Crispy Fried Dumpling Skirt Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crisp dumpling with that lacy golden skirt – delicate yet crunchy, elevating an already delicious bite.

I still remember the first time I mastered the skirt technique; it transformed my homemade dumplings from good to restaurant-worthy.

This recipe will guide you through every step so you can achieve the same satisfying crunch at home.

Tools Table

Tool	Purpose	Where to Buy
Mixing Bowl	For making the dumpling dough and filling	Kitchen stores, online
Rolling Pin	To roll out dumpling wrappers	Kitchen stores, online
Nonstick Pan	To ensure a smooth, crispy skirt	Home goods stores, online
Measuring Scale	Accurate ingredient measurements	Online, home stores
Spatula	To lift dumplings without breaking	Kitchen stores, online

Prep Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Active Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Dumpling Wrapper

• 200g All-purpose flour (~1 2/3 cups)
• 2g Salt (~1/2 tsp)
• 55ml Water (~3 1/2 tbsp)

Filling

• 400g Pork shoulder (~14 oz), finely chopped
• 300g Shrimp (~10 oz), peeled and chopped
• 1/2 tbsp Garlic, minced
• 1/2 tbsp Ginger, minced
• 200g Cabbage (~7 oz), finely shredded
• Hot water (to blanch cabbage)
• 15g Green onion (~1/2 oz), finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Seasoning powder (chicken or dashi-based)
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper

Dumpling Skirt

• 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
• 100ml Hot water (~6 1/2 tbsp)
• Cooking oil (for frying)

Dipping Sauce

• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp Vinegar
• 1 tsp Chili oil

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water while mixing.
3. Knead for 2 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
5. Knead again for 5 minutes, then let rise for 60 minutes.
6. Divide dough into small pieces and roll into thin circles using a rolling pin.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Blanch cabbage in hot water for 30 seconds, then squeeze out excess moisture.
2. Combine pork, shrimp, garlic, ginger, cabbage, and green onion in a bowl.
3. Add seasoning powder, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
4. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each wrapper.
2. Fold and pleat the edges to seal tightly.
3. Repeat until all dumplings are made.

Step 4: Fry and Create the Crispy Skirt

1. Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil.
2. Arrange dumplings in a circular pattern in the pan.
3. Fry for 2 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.
4. Mix flour with 100ml hot water and pour it around the dumplings.
5. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until water evaporates.
6. Uncover and let cook until the skirt crisps up.
7. Carefully slide onto a plate and serve.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. Mix soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil in a small bowl.
2. Serve alongside dumplings.

Food Storage

• Store uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
• Store cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat by pan-frying or steaming for the best texture.

Pro Tips

• Use cold water when making the dough for better elasticity.
• Ensure the filling is dry to avoid soggy dumplings.
• Cook in a nonstick pan to prevent tearing the skirt.
• Experiment with different fillings like chicken, mushrooms, or tofu.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	15g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	8g
Sodium	520mg

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought wrappers?
Yes! They work well if you’re short on time, though homemade wrappers offer a better texture.

2. What can I use instead of pork?
Chicken, beef, or tofu make excellent substitutes.

3. Why isn’t my dumpling skirt crispy?
Ensure there’s enough flour in the skirt mixture and let the water fully evaporate before uncovering.

4. Can I bake dumplings instead of frying?
You can, but you won’t get the same crispy effect. Try baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes.

5. How do I prevent dumplings from sticking?
Use a well-oiled nonstick pan and avoid moving them too soon while cooking.

Final Thoughts

Mastering crispy fried dumplings with a beautiful lace skirt is easier than you think.

With the right technique and a bit of patience, you’ll impress family and friends with this show-stopping dish.

Give it a try and enjoy the crunch!