Craving crispy dumplings but want a healthier, oil-free alternative to deep frying? Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings are the perfect solution! These dumplings are light, crunchy, and packed with flavorful fillings, making them an excellent snack, appetizer, or even a full meal. Using rice paper wrappers keeps them naturally gluten-free while the air fryer achieves the perfect golden crunch with minimal oil.
This easy, customizable recipe allows you to experiment with different fillings, from savory meat and veggies to plant-based options. Ready in under 20 minutes, these dumplings will satisfy your cravings without the hassle of deep frying. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Super Crispy – The air fryer gives them the perfect crunch without excess oil.
✅ Healthy & Light – Less grease, fewer calories, and gluten-free.
✅ Quick & Easy – Only 20 minutes from prep to plate.
✅ Customizable – Use your favorite proteins, veggies, or even cheese.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Make them in advance and freeze for later.
Total Time Required
⏳ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 10 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup protein of choice (ground chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork, finely chopped)
- 1 cup shredded vegetables (cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, optional for binding)
- Cooking oil spray (for crisping)
Dipping Sauce Options:
- Classic Soy Sauce Mix: Soy sauce + rice vinegar + chili flakes
- Peanut Sauce: Peanut butter + soy sauce + lime juice + honey
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add sesame oil.
- Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant (~1 minute).
- Add protein and vegetables, cook until soft (~4-5 minutes).
- Stir in soy sauce and cornstarch slurry (if using) for binding.
- Let the filling cool before assembling.
Step 2: Assemble the Dumplings
- Dip a rice paper wrapper in warm water for 5-10 seconds until soft but still firm.
- Place 1-2 tbsp of filling in the center.
- Fold the sides in, then roll tightly like a burrito.
- (Optional) Double-wrap for extra sturdiness.
Step 3: Air Fry the Dumplings
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray or brush the dumplings with oil.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Dip into your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
💡 Extra Crispy? Lightly coat dumplings with oil before air frying.
💡 Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the filling.
💡 Vegan Version: Use tofu, mushrooms, or mashed chickpeas instead of meat.
💡 Gluten-Free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
💡 Dipping Sauce Upgrade: Try hoisin-peanut or sesame-ginger sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.
2. Do I need to double-wrap them?
It’s optional, but double-wrapping makes them stronger and crispier.
3. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze before cooking, then air fry straight from frozen—just add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time.
4. How do I prevent rice paper from sticking?
Lightly grease the air fryer basket before placing dumplings inside.
5. Can I use different fillings?
Absolutely! Try fillings like cheese, kimchi, or mashed potatoes for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings are the perfect crispy, delicious, and easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re making them as a snack, appetizer, or meal, they’re sure to impress. Try them out and let me know—what’s your favorite filling? 🥟👇
Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup protein of choice ground chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded vegetables cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, optional for binding
- Cooking oil spray for crisping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add sesame oil.
- Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant (~1 minute).
- Add protein and vegetables, cook until soft (~4-5 minutes).
- Stir in soy sauce and cornstarch slurry (if using) for binding.
- Let the filling cool before assembling.
Step 2: Assemble the Dumplings
- Dip a rice paper wrapper in warm water for 5-10 seconds until soft but still firm.
- Place 1-2 tbsp of filling in the center.
- Fold the sides in, then roll tightly like a burrito.
- (Optional) Double-wrap for extra sturdiness.
Step 3: Air Fry the Dumplings
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray or brush the dumplings with oil.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Dip into your favorite sauce and enjoy!
