Tiffany Haney
Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a convenient and tasty alternative to pan-frying or steaming. It's a quick and simple method that delivers crispy dumplings without the hassle of oil splatter. The dumplings come out crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can use this technique for Japanese gyoza, Korean mandu, Chinese dumplings, or potstickers—either homemade or store-bought, fresh or frozen. To get started, simply place the dumplings in the air fryer basket, spray or brush them with oil, and cook at the desired temperature and time, depending on your preference for crunchiness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dumpling type | Any type of frozen dumpling, including potstickers, gyoza, and wontons. Can also be used for homemade dumplings. |
| Dumpling fillings | Pork, chicken, beef, or seafood |
| Dumpling origin | Japanese, Korean, or Chinese |
| Oil | Spray or brush oil on dumplings before cooking. Alternatively, pour oil into one cupped hand and rub dumplings with oil. |
| Water | Adding a bit of water to the air fryer basket can help to steam the dumplings and prevent them from drying out. |
| Temperature | Between 320°F and 400°F. Lower temperatures may not be hot enough, while higher temperatures may brown the exterior too quickly. |
| Cooking time | 8-15 minutes. Longer cooking times will result in crispier dumplings. |
| Spacing | Leave space between each dumpling to allow hot air to circulate. |
| Flipping | Not necessary. |
| Sauce | Dipping sauces, such as garlic chili oil, soy sauce, and sesame oil, can be served with the dumplings. |
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What You'll Learn
Air fryer temperature and time
The temperature and time for cooking dumplings in an air fryer depend on the type of dumpling and the desired texture. For example, a higher temperature and a slightly longer cook will yield crunchier dumplings.
For frozen dumplings, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). The dumplings are then cooked for around 8–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). For crispier dumplings, they can be cooked for an additional 2 minutes.
For fresh dumplings, a temperature of 400°F (200°C) for 10–14 minutes is recommended. The range in time accounts for differences in dumpling size. For dumplings with a softer texture, the cooking time can be reduced by 2 minutes.
It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the dumplings and the air fryer model.
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Oil and water quantities
The amount of oil and water you use when cooking dumplings in an air fryer depends on the number of dumplings you are cooking, the type of dumplings, and the desired texture.
For oil, a thin coat is usually recommended. You can brush or spray the dumplings on all sides with oil, or rub them with oiled hands. You can also spray oil into the air fryer basket. If you are cooking frozen dumplings, you may need to add more oil halfway through cooking. Some recipes recommend avocado oil, while others suggest using a neutral-tasting oil like rapeseed so that the flavour of the dumplings shines through.
For water, some recipes recommend adding a small amount to the base of the air fryer basket. This will help the dumplings to steam and prevent them from drying out. You can also sprinkle a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) onto the dumplings themselves using a flicking motion.
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Dumpling types and fillings
There are many types of dumplings that can be cooked in an air fryer, including Japanese gyoza, Korean mandu or mandoo, Chinese dumplings, potstickers, and wontons. These can be either homemade or store-bought, fresh or frozen.
When it comes to dumpling fillings, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas for dumpling fillings to try:
- Pork and napa cabbage
- Pork and shrimp
- Spiced beef and shredded carrots
- Philly cheesesteak
- Chicken and sweet cabbage
- Spinach, tofu, vermicelli, and Sichuan peppercorns
- Prawns, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts
- Ground shrimp and pork sausage
- Kimchi, pork, scallions, glass noodles, and garlic
- Pork and Chinese sauerkraut
- Beef and yellow Chinese chives
- Lamb and carrot or Chinese cabbage
- Chicken or turkey with chickpea flour
- Ricotta, nutmeg, lemon zest, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and egg
- Cottage cheese, parsley, and mushrooms
- Blueberries, plums, or apricots (for dessert dumplings)
It is important to note that for vegetable fillings, you may need to draw out excess liquid by adding a little salt and letting the mixture rest for about 10 minutes before assembling the dumplings. This will ensure that the filling is not too wet, making it easier to work with.
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Dipping sauces
There are several dipping sauces that you can pair with your air-fried dumplings. Here are some ideas:
Soy Sauce and Sesame Seed Oil
A simple yet classic combination, you can adjust the ratio of soy sauce to sesame seed oil to your taste. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavour.
Soy Sauce, Water, Maple Syrup, Garlic Powder, Rice Vinegar, and Red Pepper Flakes
This sauce is perfect if you want something a little more complex. The maple syrup and rice vinegar add a touch of sweetness and acidity, while the garlic powder and red pepper flakes give it a savoury kick. You can also add sesame seeds to this sauce for extra crunch.
Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce is a sweet and savoury Chinese condiment that goes well with dumplings. It has a thick, sticky texture and a unique flavour that comes from a blend of spices, including five-spice powder and star anise.
Sweet and Sour Sauce
This sauce is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with the savoury flavours of dumplings. It's a balance of sweet and tangy flavours, typically made with a combination of sugar, vinegar, and ketchup or tomato paste.
Hot Mustard or Hot Sauce
If you prefer something spicier, you can opt for hot mustard or your favourite hot sauce as a dipping option.
Peanut Dip
You can find pre-made peanut dips at your local market, or you can make your own by blending roasted peanuts with some spices. Adding crushed ginger and low-sodium soy sauce can give it an extra kick.
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Air fryer benefits
Air fryers offer a convenient and effective way to cook dumplings, with several benefits over traditional cooking methods. Here are some advantages of using an air fryer to cook dumplings:
Convenience and Ease:
Air fryers provide a hands-off cooking experience, allowing you to tend to other tasks while your dumplings cook. You don't have to worry about constantly watching the dumplings or flipping them, as you would with pan-frying. This makes it easier to multitask in the kitchen or take care of other responsibilities.
Built-in Timer and Safety:
Most air fryers come with a built-in timer that automatically stops the cooking process, reducing the risk of overcooking or burning your dumplings. This feature provides peace of mind and helps prevent accidents, ensuring that you don't accidentally ruin your meal by forgetting about it.
Crunchy Texture:
Air fryers are excellent for achieving a crispy, crunchy texture on dumplings without the need for deep-frying. The hot air circulation creates a uniform crispness on the dumpling skins, giving them a golden-brown exterior that is appealing and delicious. This method is ideal for those who prioritize crunch and prefer a crispy texture to their dumplings.
Versatility:
Air fryers can cook a variety of dumplings, including Japanese gyoza, Korean mandu, Chinese potstickers, and homemade or store-bought dumplings. They work with fresh or frozen dumplings, eliminating the need for thawing, and can accommodate different fillings and wrapper types. This versatility means you can easily experiment with different flavors and types of dumplings.
Reduced Oil Splatter:
Cooking dumplings in an air fryer typically requires less oil than traditional pan-frying, resulting in less oil splatter and mess. This makes the cooking process cleaner and helps reduce the risk of burns or messes associated with hot oil. It also contributes to a healthier cooking method, as excessive oil can be avoided.
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Frequently asked questions
The best temperature to cook dumplings in an air fryer is around 375°F. You can cook at 400°F, but this may brown the exterior too quickly. If you want to cook at a lower temperature, 350°F may not be hot enough.
Dumplings should be cooked in an air fryer for 8-15 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your dumplings and your air fryer model.
Place the frozen dumplings in the air fryer basket, leaving a small space between each dumpling. Spray the dumplings generously with oil, ensuring all sides are coated.
