Fresh dumpling wrappers fold and seal far more easily than dried ones, and a fatty pork filling stays juicy where a lean one shrinks into a dry pellet. The whole thing hangs on the fry-steam-fry sequence: the bottoms crisp first, the tops steam through, then the crust re-crisps once the water cooks off.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep40 min
Cook10 min
Makes24 dumplings
CuisineChinese
Cost$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for24dumplings
Dumpling wrappers
Round dumpling or wonton wrappers; keep them under a damp towel so the edges stay tacky enough to seal.
FillingSalt the chopped cabbage, wait 10 minutes, and wring out the water hard. Mix with pork, soy, sesame oil, ginger, and scallion until it turns slightly sticky.
FoldSpoon filling onto a wrapper, wet the rim, and pleat one side against the flat side to seal. A tight seal keeps the juice in.
FrySet dumplings flat-side down in a hot oiled pan and fry until the bottoms are golden, about 2 minutes.
SteamPour in a splash of water, cover fast, and steam until the water's gone and the tops are translucent. Uncover and fry a minute more to re-crisp the base.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Potstickers? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Potstickers ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Potstickers gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Potstickers vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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