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Speedy Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

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4.8 from 57 reviews

These Speedy Smash Dumpling Tacos blend the flavors of savory pork dumplings with the fresh zing of pickled cucumber, all wrapped in mini tortillas. Quick to prepare and packed with aromatic Asian-inspired ingredients like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, this recipe transforms classic dumplings into an irresistible taco twist that’s perfect for a fun weeknight meal or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dumpling Tacos

  • 3 scallions (spring onions), finely chopped
  • A handful of cilantro leaves (coriander), chopped
  • 1lb/500g ground pork mince (or chicken/turkey mince)
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (or 2 teaspoons ginger paste)
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon black vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 12 mini tortillas
  • Olive oil, for frying

For the Pickled Cucumber

  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

To Serve

  • Dumpling dipping sauce
  • Chilli oil
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pickled Cucumber: In a small bowl, combine the diced cucumber with rice vinegar and salt. Mix well and let it sit while you prepare the dumplings, allowing the flavors to develop and the cucumbers to pickle lightly.
  2. Mix the Dumpling Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ground pork mince with crushed garlic, grated ginger, chopped scallions, cilantro, light soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, black vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  3. Form and Cook the Dumplings: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Using a spoon, scoop small portions of the pork mixture and press them directly into the skillet to form small, flattened patties that mimic dumpling shapes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until browned and crispy, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and caramelized.
  4. Warm the Mini Tortillas: Lightly warm the mini tortillas in a dry pan or microwave just until pliable and warm, ready for assembly.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a cooked dumpling patty onto each warm tortilla. Top with a spoonful of pickled cucumber, drizzle with the dumpling dipping sauce and a splash of chili oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
  6. Serve Immediately: Serve the dumpling tacos hot for the best taste and texture, making sure to enjoy the mix of crunchy, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground pork with chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • If mini tortillas are unavailable, small flour or corn tortillas can be used.
  • Adjust the amount of chili oil based on your heat preference.
  • Dumpling dipping sauce can be store-bought or homemade using soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free tortillas.