How to Steam Dumplings in Microwave: The Proper & Easy Way
It’s not always possible to cook dumplings the traditional way on a stovetop. That’s why learning how to steam dumplings in the microwave is such a handy skill. In just a few minutes, your dumplings will be cooked to perfection!
With this easy guide, you’ll be able to make steamed dumplings like a pro.
To steam dumplings in the microwave, all you need to do is add water to the plate of dumplings and cover it with a wet paper towel when microwaving.
If you’re craving dumplings but don’t have a steamer, never fear! The microwave is here to save the day. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be enjoying delicious steamed dumplings in no time.
First, find a microwave-safe plate that has a raised edge. You’ll need this to keep the dumplings from touching the bottom of the microwave and becoming soggy.
Next, fill the plate with dumplings, being sure to leave a little space between each one. Then, add water to the plate until it reaches about halfway up the dumplings.
Cover the plate with a lid or a piece of wax paper, and make sure there are a few small holes poked in the top to allow steam to escape. Microwave on high for three to four minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
And that’s it! You’ll have perfectly steamed dumplings without ever having to set foot in a steamy kitchen.
How Long Does It Take to Microwave Dumplings?
The cooking time for dumplings will vary depending on the size and type of dumplings, as well as the wattage of your microwave.
In general, it’s best to start with a lower cooking time and then increase it in 30-second increments until the dumplings are cooked through.
For example, if you’re microwaving frozen dumplings, start with two minutes of cook time before checking to see if they’re done. If they’re not, continue cooking in 30-second intervals until they reach the desired level of doneness.
How Do You Heat Dumplings in the Microwave?
If you’re reheating dumplings that have already been cooked, the process is pretty similar to steaming them from scratch.
The reheating process varies based on how the dumplings were stored.
If they’re stored in the fridge, they’ll need to be heated for a longer time than dumplings that were stored in the freezer.
Refrigerated
Refrigerated dumplings can be reheated whether they are fresh or leftover. Doing so is an easy task, and can help you have delicious cooked dumplings in no time. If they are fresh, they will take less time to heat up. If they are leftovers, they will obviously take a bit longer.
Steps
To reheat refrigerated dumplings, start by taking them out of the fridge and letting them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will help to prevent them from drying out in the microwave.
Next, add water to the plate of dumplings until it reaches about halfway up the dumplings.
Cover the plate with a lid or a piece of wax paper, and make sure there are a few small holes poked in the top to allow steam to escape.
Microwave on high for two minutes for fresh dumplings, 3 minutes for leftovers, or until the dumplings are heated through.
If you have leftover frozen dumplings, don’t worry—they can be reheated, too! Just follow these simple steps and enjoy.
Steps
Place the frozen dumplings on a microwave-safe plate.
Add a little water to the plate, just enough to cover the bottom of the dumpling. This will help to create steam and prevent the dumpling from drying out.
Cover the plate with a damp paper towel or napkin. This will also help to create steam and prevent splattering.
Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes if raw, 3-4 minutes if leftover, or until heated through.
How Do You Know When Your Dumplings Are Done?
One of the great mysteries of the microwave is how to know when your dumplings are done reheating. After all, there’s no visual cue to let you know when they’re ready. Fortunately, there is a foolproof way to tell. Simply poke a dumpling with a fork.
If the fork slides in easily, then the dumpling is done. If the fork meets resistance, then give it a few more seconds in the microwave. And that’s all there is to it.
Now you can enjoy perfectly reheated dumplings every time.
Can Dumplings Be Served Cold?
Whether or not dumplings can be served cold is a matter of debate. Some people say that dumplings are best enjoyed piping hot, straight out of the pot. Others believe that dumplings are just as delicious when served cold, with a dipping sauce on the side.
So, what’s the verdict? Is it ok to serve dumplings cold?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It all comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy eating cold dumplings, then go ahead and serve them that way.
However, if you prefer your dumplings hot, then you’ll need to heat them up before eating.
But either way, there’s no need to worry – dumplings are delicious, no matter how you serve them!
FAQs
How long does a dumpling last?
A dumpling can last anywhere from 1-2 days in the fridge, or up to 6 months in the freezer.
Are dumplings better steamed or fried?
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the soft, delicate texture of steamed dumplings, while others prefer the crispy exterior of fried dumplings.
Either way, both methods can result in delicious dumplings!
What’s the difference between steamed and boiled dumplings?
Steamed dumplings are cooked in a steamer, while boiled dumplings are cooked in boiling water.
Final Thoughts
Reheating refrigerated dumplings is easy, and can help you enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Just make sure to poke a few holes in the top of the container to allow steam to escape, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes for fresh dumplings, or 3-4 minutes for leftovers.
And if you’re ever in doubt, just poke a dumpling with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, then the dumpling is done.
So go ahead and enjoy your perfectly reheated dumplings!
