Frozen Dumplings Get Big-Time Flavor With This Secret Saucy Trick

As if your frozen dumplings couldn't get tastier, the internet has found a way to make it happen. An Instagram reel, posted by user Jamesyworld, showcases three different hacks to elevate frozen dumplings: cooking them in an egg ring, turning them into quesadilla filling, and tossing them in sauce while they finish cooking. While they all sound great, the last saucy hack is one you won't want to neglect. 

Tossing the pan-fried dumplings (and yes, pan-frying is different than deep-frying) in sauce ensures that every bite will be bursting with flavor — much more so than the classic method of dipping your dumplings in a sauce on the side. Bring your favorite sauce to a simmer, then toss the dumplings in once they are already crispy. Gochujang, a Korean-based sauce, is the most commonly enjoyed sauce, but the options are endless.

While there are countless tasty sauces to explore, there are some general tips to make the most acute choices. If using a homemade sauce, ingredients like chili oil and Chinese black rice vinegar are essential. Chili oil will add an extra kick to any creation (but make sure to use it sparingly if you can't stand the heat!), and black rice vinegar's umami, smoky flavors will increase the depth of any sauce it's added to.

Although dumplings are believed to have originated in China during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), many other Asian cuisines have their own interpretations of the dish — meaning you may want to try a different sauce each time you cook them. For a Japanese flair, tamari is a yummy companion to frozen dumplings. Soy sauce's wheatless cousin, tamari is known for its 100% soy base, which is ideal for those with gluten intolerance. It's also thicker than traditional soy sauce, making it ideal to toss your frozen dumplings in. For some Thai flavoring, toss your frozen dumplings in a spicy peanut sauce. A tasty component in many Thai dishes, peanut sauce-tossed frozen dumplings could transport your kitchen straight to Thailand. You can also toss your frozen dumplings in a ginger tomato sauce. Fusing the sweetness and acidity of tomatoes with the bite and spice of gingercould give your frozen dumplings a hearty punch.