How To Make Air Fryer Fresh Dumplings from Scratch

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Can You Cook Dumplings In An Air Fryer?

Air fryer dumplings are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional methods of cooking dumplings.

Easy to make from scratch and more delicious than shop-bought dumplings.

If you’re a fan of dumplings but want a healthier version, your air fryer is the answer.

You make these favourites without the excessive oil and calories typically associated with deep frying.

chinese dumplings

How To Make Dumplings From Scratch

homemade dumplings

Ingredients

This quantity of dough will make approximately 35 dumplings.

Freeze any leftovers.

  • 320g plain flour
  • 175ml warm (not boiling) water
  • Pinch of salt

How To Make Dumpling Dough

To make the dough, place the flour in a large bowl and gradually stir in the warm water until a dough forms.

On a floured surface, knead the dough with your hands for 5-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 45 minutes.

While you are waiting make your dumpling filling.

How To Assemble Air Fryer Dumplings

Divide the dough into 35 equally-sized balls.

Roll out each dough ball into a thin circle, about 10cm in diameter. (Don’t roll out too thinly as the dumpling has to hold the filling securely)

Place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each circle.

Wet the edges of the dough with water.

Bring the two opposite edges of the dough together and pinch them to seal.

Then, pleat the edges of the dumpling by alternately folding and pinching the dough.

Repeat until all of the dumplings are folded.

How To Air Fry Dumplings

Chinese Dumplings

Preheat your air fryer to 200C / 400F for 5 minutes.

Line the air fryer basket with greaseproof paper to stop the dumplings from sticking.

Brush the dumplings with vegetable oil or olive oil.

Carefully place the dumplings in the air fryer basket in a single layer leaving room for the air to circulate.

Depending on the size of your air fryer basket you may have to cook in batches.

Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through.

How to Make Air Fryer Dumpling Fillings

air fryer chinese dumpling showing the filling

When it comes to dumplings, the filling options are incredibly diverse and can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or vegetarian fillings, there are plenty of options to explore.

Here are some popular fillings for dumplings:

Air Fryer Pork Filling:

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams of minced pork
  • 50 grams of finely chopped cabbage
  • 25 grams chopped spring onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

Air Fryer Chicken Filling:

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams of minced chicken
  • 50 grams of finely chopped mushrooms
  • 25 grams chopped spring onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Air Fryer Prawn Filling:

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams cooked, peeled and deveined prawns, finely chopped
  • 50 grams of finely chopped water chestnuts
  • 25 grams chopped spring onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

Air Fryer Vegetarian Filling:

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams of finely chopped mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms)
  • 25 grams chopped spring onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Preparing The Dumpling Filling

To prepare the filling, mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

The filling is now ready to be used in your dumplings.

Do You Cook The Filling Before Making Dumplings?

There is no need to cook the filling beforehand. The air fryer will cook the filling and the dough together easily.

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Air Fryer Dumplings Tips

To achieve the best results when cooking air fryer dumplings, follow these tips:

  • Having trouble folding the dumplings? Try a dumpling maker.
  • If you don’t have a dumpling maker, you can also use a spoon to help you fold the dumplings. Place the filling in the centre of the dough circle and then fold the dough over the filling, using the spoon to press down on the edges to seal them.
  • To make sure that the dumplings are cooked through, cut one open. If the filling is cooked the dumplings are ready to serve.
  • If you are making a lot of dumplings, you can freeze them for later. To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 hour. Once the dumplings are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

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The Beginner’s Cheat Sheet is your secret weapon for mastering air frying, get the correct timings and temperatures for all foods. 

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Serving Air Fryer Dumplings

Dumplings can be enjoyed in various ways:

Dipping sauces and condiments:

  • Serve dumplings with soy sauce, vinegar, chilli oil, or a combination.
  • Customise the sauce by adding minced garlic, ginger, or sesame oil.

Pairing dumplings with other dishes:

  • Serve dumplings as part of a larger meal with stir-fried or roasted vegetables, rice, or noodles.
  • They can also be enjoyed as appetisers or snacks on their own.

Can You Freeze Homemade Dumplings?

If you are making a lot of dumplings, freeze any leftovers for later.

To freeze the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 hour.

Once the dumplings are partially frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Homemade dumplings can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Frozen Dumplings

To cook frozen dumplings:

No need to defrost the dumplings.

Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F for 5 minutes.

Place the frozen dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

How To Cook Dumplings From Frozen

Chinese Dumplings From Frozen

Shop-bought frozen dumplings are convenient when you are in a hurry.

Here is how to cook them :

Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F for 5 minutes.

Line the air fryer basket with greaseproof paper.

Brush the dumplings with vegetable/olive oil.

Place the dumplings in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, store-bought dumplings can be cooked in an air fryer from frozen.
  • Homemade dumplings can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
  • Yes, frozen dumplings can be cooked directly in the air fryer without defrosting.
  • The recommended air frying time for frozen dumplings is typically around 12-15 minutes at 190C / 380F.
  • To prevent sticking, line the basket with greaseproof paper, lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or brush it with oil before placing the dumplings.

Annemarie

Hi, I’m Annemarie

Having recently retired, I found myself looking for a new project to channel my energy.

That’s when the idea struck to create a dedicated UK air frying website.

Combining my passion for cooking and the desire to promote healthy eating in busy households, I began developing a collection of recipes tailored for those looking for quick and nutritious meals.

Join me on my journey and discover delicious ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.

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