Convenience is the key in today's fast world, and frozen dumplings have recently become a preferred food for most when they desire to have something deliciously prepared but do not have enough time to prepare it from scratch. Whether you are busy mid-week or lazy on weekends, frozen dumplings fit the bill well when you want to have something good enough while not having too much time to prepare it from scratch. They come in thousands of flavours and fillings ranging from being strictly vegetarian to chicken and pork to tickle the fancies of each person and are also readily available in stores in India. Though it's easy to make them, getting the perfect crispy layer on the outside and soft on the inside requires some experience. Here's a very simple guide to cooking steamed, boiled, or pan-fried frozen dumplings perfectly every time:
Boil Frozen Dumplings
One of the quickest and safest methods to cook frozen dumplings is boiling, especially if you are short of time. Begin by using a pot and a sufficient amount of water to boil. Then, gently add the frozen dumplings into the water without overcrowding them. Stir them at times so as not to stick to the bottom or to each other. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until they start floating up. This is a sign that they are cooked through. Once done, drain your dumplings and serve them with your favourite dipping sauce. Boiled dumplings are very soft and tender. They make great additions to soups, though they can be eaten just on their own.
Steaming Frozen Dumplings
Another great way to cook frozen dumplings is by steaming-steaming helps preserve their shape and the filling remains juicy. To steam your dumplings, create a steamer basket or rack over a pot of boiling water. Line your steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves so the dumplings do not stick. Place your frozen dumplings in the basket in one layer. Do not overcrowd them. Steam for about 8 to 10 minutes. That way, they are well-cooked with a bit of softness but retaining a certain firmness. These dumplings might prove perfect for those who want less oil and prefer lighter preparation without the oil used in frying.
Pan-Frying Frozen Dumplings
For those who like a crunch, pan-frying is the best option. Pan-frying gives that crispy golden-brown bottom to the dumpling, while keeping the filling moist and flavorful. Fry frozen dumplings in a non-stick pan by putting 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Carefully put the dumplings in the pan when the oil is hot, flat side down. Fry the dumplings for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the bottoms are golden and crispy. If that's the case, add about ¼ cup of water in the pan and close it immediately by covering it with a lid to steam inside. Steam for another 5-6 minutes, or till all the water has evaporated. Remove the lid and let it fry for another minute till all of them become crispy again. Serve with a sour soy-vinegar dip.
Air Frying Frozen Dumplings
With air fryers becoming a familiar part of Indian kitchens, air frying frozen dumplings is quite a healthy option while cooking. Coat the air fryer with oil or spray some cooking spray and position it to 180°C. Place the dumplings in one layer at a time in the air fryer basket for 8-10 minutes, half-way flipping to achieve even crisping. The result is well-crisped dumplings using little oil, perfect for a health-conscious person.