Are you ready for the ultimate dumpling experience? Imagine biting into a crispy, golden shell that cracks open to reveal a juicy, savory filling—sounds irresistible, right? That’s exactly what you’ll get with Smash Dumplings. These crispy, smashable little bites of deliciousness are a game-changer for anyone who loves dumplings but craves that extra crunch. Trust me, these dumplings are pure joy in every bite, and once you try them, you won’t look back!
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This recipe is perfect for any day—whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an easy dinner, or something to impress guests at a gathering. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients and a bit of frying magic to make them absolutely mouthwatering.
Why You’ll Love Smash Dumplings
There’s so much to love about these dumplings. From the crispy exterior to the flavorful filling, here’s why they’re a must-try:
Versatile: Smash Dumplings are perfect for all occasions—quick weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or even a fun appetizer for a dinner party. They’re always a hit, no matter the setting.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and you likely have most of them already in your kitchen. You’ll get tons of flavor without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: With a few simple steps, you’ll have crispy dumplings ready to devour in no time. It’s a perfect go-to recipe when you want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Customizable: The filling options are endless! Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a veggie-filled version, these dumplings can be made to suit any taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, savory, and packed with flavor, Smash Dumplings are sure to be a hit with family and friends. There’s just something about the crispy crunch that everyone loves.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Ingredients in Smash Dumplings
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy little dumplings:
Dumpling Wrappers: These delicate wrappers form the base for your filling and create the crispy edges when fried.
Ground Pork (or Chicken): The star of the filling! You can go with ground pork for a classic taste, or opt for chicken or any protein you prefer.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic add a flavorful kick to the filling, infusing it with aromatic, savory goodness.
Green Onion: A touch of green onion adds freshness and a mild onion flavor that balances out the richness of the meat.
Soy Sauce: This gives the filling a savory, umami-packed depth of flavor.
Sesame Oil: Adds that distinct toasted, nutty flavor that makes dumplings taste like something straight from your favorite dumpling shop.
Cabbage: Chopped cabbage adds a bit of crunch and keeps the filling juicy, making each bite even more satisfying.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling to perfection.
Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, vegetable oil gives the dumplings their crispy golden exterior without overpowering the flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Making Smash Dumplings is quick and easy—let’s break it down:
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork (or chicken), ginger, garlic, green onion, cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This flavorful filling is the heart of your dumplings!
Assemble the Dumplings: Take a dumpling wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, then fold it in half and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan—this will help the dumplings get that beautiful crispy texture.
Smash the Dumplings: Once the oil is hot, place the dumplings in the pan, flat side down. Use a spatula to gently press down on each dumpling to smash it flat. This is what gives them that crunchy, crispy base!
Fry to Perfection: Cook the dumplings for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully to avoid losing that crispy crunch!
Serve and Enjoy: Once your dumplings are golden and crispy, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce—soy sauce, chili oil, or even a tangy vinegar 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
These dumplings are so versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides:
Dipping Sauces: Try them with soy sauce, chili oil, or a tangy sesame dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Side Dishes: Pair with a simple vegetable stir-fry, steamed rice, or a crunchy cucumber salad to balance out the richness of the dumplings.
Garnishes: A sprinkle of sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil adds a nice touch to the presentation and enhances the flavor.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dumplings ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freezer for later. Just fry them when you’re ready to enjoy!
Spice It Up: For a little extra heat, add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or some fresh chopped chili to the filling.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot pan to bring back that crispy crunch.
Double the Batch: These dumplings freeze wonderfully! Make a double batch, freeze them, and have a quick meal ready whenever you need it.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers?
A1: Absolutely! Store-bought wrappers are a great time-saver and work just as well for this recipe.
Q2: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and fry when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q3: What’s the best way to reheat leftover dumplings?
A3: To keep the dumplings crispy, reheat them in a pan over medium heat with a little oil. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the exterior soggy.
Q4: Can I use a different protein for the filling?
A4: Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or even shrimp works wonderfully. Just adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Q5: Can I make Smash Dumplings with a gluten-free option?
A5: Yes! Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Q6: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
A6: Make sure to seal the edges of the dumpling tightly and press down gently when you smash them in the pan. This will keep the filling in place as they cook.
Q7: Can I freeze the dumplings?
A7: Yes! Freeze the dumplings before frying them. Once they’re frozen, store them in a bag, and fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready.
Q8: How do I know when the dumplings are perfectly crispy?
A8: You’ll know they’re ready when both sides are golden brown and the edges are crispy to the touch. Check them every few minutes to avoid overcooking.
Q9: Can I make these dumplings with a dipping sauce?
A9: Absolutely! A tangy soy-based sauce, spicy chili oil, or a sweet and sour dipping sauce pairs perfectly with these dumplings.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, feel free to double the recipe to make more dumplings for a bigger crowd or to have leftovers for later.
Final Thoughts
Smash Dumplings are a crispy, savory treat that will have everyone asking for more. With their golden exterior and juicy filling, they’re the perfect way to spice up your meal rotation. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or serving them as part of a bigger spread, these dumplings are bound to become a favorite. Have fun making them and enjoy every delicious bite!
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