If you’re a fan of dumplings, you know how delicious they can be. They are a staple in many Asian cuisines and are beloved by many. But did you know that you can cook dumplings in an air fryer? Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food, making it a healthy and convenient alternative to deep-frying.

Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is an easy, hassle-free way to enjoy this delicious snack without the need for excessive oil. In this article, we’ll provide you with a complete guide on how to cook dumplings in an air fryer. We’ll cover everything from preparing the dumplings to serving them.

Preparing the Dumplings

The first step to cooking dumplings in an air fryer is to prepare the dumplings. Whether you’re making your dumplings from scratch or using pre-made ones, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Choosing the Right Type of Dumplings

The type of dumplings you choose will determine the cooking time and temperature. You can use any type of dumplings, including pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian. However, keep in mind that different types of dumplings may have different cooking times, so it’s essential to check the package instructions.

Thawing Frozen Dumplings (If Applicable)

If you’re using frozen dumplings, you’ll need to thaw them before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight. However, if you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes.

Adding Seasoning and Other Desired Ingredients

Whether you’re making your dumplings from scratch or using pre-made ones, you can add your desired seasoning and ingredients to enhance the flavor. You can add garlic, ginger, scallions, sesame oil, soy sauce, or any other seasoning you like. Mix the seasoning and ingredients thoroughly with the dumplings to ensure that each one is evenly coated.

Setting Up the Air Fryer

Once you’ve prepared the dumplings, it’s time to set up the air fryer. Follow these steps to ensure that your dumplings are cooked to perfection.

Choosing the Appropriate Temperature and Time Settings

The temperature and time settings will depend on the type of dumplings you’re cooking and whether they’re fresh or frozen. Generally, most dumplings will cook well at a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always best to check the package instructions.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating the air fryer is an essential step to ensure that your dumplings cook evenly. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes before placing the dumplings in the basket.

Greasing the Air Fryer Basket

Greasing the air fryer basket is optional but highly recommended. You can use cooking spray or brush the basket with oil to prevent the dumplings from sticking. It also helps to promote a crispy texture.

Cooking the Dumplings

Now that you’ve set up the air fryer, it’s time to cook the dumplings. Follow these steps to ensure that your dumplings are cooked to perfection.

Placing the Dumplings in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the dumplings in the air fryer basket, making sure that they’re not touching each other. Depending on the size of the basket, you may need to cook the dumplings in batches.

Adjusting the Air Fryer Settings as Needed

Check the dumplings halfway through cooking to ensure that they’re cooking evenly. If necessary, adjust the temperature or time settings accordingly.

Flipping the Dumplings Halfway Through Cooking

To ensure that the dumplings are cooked evenly, it’s important to flip them halfway through cooking. Gently flip the dumplings using tongs or a spatula, being careful not to break them. Cook for the remaining time until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a simple and healthy way to enjoy this delicious snack. By following these steps, you can be sure that your dumplings will come out perfectly cooked every time.