Air Fryer Crispy Dumplings

Featured in: Smoky Bites & Snacks

These dumplings feature a savory filling of ground pork or tofu mixed with napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Wrapped in delicate dumpling skins, they are air-fried until golden and crisp without excess oil. Complemented by a vibrant soy ginger dipping sauce that balances savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes, this dish offers a delicious appetizer or snack option. Vegetarian modifications include tofu and extra vegetables. Simple steps and quick cooking make them ideal for busy cooks seeking flavorful bites.

Updated on Wed, 18 Feb 2026 01:44:49 GMT
Golden air fryer dumplings with savory filling and crispy edges, served with aromatic soy ginger dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer.  Save
Golden air fryer dumplings with savory filling and crispy edges, served with aromatic soy ginger dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer. | smokyfeast.com

These Air Fryer Crispy Dumplings are a game-changer for anyone craving a golden, crunchy appetizer without the mess of deep frying. Filled with a savory, well-seasoned pork and cabbage mixture, they are quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the plate.

Golden air fryer dumplings with savory filling and crispy edges, served with aromatic soy ginger dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer.  Save
Golden air fryer dumplings with savory filling and crispy edges, served with aromatic soy ginger dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer. | smokyfeast.com

The secret to these dumplings is the balance of flavors in the filling and the aromatic dipping sauce. By using napa cabbage and green onions, you get a light, fresh bite that perfectly complements the rich ground pork.

Ingredients

  • Dumpling Filling: 200 g ground pork (or chicken/tofu), 1 cup shredded napa cabbage, 2 chopped green onions, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground white pepper.
  • Assembly: 20 round dumpling wrappers, small bowl of water.
  • Dipping Sauce: 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tsp sliced green onion, 1/2 tsp red chili flakes.
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Instructions

Step 1: Mix Filling
In a bowl, combine the ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Assemble
Place a wrapper in your palm, spoon 1 heaping teaspoon of filling into the center, moisten the edge with water, and seal tightly with pleats.
Step 3: Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry
Lightly spray dumplings with oil, arrange in a single layer in the basket, and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Prepare Sauce
While cooking, whisk together all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the dumplings immediately while hot with the soy ginger dipping sauce.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your air fryer basket isn't overcrowded so the air can circulate. If you prefer to prep ahead, you can freeze the dumplings before cooking; simply add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time and cook them directly from frozen. Required tools include mixing bowls, measuring spoons, an air fryer, a brush or oil sprayer, and tongs.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the pork with crumbled firm tofu and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or carrots. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and substitute the soy sauce with tamari. Always check labels, as this recipe contains soy, wheat, and sesame.

Serviervorschläge

These crispy dumplings pair beautifully with a chilled glass of Riesling or a warm pot of jasmine tea. They serve as an excellent starter for an Asian-inspired dinner party or a satisfying afternoon snack.

Crispy, golden dumplings air-fried to perfection, paired with tangy soy ginger sauce for an irresistible Asian-inspired snack.  Save
Crispy, golden dumplings air-fried to perfection, paired with tangy soy ginger sauce for an irresistible Asian-inspired snack. | smokyfeast.com

Each serving of these delicious dumplings contains approximately 210 calories, 8g of fat, 23g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein, making them a balanced and protein-packed treat. Enjoy the perfect crunch!

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Kitchen Questions

Can I make these with vegetarian ingredients?

Yes, using firm tofu instead of ground pork and adding extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots creates a tasty vegetarian version.

How do I ensure the dumplings stay sealed during cooking?

Moisten the edges of the wrappers with water before folding and press firmly to create a tight seal that prevents filling from leaking.

What is the best way to achieve a crispy texture?

Lightly brush or spray the dumplings with oil before air frying and arrange them in a single layer without overlapping for even crispness.

Can these dumplings be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dumplings and air fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What are good drink pairings with these dumplings?

A chilled Riesling or jasmine tea complements the flavors nicely, balancing the savory and tangy elements of the dish.

Air Fryer Crispy Dumplings

Golden, crisp dumplings paired with a tangy soy ginger sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Prep duration
25 min
Heat time
12 min
Complete duration
37 min
Created by Jackson Reed


Skill Level Easy

Heritage Asian-Inspired

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Labels No Dairy

What You'll Need

Dumpling Filling

01 7 oz ground pork, or chicken, or crumbled firm tofu for vegetarian option
02 1 cup napa cabbage, finely shredded
03 2 green onions, finely chopped
04 1 clove garlic, minced
05 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
06 1 tablespoon soy sauce
07 1 tablespoon sesame oil
08 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

Dumpling Assembly

01 20 round dumpling wrappers
02 Water for sealing

Soy Ginger Dipping Sauce

01 3 tablespoons soy sauce
02 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
03 1 teaspoon sesame oil
04 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
05 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
06 1 teaspoon green onion, finely sliced
07 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes, optional

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Filling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Phase 02

Fill Dumpling Wrappers: Place a dumpling wrapper in your palm. Spoon 1 heaping teaspoon of filling into the center of the wrapper.

Phase 03

Seal Dumplings: Moisten the edge of the wrapper with water using your finger. Fold and press the edges firmly to seal, creating pleats as desired. Repeat with remaining filling and wrappers.

Phase 04

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.

Phase 05

Prepare for Cooking: Lightly brush or spray the prepared dumplings with oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other.

Phase 06

Air Fry Dumplings: Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until golden brown and crispy.

Phase 07

Prepare Dipping Sauce: While dumplings cook, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, fresh ginger, green onion, and red chili flakes in a small bowl. Stir until well blended.

Phase 08

Serve: Transfer hot dumplings to a serving plate and serve immediately with the prepared soy ginger dipping sauce on the side.

Kitchen Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Air fryer
  • Small brush or oil sprayer
  • Tongs

Allergy Details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce and tofu option
  • Contains wheat from dumpling wrappers
  • Contains sesame
  • For gluten-free preparation, use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 12 g