Fried pork dumplings, also known as potstickers, are a popular dish featuring juicy pork filling encased in golden, crispy wrappers. These dumplings are perfect as an appetizer or a main course.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 cups Napa cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
For the Wrappers:
- 30-40 round dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
For Frying:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water (for steaming during frying)
Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Assemble the Dumplings
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center.
- Wet the edges of the wrapper with water using your finger.
- Fold the wrapper in half and pinch the edges to seal, creating pleats if desired.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Dumplings
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Arrange the dumplings in the skillet, flat side down, in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Add 1/2 cup of water to the skillet and cover immediately to steam the dumplings.
- Cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the water evaporates and the bottoms crisp up again.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil, and sugar.
- Mix until the sugar dissolves.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the dumplings to a serving plate.
- Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Fried Dumplings
- Seal Properly: Ensure the dumplings are sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook dumplings in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Homemade Wrappers: For an extra touch, make dumpling wrappers from scratch using flour and water.
- Freezing Option: Uncooked dumplings can be frozen on a tray, then stored in a bag. Cook from frozen with an extra minute of steaming.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 4 Dumplings)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
These fried pork dumplings are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor—perfect for any occasion!