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Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 29 reviews

These Smash Dumpling Tacos are a delightful fusion dish combining the juicy, flavorful filling of Asian-style dumplings with the crispy, handheld convenience of mini tortillas. Ground pork is seasoned with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and other aromatic ingredients, then pressed and fried on tortillas to create a crispy base. Topped with tangy pickled cucumber, fresh herbs, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of chili oil or dumpling sauce, these tacos deliver a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and refreshing flavors—ideal for a fun appetizer or a unique meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dumpling Tacos:

  • 3 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced
  • A handful of cilantro leaves (coriander), chopped
  • 1 lb/500g ground pork mince (or chicken/turkey)
  • 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
  • Chili oil
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Make the Dumpling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the scallions, cilantro, ground pork, crushed garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, black vinegar, and a good grind of black pepper. Mix well to combine to create a flavorful dumpling filling.
  2. Prepare the Pickled Cucumber: In a small bowl, mix the diced cucumber with the rice vinegar and salt. Let this sit while you prepare the rest of the dish, allowing the flavors to meld and the cucumber to pickle lightly.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon about two tablespoons of the pork mixture onto each mini tortilla. Press the filling into a thin, even layer to ensure it cooks thoroughly and crisps up nicely.
  4. Cook the Tacos: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the tortillas with the filling side down into the pan. Use a spatula to press them firmly to promote even cooking and browning. Cook for about 4 minutes until the pork is cooked through and crisp. Flip the tortilla and cook for another 1 minute to crisp the tortilla side. Repeat with all tortillas.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Spoon some of the pickled cucumber mixture on top of each taco. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional scallions and cilantro. Finish by drizzling with chili oil or your favorite dumpling dipping sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • The taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Mini tortillas can be substituted with small flour or corn tortillas depending on preference—rice paper wrappers can be an interesting alternative but will result in a different texture.
  • Ground chicken or turkey can be used to make a leaner version of this dish.
  • Adjust the amount of chili oil according to desired spice level.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
  • This recipe is best served fresh to maintain the crispy texture of the taco shells.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash dumpling tacos, dumpling tacos, Asian tacos, pork tacos, fusion recipes, appetizer recipe

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/smash-dumpling-tacos-recipe/