Pan Fried Pork Dumplings

Pan-fried pork dumplings are a delicious and crispy treat that’s perfect for any meal or snack. This pork dumplings recipe is easy to follow and packed with juicy, flavorful filling wrapped in a thin, golden-brown wrapper. Whether you call them pan-fried dumplings, fried potstickers, or pork gyoza, they’re a must-try for anyone who loves Asian dishes.

If you’re looking for an easy gyoza recipe, this one is perfect for beginners and dumpling lovers. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make restaurant-quality dumplings at home. This easy Asian recipe is great for meal prep, as appetizer, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Try this dumpling recipe today and enjoy homemade goodness in every bite :-)!

Reasons why you’ll love this recipe♡

• Crispy & Juicy Texture – The perfect combination of a crispy golden bottom and a juicy, flavorful filling makes these dumplings irresistible.
• Easy to Make at Home – This recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginners who want to enjoy homemade dumplings.
• Versatile & Customizable – You can easily tweak the filling or dipping sauce to suit your taste preferences, making it a great go-to recipe.

Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe

Servings: 8
about 6-7 dumplings per serving

For the dumplings:

For the dipping sauce:

For cooking:

Step by Step Guide

Prepare the filling:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until well combined. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Assemble the Dumplings:

2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface and lightly wet the edges with water using your fingertip.

3. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of pork filling into the center.

4. Fold the wrapper in half to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly to seal while removing any air pockets. For a decorative touch, pleat one side before sealing.

5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Cook the Dumplings:

6. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook in small batches to ensure even cooking.

7. Place the dumplings in the skillet, flat side down, ensuring they don’t touch. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms turn golden brown.

8. Carefully pour in 2-3 tablespoons of water, then immediately cover with a lid. Lower the heat to medium-low and steam for 5-7 minutes, until the filling is fully cooked and the wrappers turn translucent.

9. Transfer the dumplings to a serving plate and repeat with the remaining dumplings, oil, and water.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

10. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped green onion until well combined.

Serve:

Serve the dumplings warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQ

Q: Can I make the dumpling filling ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dumplings.

Q: Can I freeze the dumplings before cooking?
A: Absolutely! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What type of dumpling wrappers should I use?
A: You can use store-bought round dumpling wrappers, often found in the refrigerated or frozen section of Asian grocery stores.

Q: Can I use other meats instead of pork?
A: Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or even shrimp can be used as a substitute. Just adjust seasoning as needed.

Q: How do I prevent dumplings from sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure to use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet and add enough oil before placing the dumplings in the pan.

Q: What’s the best way to seal dumplings?
A: Lightly wet the edges of the wrapper, press them together firmly, and remove any air pockets to ensure a tight seal. Pleating is optional but adds a decorative touch.

Q: How do I know when the dumplings are fully cooked?
A: The wrappers should turn translucent.

Q: Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with these dumplings?
A: A simple mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and green onions works great, but you can also add chili oil, garlic, or honey for extra flavor.

Q: Can I steam the dumplings instead of pan-frying them?
A: Yes! Steam them in a bamboo or metal steamer for about 8-10 minutes until fully cooked.

Q: How do I store leftover cooked dumplings?
A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by pan-frying or steaming.

Q: Can I bake the dumplings instead?
A: While possible, baking won’t give the same crispy texture. If you bake them, brush with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: What can I serve with dumplings?
A: They pair well with fried rice, stir-fried veggies, soup, or a simple Asian-style salad.

Q: How do I keep the dumplings from getting soggy?
A: Avoid overcrowding the pan when steaming, and make sure the lid is slightly ajar toward the end to let excess moisture escape.

Q: Can I make these dumplings vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace the pork with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of shredded veggies like cabbage and carrots.