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Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

4.9 from 26 reviews

These Smash Dumpling Tacos offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining a savory ground pork dumpling filling with crisp mini tortillas, topped with refreshing pickled cucumber and vibrant garnishes. Perfect for a fun and flavorful meal or appetizer, these tacos bring Asian-inspired tastes to your table in an easy-to-make format.

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 finely sliced scallions, chopped cilantro, ground pork, crushed garlic, grated ginger, light soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, black vinegar, and a good grind of black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
  2. Prepare the Pickled Cucumber: In a small bowl, combine the diced cucumber with rice vinegar and salt. Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to develop while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Take each mini tortilla and spoon a couple of tablespoons of the pork mixture onto it. Press the filling firmly to spread it into a thin, even layer across the surface of the tortilla.
  4. Cook the Tacos: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the prepared tortillas, filling side down, onto the hot pan. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each taco to ensure the pork cooks evenly and adheres well. Cook for about 4 minutes until the filling is cooked through and beginning to brown, then flip each taco and cook for an additional minute to crisp up the tortilla. Repeat this process for all tacos.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the tacos from the pan and spoon some of the pickled cucumber mixture on top of each. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and add extra chopped cilantro and scallions if desired. Finish by drizzling with chili oil or your preferred dumpling dipping sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the tacos at their best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • For a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled firm tofu or mushrooms instead of meat, and use vegetarian-friendly soy sauce and fish sauce alternatives.
  • If mini tortillas are unavailable, cut larger tortillas into smaller rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass.
  • The pickled cucumber can be prepared a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.
  • Adjust the chili oil and dipping sauce quantities to your preferred spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: dumpling tacos, smash dumplings, Asian fusion tacos, ground pork tacos, pickled cucumber, quick appetizer, fusion street food