Air fryers have become extremely popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. One delicious dish that can be made in an air fryer is dumplings. Whether you are making homemade dumplings or reheating store-bought ones, using an air fryer can give them a crispy and golden texture. However, it is essential to know the right cooking time to ensure that your dumplings are cooked to perfection. In this guide, we will explore how long to put dumplings in an air fryer, along with some tips and tricks to make them even more delicious.
How to Cook Dumplings in an Air Fryer
Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking your dumplings, it is crucial to preheat the air fryer. This will ensure that the cooking process starts right away and your dumplings cook evenly. Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature for dumplings, which is typically around 375°F (190°C). Preheating usually takes around 3-5 minutes, but it may vary depending on the model of your air fryer.
Step 2: Arrange the Dumplings
While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your dumplings. You can use either homemade dumplings or store-bought ones. If you are using frozen dumplings, make sure to thaw them before cooking. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the dumplings. The cooking time for dumplings in an air fryer can vary depending on their size and type. Generally, it takes around 8-10 minutes to cook dumplings in an air fryer. However, it is essential to check the dumplings frequently to avoid overcooking or undercooking them. You can use a pair of tongs to flip the dumplings halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
To ensure that the dumplings are cooked thoroughly, it is crucial to check for doneness before serving. Cut open one dumpling and make sure that the filling is hot and cooked through. The dumpling wrapper should be crispy and golden brown. If the dumplings need more time, you can put them back in the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Cooking Dumplings in an Air Fryer
Cooking dumplings in an air fryer can be a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket
To ensure that your dumplings cook evenly, it is important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave enough space between the dumplings so that the hot air can circulate and cook them properly. If you have a large batch of dumplings, cook them in multiple batches.
2. Brush with Oil
While air fryers require less oil compared to traditional frying methods, brushing the dumplings with a little oil can help them achieve a crispy texture. You can use a pastry brush to lightly coat the dumplings with oil before cooking. Alternatively, you can also spritz them with cooking spray.
3. Experiment with Different Flavors
One of the great things about cooking dumplings in an air fryer is that you can experiment with different flavors. Add herbs, spices, or even a dipping sauce to the dumplings before cooking to enhance their taste. You can also try different types of dumplings, such as pork, chicken, or vegetarian options.
4. Use Parchment Paper or a Non-Stick Spray
To prevent the dumplings from sticking to the air fryer basket, you can line it with parchment paper or use a non-stick cooking spray. This will make it easier to remove the cooked dumplings without any damage to their shape.
Conclusion
Cooking dumplings in an air fryer is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this tasty dish. By following the steps mentioned above and keeping these tips in mind, you can achieve perfectly cooked dumplings with a crispy and golden exterior. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of dumplings you are using. So, the next time you have a craving for dumplings, don’t hesitate to give your air fryer a try.