Pork and Cabbage Potstickers

These Pork and Cabbage Potstickers are a perfect combination of crispy, golden exteriors and a savory, flavorful filling. The balance of ground pork and finely shredded cabbage creates a savory bite that’s both tender and crunchy.

Serve these dumplings with a side of soy sauce for dipping, and they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or as a main dish, these potstickers bring all the comforting flavors of Asian cuisine to your table in a fun and satisfying way.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1/2 lb ground pork
1 1/2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 package round dumpling wrappers
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
2 tablespoons water (for steaming)

Directions:

In a bowl, combine ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water and fold it in half, sealing the edges to form a pleated dumpling.
Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Arrange the potstickers in the skillet, making sure they do not touch.
Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.
Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet and cover to steam the potstickers for 3-4 minutes or until fully cooked through.
Remove the lid and continue to cook for 1 more minute to crisp the bottoms.
Serve hot with soy sauce for dipping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origins and History of Potstickers

The history of potstickers dates back centuries to ancient China, where dumplings have been a central part of the culinary tradition for thousands of years. The origins of potstickers specifically can be traced to the Northern regions of China, where dumplings are considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In fact, it is believed that dumplings resemble ancient Chinese gold ingots, and eating them during the Lunar New Year brings wealth and good fortune.

Potstickers, known as “guotie” in Mandarin, gained their name due to the unique cooking method. Unlike regular dumplings that are simply boiled or steamed, potstickers are pan-fried first to create a crispy bottom before being steamed to finish cooking. The process of frying the dumplings in a hot skillet, followed by steaming them, is what gives potstickers their characteristic texture—crispy on the bottom while soft and tender on the top.

While potstickers are most commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, they have spread throughout many other Asian cultures, with variations found in Japan, Korea, and even Taiwan. Each region has added its own spin on the recipe, incorporating different ingredients and cooking methods to make them unique.

Why Pork and Cabbage?

The combination of pork and cabbage in potstickers is a match made in culinary heaven. Pork provides a juicy, savory flavor, while cabbage adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to the filling. The cabbage helps balance the richness of the pork, making each bite more satisfying and lighter than it might otherwise be.

Cabbage also serves as a great way to add texture to the filling, absorbing the flavors from the pork and seasonings while retaining its freshness. This mixture is often seasoned with ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, creating a complex yet harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and umami flavors that make these dumplings irresistible.

While pork and cabbage are the traditional filling, you can certainly experiment with other meats and vegetables. Some variations include adding mushrooms, shrimp, or even tofu to the filling, making the dish more versatile and suitable for different dietary preferences.

Health Benefits of Pork and Cabbage Potstickers

Although potstickers are often associated with indulgence, they can be surprisingly healthy, especially when made at home. The key to making potstickers a healthier option lies in using quality ingredients and controlling the cooking method. By making these dumplings at home, you can adjust the amount of oil and choose lean cuts of pork, reducing the overall fat content.

Cabbage, one of the main ingredients in these potstickers, is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to the filling. It is high in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and help prevent inflammation. Cabbage also supports digestive health, thanks to its high fiber content, and is low in calories, making it a great vegetable to incorporate into any diet.

When made with lean ground pork, these potstickers can also provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Furthermore, you can experiment with healthier dipping sauces, such as a low-sodium soy sauce or vinegar-based dip, to reduce excess sodium intake.

Tips for Making Perfect Potstickers

While making potstickers at home can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the perfect dumpling every time.

Use Fresh Dumpling Wrappers: Fresh dumpling wrappers are easier to work with and yield a more delicate and soft texture. Look for wrappers in Asian supermarkets, or you can even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Don’t Overfill the Wrappers: Overfilling the dumplings can cause them to break apart during the cooking process. Use just enough filling to seal the wrapper tightly without overstuffing.
Sealing the Dumplings: When sealing the potstickers, make sure to press the edges tightly together to avoid any leakage during cooking. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look, or simply fold the wrapper in half to create a half-moon shape.
The Perfect Frying Technique: To get that crispy bottom, make sure your skillet is hot before placing the potstickers in. Use a moderate amount of oil, enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Fry the dumplings until the bottoms are golden brown, then add water and cover the pan to steam them until cooked through.
Freezing for Later: If you make a large batch, potstickers freeze beautifully. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. You can cook them from frozen by frying and steaming them as you would fresh potstickers.

Variations on the Pork and Cabbage Potstickers

One of the wonderful things about potstickers is their versatility. You can experiment with a variety of ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few popular variations:

Pork and Shiitake Mushrooms: Adding shiitake mushrooms to the filling brings an earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the pork and cabbage. The mushrooms release a savory umami that enhances the overall flavor of the dumplings.
Pork and Shrimp: For a seafood twist, you can add shrimp to the filling. This combination offers a delicate sweetness from the shrimp that pairs well with the rich pork.
Vegetarian Potstickers: For a vegetarian version, you can swap the pork for tofu, or create a filling using mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil for a flavor-packed filling.
Spicy Potstickers: If you love spice, consider adding chili paste, red pepper flakes, or even fresh jalapeños to the filling or dipping sauce. The heat will add a new layer of flavor and kick to your potstickers.

Serving Suggestions for Potstickers

Potstickers are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

As an appetizer: Serve the potstickers as a delightful appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil. This makes for a great starter at any gathering.
As a main course: Potstickers can be served alongside a simple vegetable stir-fry or a fresh salad. Their crispy, juicy texture pairs well with other savory dishes.
In a soup: Add potstickers to a flavorful broth, like miso or chicken broth, for a comforting soup. The dumplings will soak up the broth while maintaining their crispy edges.

Conclusion

Pork and Cabbage Potstickers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course, these dumplings are sure to please everyone at the table. With their crispy exterior and juicy filling, potstickers provide a comforting meal that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Making potstickers at home allows you to customize the ingredients and control the cooking process, resulting in fresh, flavorful dumplings that are far superior to store-bought varieties. With a few tips and tricks, you can master the art of potsticker making and enjoy this delightful dish whenever you want.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, these potstickers are a fun and rewarding recipe to try. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy some delicious homemade dumplings!