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Let the Dumplings Cool

Let the dumplings cool for 1 minute.

Step 5: Remove the Tray

Carefully open the pouch and remove the tray. Be cautious as the tray will be hot.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the dumplings with the dipping sauce.

Notes:

• The above instructions are based on a 1,000-watt microwave. The microwave cooking time may vary depending on the power and performance of your microwave.
• Do not cut or tear the bag.

Air fryer instructions

Step 1: Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175-180°C) for a few minutes. This will ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

Step 2: Take your frozen Bibigo dumplings and remove them from all packaging, including the steam tray. It's important to note that you can cook the dumplings directly from frozen, so there is no need to thaw them beforehand.

Step 3: Prepare your air fryer basket by spraying it with oil to prevent sticking. You can use a neutral oil like vegetable oil, or olive oil. This step is crucial to ensure the dumplings don't stick to the basket and for achieving a crispy texture.

Step 4: Place the frozen dumplings in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they are spaced out with some air between each dumpling to allow for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the basket.

Step 5: At this point, you can optionally add an extra spritz of oil to the top of the dumplings if you prefer a more browned and crispy texture.

Step 6: Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F (175-180°C) and cook the dumplings for about 10 minutes. Flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.

Step 7: Once the timer goes off, remove the dumplings from the air fryer and let them rest for about 2 minutes before serving. This allows the dumplings to cool slightly and the filling to settle.

Step 8: Serve your crispy Bibigo dumplings with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or dumpling sauce. You can also use the sauce that comes included with the dumplings.

Some additional tips for cooking Bibigo steamed dumplings in an air fryer:

• Keep an eye on the dumplings towards the end of the cooking time, as they can sometimes pop open.
• For extra crispy dumplings, apply another spritz of oil after flipping them at the halfway mark.
• The dumplings will be very hot when they come out of the air fryer, so be careful when handling them. It's recommended to nip off the tops or poke a small hole in the side to release the steam.
• If you're cooking a large batch, you may need to cook the dumplings in batches to ensure even cooking.

Oven instructions

Oven-baked dumplings are a great option if you don't have a microwave or air fryer available. Here's a step-by-step guide to cooking Bibigo steamed dumplings in the oven:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will ensure that your dumplings cook through evenly without burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Dumplings

Take the Bibigo dumplings out of their plastic packaging. Place them on a baking sheet, leaving a little space between each dumpling to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Bake the Dumplings

Place the baking sheet with the dumplings in the preheated oven. Bake them for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook or burn.

Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the dumplings are baking, you can prepare the dipping sauce. Place the sauce packet in warm water to thaw, or microwave it for about a minute. This will ensure that your sauce is ready to serve when the dumplings are done.

Step 5: Serve

Once the dumplings are baked, carefully remove them from the oven. Serve them hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the delicious, crispy oven-baked Bibigo steamed dumplings!

Note: Baking dumplings in the oven is the most time-consuming method compared to using a microwave or air fryer. However, it's a good option if you don't have access to those appliances, and it still produces tasty results!

Skillet instructions

The skillet method is a great way to cook Bibigo frozen dumplings. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
• Place the desired number of dumplings in the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer and have some space between them.
• Cook the dumplings for about two minutes, swirling the pan occasionally, until the bottoms turn a deep golden brown.
• Turn the heat up to medium-high and carefully add water to the skillet until it reaches about a third to halfway up the dumplings.
• Cover the skillet and allow the dumplings to steam until they are cooked through. This usually takes around 10 minutes for frozen dumplings.
• Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the lid and continue cooking until the water has evaporated and the dumplings become crisp.
• Serve the dumplings hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Note: This method works well for all types of frozen dumplings, not just Bibigo. Swirling the pan helps create an even crust on the dumplings.

Steamer instructions

To cook Bibigo steamed dumplings using a steamer, follow these steps:

• Line a steamer with perforated parchment paper liners.
• Bring the steamer water to a rolling boil over high heat.
• Remove the frozen dumplings from their plastic packaging.
• Place the dumplings in the steamer, leaving about a ½ inch of space between each dumpling.
• Cover and steam for about 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked through. The inside of the dumpling should reach 130 F when you insert a thermometer.
• Serve the dumplings with the dipping sauce.

Note: Using this method is best for those who are comfortable using steamers. If this is your first time using a steamer, be careful and check the internal temperature.

Alternative cooking methods:

If you don't have a steamer, there are several other ways to cook Bibigo steamed dumplings:

• Microwave: Cut one corner of the pouch to allow steam to escape. Place the sauce packet in warm water to thaw. Microwave the pouch on high for 2 minutes. Let it cool for 1 minute, then carefully open the pouch and remove the tray. Serve the dumplings with the sauce.
• Air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350 F. Remove the dumplings from the tray. Spray vegetable oil on the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Place the dumplings in the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes. Flip and cook for 3 more minutes. Serve with warm dipping sauce.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 F. Remove the dumplings from their plastic packaging. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Thaw the dipping sauce in warm water or in the microwave for 1 minute.
• Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the dumplings in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes, swirling the pan, until the bottoms are deep golden brown. Turn the heat to medium-high and add water until it comes a third to halfway up the dumplings. Cover the skillet and let the dumplings steam until cooked through (about 10 minutes). Remove the lid and continue cooking until the water evaporates and the dumplings become crisp. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

Frequently asked questions