Crispy Pan-Fried Smash Dumplings (Printable Version)

Golden-bottomed dumplings with savory pork filling, pan-fried and smashed for extra crispiness. Ready in 40 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dumpling Filling

01 - 7 oz ground pork, chicken, or turkey
02 - 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions
03 - 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
04 - 1 clove garlic, minced
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
07 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
08 - 1/2 teaspoon sugar
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
10 - 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage, squeezed dry

→ Dumpling Assembly

11 - 16 round dumpling wrappers (gyoza or wonton style)
12 - Water for sealing

→ For Frying

13 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
14 - 1/3 cup water

→ Dipping Sauce

15 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
16 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
17 - 1 teaspoon chili oil, optional
18 - 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, optional

# How to Prepare:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine ground meat, scallions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, white pepper, and napa cabbage. Mix until well combined.
02 - Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of each wrapper.
03 - Moisten the edge of each wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch firmly to seal, creating pleats if desired. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
04 - Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet with lid over medium-high heat until shimmering.
05 - Arrange dumplings in the pan with flat side down without overlapping. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bottoms are golden and crisp.
06 - Carefully pour in water and immediately cover the skillet. Let steam for 5 to 6 minutes until water evaporates and dumplings are cooked through.
07 - Remove the lid and press each dumpling gently with a spatula to smash slightly and increase crispiness. Cook uncovered for 2 additional minutes until extra crispy.
08 - Mix dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve dumplings hot with sauce on the side.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The unique 'smash' technique creates a larger surface area for an extra-crispy, golden-brown bottom.
  • The filling is a vibrant blend of savory pork, aromatic ginger, and crisp napa cabbage.
  • This recipe is versatile and works perfectly as a shared appetizer or a satisfying main course.
02 -
  • Ensure the dumplings do not overlap in the pan so each one has space to get perfectly crispy.
  • The 'smashing' step is vital; it flattens the bottom and ensures the maximum amount of wrapper comes into contact with the hot oil.
  • Check ingredient labels carefully as wrappers may contain wheat or egg, and the sauce contains soy and sesame.
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