Description
Smash Dumpling Tacos offer a creative and quick twist on traditional dumplings. Packed with savory ground protein, crispy mini tortillas, quick-pickled cucumbers, and a drizzle of dumpling dipping sauce, these tacos are a fun, low-effort alternative that delivers the rich flavors of dumplings in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
For the Dumpling Tacos:
3 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced
A handful of cilantro leaves (coriander), chopped
1 lb/500g ground halal protein (your choice)
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
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Make the Dumpling Mixture:
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In a mixing bowl, combine scallions, cilantro, ground protein, crushed garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, black vinegar, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly blended.
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Prepare the Pickled Cucumber:
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In a small bowl, mix diced cucumber with rice vinegar and salt. Let it sit while you assemble the tacos.
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Assemble the Tacos:
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Spoon a couple of tablespoons of the protein mixture onto each mini tortilla. Press the filling into a thin, even layer.
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Cook the Tacos:
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Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the tortillas filled-side down in the pan. Use a spatula to press down firmly and cook for about 4 minutes until the bottom is crispy and golden. Flip and cook for an additional minute to crisp up the other side.
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Garnish and Serve:
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Spoon the pickled cucumber onto each taco. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional cilantro and scallions. Drizzle with chili oil or dumpling dipping sauce. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!
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Notes
Storage: Leftover filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and fry the tacos just before serving for the best texture.
Customizations: Try different proteins (chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat) or add extra veggies for variety. You can also swap cilantro for other herbs like mint or Thai basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Tacos, Asian Fusion, Quick & Easy
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Mexican