Jump to Recipe Print RecipeJust when I thought I had tried every possible way to enjoy dumplings, I stumbled upon an exciting twist: Smash Dumpling Tacos! This unique fusion combines crispy tortillas with the savory deliciousness of traditional dumplings, creating the perfect quick weeknight meal. With juicy pork filling, refreshing quick-pickled cucumbers, and a delectable dumpling dipping sauce, these tacos not only satisfy cravings but also add a fun new dimension to your dinner table. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for those evenings when you want something a little special without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to dive into a crispy, savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds? Why Are Smash Dumpling Tacos a Must-Try? Fusion at Its Finest: Experience the delightful combination of traditional dumplings and modern tacos in one delicious bite. Quick Weeknight Solution: Perfect for busy evenings, these tacos come together in no time, so you can enjoy homemade goodness without the hassle. Crispy Convenience: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of fried mini tortillas that perfectly cradle a juicy pork filling. Flavor-Packed Toppings: Elevate your meal with quick-pickled cucumbers and a savory dipping sauce that complements every bite. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or casual get-togethers, these tacos are sure to impress guests and satisfy fussy eaters alike. Looking for more unique ideas? Check out Baked Smashed Potatoes for a delightful side dish! Smash Dumpling Tacos Ingredients For the Filling • Ground Pork – This is the main savory flavor; opt for high-quality meat for the best taste. • Green Onions – Adds a fresh, aromatic touch; slice them thinly for even distribution. • Garlic – Enhances flavor; minced garlic packs a punch. • Ginger – Offers a hint of warmth; fresh ginger adds vibrancy to the filling. • Soy Sauce – Brings saltiness and umami; use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. For the Tacos • Mini Tortillas – The crispy vessel for your filling; corn tortillas are a tasty option. For the Quick-Pickled Cucumbers • Cucumbers – Provides a refreshing crunch; thinly slice them for quick pickling. • Vinegar – Acts as the pickling agent; rice vinegar enhances flavors uniquely. • Sugar – Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness; adjust to taste. For the Dumpling Dipping Sauce • Soy Sauce – A must for traditional flavor; can also use tamari for gluten-free options. • Sesame Oil – Adds richness; a little goes a long way in enhancing flavor. • Chili Flakes – Introduce a kick; adjust according to your spice preference. These Smash Dumpling Tacos bring together cherished flavors in an unforgettable way! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smash Dumpling Tacos Step 1: Prepare the Pork Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, finely minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and soy sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a flavorful filling. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. This savory filling will ensure your Smash Dumpling Tacos are bursting with deliciousness when cooked. Step 2: Assemble the Tacos Take mini tortillas and scoop about a tablespoon of the pork filling onto the center of each. Carefully fold each tortilla in half, pressing gently to create a taco shape. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed, as this keeps the integrity of the tacos while cooking. This simple assembly is key for ensuring each bite of your Smash Dumpling Tacos is satisfying and scrumptious. Step 3: Heat the Oil In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom, about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, which should take about 3-5 minutes. To test the readiness, drop a small piece of then tortilla; it should sizzle immediately upon contact. Properly heated oil is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness in your Smash Dumpling Tacos. Step 4: Fry the Tacos Carefully place the assembled tacos in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently flip them halfway through cooking. Watch for that delightful golden color, as it indicates that the outside is perfectly crunchy and the filling is cooking through. Step 5: Drain and Cool Once the Smash Dumpling Tacos are cooked, use tongs to remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This step is essential to absorb excess oil, ensuring your tacos maintain their crispy texture. Let them cool for a minute while you prepare to top them with the fresh quick-pickled cucumbers and drizzle the delicious dumpling dipping sauce. Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve Top each taco generously with the quick-pickled cucumber slices, adding that fresh crunch that complements the savory pork. Then, drizzle your chosen dumpling dipping sauce over the top for a burst of extra flavor. Serve these Smash Dumpling Tacos warm for the best experience. With each bite, enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors as you savor this quick, weeknight dinner treat. Make Ahead Options These Smash Dumpling Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pork filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to intensify. Additionally, you can assemble the tacos, placing the filling in the tortillas and refrigerating them for up to 24 hours to maintain their quality. To finish, simply fry the assembled tacos straight from the fridge; there’s no need for thawing, ensuring they come out just as crispy and delicious as fresh. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality tacos with minimal effort when dinner time rolls around! How to Store and Freeze Smash Dumpling Tacos Fridge: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to regain crispiness. Freezer: Freeze assembled but uncooked Smash Dumpling Tacos on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat from frozen, fry directly from the freezer in hot oil until golden, about 4–5 minutes per side, ensuring they’re heated through. Filling Storage: Keep the pork filling in the fridge for up to 3 days; it can be reheated and used for fresh tacos anytime! Smash Dumpling Tacos Variations Feel free to play around with these suggestions to create your perfect Smash Dumpling Tacos experience! Lean Options: Swap ground pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter filling that still packs flavor. Both options keep it juicy yet healthier! Vegan Version: Try using store-bought vegan ground meat for a plant-based twist. This will ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious taco night together, regardless of dietary preference. Spicy Kick: Add some fresh chopped chili or sriracha to the pork filling for a spicy zing. This simple adjustment brings a delightful heat that spice lovers will adore. Flavor Boost: Experiment with different dipping sauces like hoisin sauce or a zesty lime aioli for varied flavors. Each sauce brings a new twist that keeps the meal exciting and fresh! Crunchy Texture: Mix some finely shredded cabbage into the pork filling for an extra crunch. This wholesome addition enhances texture while adding a bit of nutrition. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro or basil into the filling for a burst of freshness. These herbs elevate each bite, making your Smash Dumpling Tacos even more vibrant and flavorful. Sweet Twist: For a unique take, try adding a dash of hoisin sauce to the filling for sweetness and depth. It harmonizes beautifully with the savory pork, making each bite memorable. Looking for a delightful side to accompany your tacos? Pair them with some delicious Baked Smashed Potatoes for a complete meal that strikes a perfect balance of flavor and texture! What to Serve with Smash Dumpling Tacos What better way to complement those crispy delights than with a menu that balances flavors, textures, and refreshing accompaniments? Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds zest and freshness, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the tacos. Toss Napa cabbage with carrots, sesame oil, and a splash of vinegar for an exciting side. Sizzling Garlic Stir-Fried Veggies: Quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli tossed in garlic and soy sauce create a hot, savory contrast to your cool tacos. Savory Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, a bowl of miso soup offers a soothing backdrop, enhancing the umami experience and cleansing your palate between those delightful bites. Pineapple Salsa: The sweet bursts of pineapple salsa with cilantro and lime provide a refreshing sweetness, adding brightness next to the savory pork in each taco. Cucumber Salad: Light and crunchy, this salad pairs beautifully with the tacos. Toss sliced cucumbers with rice vinegar, sesame seeds, and a pinch of sugar for a quick, invigorating dish. Chilled Soba Noodles: Serve chilled buckwheat noodles dressed in a light sesame vinaigrette. Their nutty flavor complements both the pork filling and quick-pickled cucumbers wonderfully. Lightly Sweetened Iced Green Tea: A refreshing drink choice, this tea delivers a soothing quality that pairs well with the warm, crispy tacos, offering a hint of green tea’s earthiness. Creamy Coconut Tapioca Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with this comforting dessert. Its creamy texture and gentle sweetness are the perfect finish after enjoying flavorful Smash Dumpling Tacos. Expert Tips for Smash Dumpling Tacos Hot Oil Essential: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not hot, the tacos will absorb more oil and lose crispiness. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry a few tacos at a time to allow each one to cook evenly. This prevents steaming and helps them achieve that crispy texture. Quick Assembly: Prepare and fill your tacos as quickly as possible before frying. This stops the tortillas from getting soggy and ensures a delightful crunch. Season Wisely: Don’t forget to season your pork mixture generously. The flavors should be robust to shine through in your Smash Dumpling Tacos. Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment! Add finely chopped vegetables or switch meats to make your Smash Dumpling Tacos uniquely your own. Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe FAQs How can I choose the right pork for the filling? Absolutely! When selecting ground pork, opt for high-quality meat with a balance of lean and fat for the best flavor. Look for pork that has a slight pink hue and is moist but not greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work wonderfully in your Smash Dumpling Tacos. What’s the best way to store leftover Smash Dumpling Tacos? Very! Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep that crispy texture, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat—this will help regain some crunch. They’re scrumptious when reheated properly! Can I freeze the Smash Dumpling Tacos? Certainly! You can freeze assembled but uncooked Smash Dumpling Tacos. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them directly from the freezer until they’re golden brown and heated through, which takes about 4-5 minutes per side. What should I do if my tacos aren’t crispy enough? No worries! If your tacos are coming out less crispy than you hoped, make sure your oil is hot enough before you fry them. The oil should shimmer when it’s ready. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than frying. Fry in batches to get that perfect crunch you’re after. Are there any dietary considerations for making Smash Dumpling Tacos? Yes! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider substituting the ground pork with store-bought vegan ground meat for a plant-based version. Always check the label for allergens. Also, for those with soy allergies, you can replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a similar flavor without the allergens. Always adapt the recipe to suit your needs! How long do quick-pickled cucumbers last? Great question! Quick-pickled cucumbers can be stored in the fridge for about 1-2 weeks if kept in an airtight container. Just make sure they’re completely submerged in the pickling liquid to maximize their shelf life. Enjoy these delightful pickles as a refreshing side for your tacos or other meals! Crispy Smash Dumpling Tacos for Your Quick Weeknight Dinner Discover Smash Dumpling Tacos, a delicious fusion of crispy tortillas and savory dumplings, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 tacosCourse: DinnerCuisine: Asian, FusionCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Filling1 lb Ground Pork Opt for high-quality meat3 stalks Green Onions Slice thinly3 cloves Garlic Minced1 inch Ginger Fresh, grated2 tbsp Soy Sauce Use low-sodium for healthier optionTacos10 count Mini Tortillas Corn tortillas recommendedQuick-Pickled Cucumbers2 count Cucumbers Thinly sliced1 cup Vinegar Rice vinegar preferred1 tbsp Sugar Adjust to tasteDumpling Dipping Sauce2 tbsp Soy Sauce Use tamari for gluten-free1 tbsp Sesame Oil1 tsp Chili Flakes Adjust for spice preference Equipment Large mixing bowlSkilletTongs Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and soy sauce. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes.Scoop about a tablespoon of the pork filling onto the center of each mini tortilla, fold in half, and press gently to shape the taco.In a skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom, about 1/4 inch deep, until shimmering, about 3-5 minutes.Fry the tacos in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil and cool for a minute.Top each taco with quick-pickled cucumber slices and drizzle with the dumpling dipping sauce before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, assemble uncooked tacos, freeze on a baking sheet, and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen by frying until golden. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!