Save Imagine combining the savory, juicy interior of a traditional gyoza with the irresistible, flattened crunch of a smashed burger. These Smash Dumplings are an Asian fusion delight, offering a textural masterpiece where the bottom of the dumpling is pressed into the skillet to create an extra-wide, golden-brown crust. Perfectly seasoned with ginger, garlic, and scallions, they are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Save The secret to these dumplings lies in the two-stage cooking process. First, they are steamed to ensure the meat filling is fully cooked and tender, then they are smashed and seared to achieve a level of crispness that standard pan-frying just can't match. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of savory umami.
Ingredients
- Dumpling Filling: 200 g ground pork (or chicken/turkey), 2 tbsp finely chopped scallions, 1 tbsp finely grated ginger, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp ground white pepper, 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage (squeezed dry).
- Assembly: 16 round dumpling wrappers (gyoza or wonton), small bowl of water.
- For Frying: 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1/3 cup water.
- Dipping Sauce: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp chili oil (optional), 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix the Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground meat, scallions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, white pepper, and squeezed-dry napa cabbage. Mix until well incorporated.
- Step 2: Fill and Seal
- Place a wrapper on a clean surface and spoon 1 tablespoon of filling into the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold in half, and pinch to seal, adding pleats if desired.
- Step 3: Initial Pan-Fry
- Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the dumplings flat side down and cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottoms are golden.
- Step 4: Steam
- Carefully pour in 1/3 cup of water and cover with a lid immediately. Let steam for 5–6 minutes until the water has evaporated.
- Step 5: Smash and Crisp
- Remove the lid and use a spatula to gently press each dumpling flat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the bottoms are extra crispy and smashed.
- Step 6: Serve
- Whisk the dipping sauce ingredients together and serve alongside the hot dumplings.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure your dumplings don't get soggy, it is crucial to squeeze as much liquid as possible out of the chopped napa cabbage before mixing it with the meat. Additionally, using a heavy spatula to press down during the final frying stage helps create that signature thin, crispy skirt.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting ground pork with chicken, turkey, or a plant-based mince. For a vegetarian version, use a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and tofu. If you enjoy spice, add a teaspoon of chili flakes directly into the meat filling.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these smash dumplings immediately while they are at their peak crispiness. They pair wonderfully with extra chili oil or black vinegar for dipping. For a beverage pairing, a crisp Riesling or a dry rosé provides a refreshing contrast to the savory, fried flavors.
Save Whether you pleat them perfectly or keep the folding simple, the "smash" technique is the real star here. These dumplings bring a modern, crunchy energy to a classic dish, ensuring that no one can stop at just one. Enjoy your homemade Asian fusion feast!
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dumplings up to 24 hours in advance. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. You can also freeze uncooked dumplings for up to 3 months and cook directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the steaming time.
- → What's the smashing technique?
After steaming, remove the lid and gently press down on each dumpling with a flat spatula to flatten it slightly. This increases the surface area touching the pan, creating extra crispy edges and a satisfying crunch throughout the bottom.
- → Can I use store-bought wrappers?
Absolutely! Round gyoza or wonton wrappers work perfectly for this dish. Look for them in the refrigerated or frozen section of Asian grocery stores or well-stocked supermarkets. Keep them covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying.
- → What if I don't eat pork?
Ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully as substitutes. You can also make a fully vegetarian version using finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or additional vegetables mixed with the same seasonings for delicious umami flavor.
- → How do I prevent dumplings from sticking?
Use a well-seasoned nonstick skillet and ensure it's properly heated before adding oil. Don't move the dumplings once placed in the pan until the bottoms are golden and crispy. The crispy crust will naturally release from the pan when ready.
- → What should I serve with smash dumplings?
These dumplings pair beautifully with Asian-style slaws, cucumber salad, or stir-fried vegetables. For beverages, try crisp white wines like Riesling, light beers, or green tea. The simple soy-vinegar dipping sauce is essential, but chili oil adds wonderful heat.