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Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

Smash Dumpling Tacos Recipe

4.9 from 30 reviews

Smash Dumpling Tacos are a delicious fusion dish combining the savory flavors of spiced ground chicken or turkey with the crispiness of mini tortillas and fresh pickled cucumber. These tacos are topped with vibrant herbs and a choice of chili oil or dumpling dipping sauce for an exciting appetizer or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dumpling Tacos:

  • 3 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced
  • A handful of cilantro leaves (coriander), chopped
  • 1 lb/500g ground chicken or 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 chicken or turkey, crushed garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, black vinegar, and a good grind of black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
  2. Prepare the Pickled Cucumber: In a small bowl, mix the diced cucumber with rice vinegar and salt. Set this aside to allow the flavors to marinate and develop.
  3. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon about two tablespoons of the meat mixture onto each mini tortilla and press it down into a thin, even layer to ensure proper cooking.
  4. Cook the Tacos: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the filled tortillas meat-side down into the pan. Use a spatula to press down firmly to help the meat cook evenly and to achieve a crispy texture. Cook for approximately 4 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another minute until the tortilla is crisp and golden.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Top each taco with spoonfuls of the pickled cucumber, then sprinkle with sesame seeds, additional cilantro, and scallions. Drizzle with chili oil or dumpling dipping sauce according to preference. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  6. Storage: The taco filling can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The tacos can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to cook. Reheat gently before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or pork, depending on your preference.
  • Adjust the amount of chili oil to control the heat level in your tacos.
  • If mini tortillas are not available, small flour or corn tortillas can be used.
  • Pressing the meat mixture firmly helps in achieving a nice crispy texture when frying.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based mince and adjust sauces accordingly.
  • Leftover pickled cucumber can be used as a refreshing side salad or garnish for other dishes.

Nutrition

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