This crispy, tender Trader Joes Potstickers Recipe is made with frozen gyoza and vegetable oil, ready in 12 minutes. The wrapper bottoms turn a deep golden brown while the filling steams perfectly inside. I rely on this quick cooking method whenever I need a fast weeknight appetizer.
What Makes This Version Different
I used to struggle with frozen dumplings sticking to the pan and tearing apart. The steam-fry method completely solved that issue for me.
Using a non-stick skillet with a tight-fitting lid is the real trick here. The brief steaming cooks the filling, while the final sizzle locks in that crucial crunch.
Jump to RecipeTrader Joes Potstickers Recipe Ingredients
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- 1 (16 oz) bag Trader Joe’s Frozen Potstickers (Chicken, Pork, or Vegetable)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
How To Make Trader Joes Potstickers Recipe
- Heat the Oil: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
- Pan-Fry the Bottoms: Arrange the frozen potstickers in a single layer, flat side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Steam the Potstickers: Carefully pour the water into the skillet and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce heat to medium and steam for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Crisp and Serve: Remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate. Cook for 1 more minute to re-crisp the bottoms, then serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
- Do not thaw: Cook the potstickers straight from the freezer for the best texture and shape retention.
- Use a shield: When adding water to the hot oil, hold the lid like a shield to prevent dangerous splattering.
- Watch the heat: If the bottoms brown too quickly before steaming, lower your burner temperature slightly.
What To Serve With Potstickers
Pair these crispy dumplings with steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad. They also make a great side for a larger meal of fried rice or stir-fried noodles.
How To Store
Keep any leftover cooked potstickers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a splash of oil to bring back the crispiness. Do not refreeze cooked dumplings.
FAQs
- Can I cook these in an air fryer? Yes, spray them with oil and air fry at 375 F for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway. They will be crispier all over and less tender than pan-frying.
- Do I need a special pan? A standard non-stick skillet works best to prevent tearing. A well-seasoned cast iron pan is a good alternative.
- What if they stick to the pan? Let them cool for a minute off the heat before trying to lift them. The resting time helps release the crust from the pan naturally.
Nutrition
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Total Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
- Protein: 10 g
Trader Joes Potstickers Recipe
3
servings2
minutes10
minutes12
minutesTrader Joes Potstickers Recipe yields crispy, tender dumplings using just oil, water, and frozen gyoza in 12 minutes. This reliable pan-frying technique creates the best quick appetizer for busy weeknights when you need something fast and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 (16 oz) bag Trader Joe’s Frozen Potstickers (Chicken, Pork, or Vegetable)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Directions
- 1. Heat the Oil: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
- 2. Pan-Fry the Bottoms: Arrange the frozen potstickers in a single layer, flat side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
- 3. Steam the Potstickers: Carefully pour the water into the skillet and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce heat to medium and steam for 4 to 5 minutes.
- 4. Crisp and Serve: Remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate. Cook for 1 more minute to re-crisp the bottoms, then serve immediately with mixed dipping sauce.
