Air Fryer Sesame Oil Dumplings (Print)

Crispy dumplings air fried and glazed with sesame oil for a quick, flavorful bite.

# Components:

→ Dumplings

01 - 20 frozen dumplings (pork, chicken, or vegetable; preferred variety)

→ Glaze & Garnish

02 - 2 tablespoons sesame oil
03 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
04 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
05 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
06 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced

→ Cooking Spray

07 - Nonstick cooking spray (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
02 - Place frozen dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spacing them apart. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray if desired.
03 - Air fry the dumplings for 8 minutes.
04 - In a small bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar if using.
05 - Brush the dumplings liberally with the sesame oil mixture after the initial cooking.
06 - Return dumplings to the air fryer and cook for an additional 4 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
07 - Transfer dumplings to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with extra soy sauce or preferred dipping sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crispy edges and tender centers without the splatter and constant attention of stovetop cooking.
  • The sesame oil glaze tastes like you spent way more time than you actually did, which is the best kind of kitchen shortcut.
  • Ready faster than delivery, with that restaurant-quality finish that makes even frozen dumplings feel special.
02 -
  • Don't skip the brush step—the glaze adds not just flavor but also that shiny caramelized finish that makes them look restaurant-quality.
  • Space matters; crowding the basket prevents even crisping and you'll end up with some chewy spots instead of that satisfying crunch all over.
  • The sesame oil should go on during the cooking process, not after, so it can glaze and slightly caramelize into the dumpling skin rather than sitting on top.
03 -
  • If your air fryer runs hot, start checking at the 3-minute mark during the second phase so you catch them at peak crispiness before they brown too dark.
  • Brush the glaze on while the dumplings are still in the basket rather than after removing them—the residual heat helps it caramelize slightly into the skin instead of just sitting on top.
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