If you’re craving crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying dumplings, look no further than Smash Dumplings. This recipe takes everything you love about traditional dumplings and gives it a crispy, golden twist—imagine soft, juicy fillings with a perfectly crunchy exterior. It’s everything you want in a dumpling, but with that extra satisfying crunch that makes every bite irresistible. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your new favorite comfort food!
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This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly fun! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family and friends, these dumplings are a hit every time. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or ingredients—just a hot pan and a few basic items, and you’ll be on your way to dumpling heaven.
Why You’ll Love Smash Dumplings
This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about creating an experience. From the crispy crunch of the dumplings to the juicy, flavorful filling inside, you’re in for a treat. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Smash Dumplings are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal, a quick snack, or a fun appetizer for your next dinner party. You can even change up the fillings based on what you have in the fridge!
Budget-Friendly: All you need are a few simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have at home. No need for expensive dumpling wrappers or specialty items, just good, honest ingredients.
Quick and Easy: The prep is simple, and you don’t need to spend hours making these dumplings. A few minutes of folding, a quick fry, and you’re done. It’s a total time-saver, and the result is pure deliciousness.
Customizable: You can fill your dumplings with whatever you like—whether it’s classic pork, chicken, vegetables, or a mix. Get creative with your fillings and sauces to make them your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor—these dumplings are sure to be a hit at any table. They’re easy to make in batches, so they’re perfect for feeding a crowd.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Ingredients in Smash Dumplings
Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to make these deliciously crispy dumplings:
Dumpling Wrappers: The base of your dumpling, these thin wrappers hold everything together and create that crispy texture once fried.
Ground Pork (or Chicken): The filling! You can go with traditional pork or opt for chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. It’s all about what you prefer.
Ginger and Garlic: These two ingredients add a fragrant, zesty kick to the filling that balances out the richness of the meat.
Green Onion: Adds a fresh, savory flavor to the filling.
Soy Sauce: Brings a rich umami flavor to the filling and gives it that perfect salty finish.
Sesame Oil: This gives the dumpling filling that signature toasty, nutty flavor.
Cabbage: A great way to add a bit of crunch and freshness to the filling, plus it helps keep the dumplings juicy.
Salt and Pepper: The basic seasonings to ensure everything is well-seasoned.
Vegetable Oil: For frying, vegetable oil works best because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which helps get those crispy dumplings.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to make these crispy, golden Smash Dumplings:
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ginger, garlic, green onion, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the filling is evenly combined.
Assemble the Dumplings: Place a small spoonful of filling onto the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water, then fold it into a half-moon shape and pinch the edges together to seal.
Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of vegetable oil. Let the oil get hot—it’s key to getting that crispy exterior.
Smash the Dumplings: Place the dumplings in the pan, flat side down. Use a spatula to gently press each dumpling down, smashing it slightly to create a flat, crispy base. This will give the dumplings that signature crispy texture.
Fry to Perfection: Cook the dumplings for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Serve and Enjoy: Once they’re crispy and golden on both sides, remove the dumplings from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve with a side of soy sauce, chili oil, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Smash Dumplings
Dipping Sauces: These dumplings are perfect when served with a tangy soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy garlic dipping sauce.
Side Dishes: Pair them with a simple vegetable stir-fry or a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
Garnishes: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped cilantro adds a fresh touch, and a drizzle of chili oil gives them that extra kick.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before frying. This makes it easy to whip up a quick meal whenever you want.
Spice It Up: Add a bit of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the filling if you like things spicy!
Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a mixture of your favorite veggies for a delicious plant-based alternative.
Storage Tips: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot pan for that crispy texture.
Double the Batch: These dumplings freeze well, so feel free to make extra and freeze them for later. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag once frozen. To cook from frozen, fry them straight from the freezer until golden and crispy.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers?
A1: Yes! Store-bought wrappers work perfectly. Just make sure they’re fresh and pliable.
Q2: Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can assemble the dumplings and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
Q3: Can I use a different type of meat?
A3: Yes! Ground chicken, beef, or even tofu will work. Just adjust the seasoning to suit the meat.
Q4: Can I make these dumplings without sesame oil?
A4: You can substitute sesame oil with a neutral oil like vegetable oil, though you’ll miss that signature nutty flavor. You could also try adding a bit of toasted sesame seeds for a similar effect.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan for that crispy exterior.
Q6: Can I freeze these dumplings?
A6: Yes, they freeze wonderfully! Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them first, then transfer them to a bag for long-term storage. Fry from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
Q7: How do I make sure the dumplings stay crispy?
A7: Make sure your oil is hot before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures they cook evenly and get that crispy texture.
Q8: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A8: Yes! You can add finely chopped veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q9: Can I serve these with something other than soy sauce?
A9: Yes! Try a spicy mayo, hoisin sauce, or even a tangy vinegar-based dipping sauce.
Q10: What’s the best way to reheat leftover dumplings?
A10: Reheat dumplings in a pan over medium heat to keep them crispy. You can also reheat them in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Smash Dumplings are an absolute game-changer. With their crispy texture and flavorful filling, they’re sure to be a hit every time you make them. Whether you’re snacking, meal-prepping, or serving them as an appetizer, they’ll always hit the spot. Enjoy making and sharing these with your loved ones—you’ll be craving them before you know it!
Smash Dumplings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
These Smash Dumplings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, featuring ground beef instead of pork for a delicious twist. With savory soy sauce, fresh ginger, and sesame oil, they are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer!
#dumplings #groundbeef #asianrecipes #appetizers #wontonwrappers #soy #easyrecipes
Ingredients
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1 1/2 cups finely shredded Napa cabbage (about 3 oz.)
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1/2 tsp. kosher salt
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8 oz. ground beef
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2 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce, plus more for serving
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1 Tbsp. finely chopped peeled ginger
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2 tsp. toasted sesame oil
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4 scallions, thinly sliced, divided
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1 large egg
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20 round wonton wrappers
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10 tsp. vegetable oil, divided
Instructions
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In a fine-mesh strainer set over a large bowl, combine cabbage and salt. Let sit for 10 minutes.
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Transfer cabbage to a clean kitchen towel. Holding towel over the bowl, wring out as much water as possible. Pour liquid out of the bowl and wipe dry.
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In the same bowl, combine ground beef, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, cabbage, and 1/4 cup of sliced scallions (save the remaining scallions for serving). Using clean hands, mix until well combined and the mixture sticks together.
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In a small bowl, beat egg with a fork until blended. Arrange wonton wrappers on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush the center of each wrapper with a thin layer of beaten egg. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of the beef filling to each wrapper, pressing it into an even circle with a fork that almost reaches the edges of the wrapper.
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In a large heavy skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tsp. of oil, swirling the skillet to coat. Working 4 at a time, arrange dumplings in the skillet, filling side down. Cook until browned on the bottom, about 30 seconds. Flip to wrapper side, add 1 tsp. water, and cover the pan. Steam until the filling is cooked through and the wrapper is crisp and browned on the bottom, about 30 seconds more. Transfer to a platter. Repeat with the remaining filled wrappers and oil.
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Top the smash dumplings with reserved scallions. Serve with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
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you prefer a slightly spicier version, add a small amount of chili paste or fresh chili to the filling.
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These dumplings can be stored in the fridge and reheated in a skillet for crispy results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg