Crispy Pan-Fried Smash Dumplings (Print View)

Crispy pan-fried dumplings with juicy pork filling, golden bottoms, and flavorful Asian-inspired seasonings.

# Components:

→ Dumpling Filling

01 - 7 oz ground pork, chicken, or turkey
02 - 2 tablespoons scallions, finely chopped
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
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 napa cabbage, finely chopped and squeezed dry

→ Dumpling Assembly

11 - 16 round dumpling wrappers (gyoza or wonton)
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

# Directions:

01 - Combine ground meat, scallions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, white pepper, and napa cabbage in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed.
02 - Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of the wrapper.
03 - Moisten the edge of the wrapper with water using your finger. Fold the wrapper in half and pinch firmly to seal, creating pleats along the edge if desired. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
04 - Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange dumplings flat side down in a single layer without overlapping.
05 - Cook dumplings for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
06 - Carefully pour water into the skillet around the dumplings. Cover immediately with a lid and let steam for 5 to 6 minutes until water evaporates and dumplings are cooked through.
07 - Remove the lid and gently press each dumpling with a spatula to slightly smash and enhance crispiness. Cook uncovered for 2 additional minutes until extra crispy.
08 - Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil if using, and sesame seeds if using in a small bowl. Stir to combine.
09 - Transfer dumplings to a serving plate while hot. Serve immediately with prepared dipping sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Irresistible Texture: The unique smashing technique creates an extra-crispy surface that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling.
  • Complex Flavors: Fresh ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame oil provide an authentic and deep aromatic profile.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable for different protein preferences, from pork to plant-based options.
02 -
  • Don't Overcrowd: Fry the dumplings in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and space for smashing.
  • Safety First: Stand back when adding water to hot oil as it will sizzle and release steam rapidly.
  • Allergen Awareness: This recipe contains wheat, soy, and sesame; check wrapper labels for potential egg content.
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