Dinner · asian
Pan-Fried Potstickers with Cucumber and Dipping Sauce
Frozen potstickers are one of the fastest real dinners you can put on the table, and the pan-fry-then-steam method turns them properly crispy without any skill required.
How to make it
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add potstickers flat side down in a single layer and cook 3 minutes until golden.
Add 1/3 cup water, cover immediately, and steam 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through.
Uncover and cook 1 minute more to re-crisp the bottoms.
Mix soy sauce and rice vinegar in a small bowl for dipping.
Serve with sliced cucumber on the side.
Trader Joe's chicken gyoza and Trader Joe's pork gyoza are both reliable and cheap. Bibigo Mandu dumplings are widely available at Target and Costco and also hold up well to this method. InnovAsian potstickers are another solid option found at most grocery chains. Slice the cucumber into rounds or spears while the dumplings steam.
Toss a handful of frozen edamame into the steam water for an extra vegetable with zero extra work. Drizzle a little sesame oil and a pinch of chili flakes into the dipping sauce for kids who like a bit of heat. Shredded carrots or sliced snap peas make easy sides that hold up well on little plates.
Need tonight's dinner handled?
Playful Parents knows your family — what's worked before, how much energy everyone has — and suggests one specific meal. Not a list. One.
Try Playful Parents free →Times are approximate. Adjust to your stove and your kids.