Crispy Snow-Flower Dumplings
Ryoo Soo-young’s ‘Snow-Flower Dumpling’ Recipe: Making Crispy Pan-Fried Dumplings from Frozen Dumplings
Introducing Ryoo Soo-young’s ‘Snow-Flower Dumpling’ recipe, which transforms frozen dumplings into the perfect companion for tteokbokki using a special batter of flour and water. These snow-flower dumplings boast an incredibly crispy exterior and a moist interior, delivering a fantastic texture without deep-frying. The process is surprisingly simple, requiring no large batches of dough; just a tablespoon of flour and a little water create beautiful snowflake patterns. Each bite delivers delightful crispness that’s almost addictive! They are an excellent choice for a special snack at home during winter or as a simple accompaniment to drinks. They pair exceptionally well with tteokbokki, Korea’s beloved street food, and are also a great match for freshly made kimchi. Break free from the notion that this recipe is complicated and try making these delicious snow-flower dumplings today!
Main Ingredients- 7-10 Frozen dumplings
- 1 Tbsp All-purpose flour
- 150 ml Water
- 1 Pinch Salt
- 2-3 Tbsp Cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp Sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, shake off any ice crystals from the frozen dumplings or let them thaw slightly. Ice can cause the oil to splatter dangerously when frying.
Step 2
Heat a pan over high heat, then place the frozen dumplings in the dry pan without any oil. This is the initial step to get the dumplings accustomed to the pan.
Step 3
Once the dumplings begin to cook, add about 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil. To prevent splattering, pour the oil carefully from the center of the pan outwards. Maintain medium heat to ensure the dumplings cook evenly without burning.
Step 4
Cover the pan with a lid and cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes. This step warms the dumplings through to the center.
Step 5
Now, it’s time to make the ‘snow-flower batter’ that will make the dumplings extra crispy. Using regular flour instead of tempura or cornstarch results in a crispier texture. In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of flour with 150 ml of cold water.
Step 6
Add a pinch of salt and whisk with a fork or whisk until smooth and lump-free to create the snow-flower batter. Ensure the consistency is not too thick.
Step 7
After 3 minutes of cooking, the dumplings should have a nice golden hue. Now, it’s time to pour the prepared batter over the dumplings.
Step 8
Carefully pour the batter over the dumplings, then cover the pan again with the lid, as this is part of the frying process.
Step 9
Keep the lid on and listen for the water to boil, then transition to a ‘crackling’ sound, similar to oil sizzling. As soon as this crackling sound begins, get ready to lift the lid.
Step 10
Lift the lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the moisture from the batter to evaporate gradually, creating beautiful snowflake patterns on the dumplings. Cook until golden brown, being careful not to burn them.
Step 11
Once most of the moisture has evaporated and the snowflake batter on the dumplings turns golden, keep the heat on low and gently shake the pan to ensure the dumplings move freely. This indicates that the snow-flower dumplings are perfectly done.
Step 12
Finally, drizzle 1 tablespoon of sesame oil around the edges of the pan to add a fragrant finish to the dumplings.
Step 13
Turn off the heat. Place a plate of a suitable size over the pan, then hold both the pan and the plate together and invert them to transfer the dumplings onto the plate. Be gentle to maintain the snowflake pattern.
Step 14
Voila! Your beautifully crafted snow-flower dumplings are ready. They look stunning regardless of which side is presented upwards. For an extra touch of flavor, you can make a simple soy-vinegar dipping sauce. Especially during kimchi-making season, these dumplings are perfect with fresh kimchi, making for a delightful meal or a superb appetizer. Dipping them into rich tteokbokki sauce is heavenly! Enjoy these delicious snow-flower dumplings as a special treat or a simple appetizer when you crave something delightful.
