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Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

5.3 from 16 reviews

Smash Dumpling Tacos are a flavorful fusion dish combining juicy, seasoned ground pork pressed onto mini tortillas and pan-fried until crispy, topped with refreshing pickled cucumber and garnished with herbs and spicy chili oil. This recipe offers a delicious blend of Asian-inspired dumpling fillings with the fun of taco eating, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or party snack.

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 black pepper. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is sticky enough to hold when pressed.
  2. Prepare the Pickled Cucumber: In a small bowl, combine the diced cucumber with rice vinegar and salt. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the remaining steps.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Take each mini tortilla and spoon approximately two tablespoons of the pork mixture onto it. Using the back of the spoon or your fingers, press and spread the mixture into a thin, even layer over the tortilla surface.
  4. Cook the Tacos: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the assembled tortillas, pork side down, into the pan. Press down firmly with a spatula to ensure even contact and cooking. Fry for about 4 minutes until the pork is cooked through and the bottom is golden. Flip the tacos over and cook an additional minute to crisp the tortilla. Repeat for all tacos.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Top each cooked taco with a spoonful of pickled cucumber. Sprinkle sesame seeds, extra chopped cilantro, and scallions over the top. Add a drizzle of chili oil or your favorite dumpling dipping sauce for an extra kick. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • The pork mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Assembled tacos can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to cook.
  • For a leaner option, substitute ground chicken or turkey for pork.
  • If mini tortillas are unavailable, small flour or corn tortillas work well too.
  • Adjust chili oil quantity to taste if you prefer milder or spicier flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Smash Dumpling Tacos, Asian fusion, ground pork tacos, pickled cucumber, easy dinner, appetizer, pan-fried tacos