Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely put frozen dumplings in a slow cooker! This is actually a great hands-off way to prepare dumplings. The low, slow heat of the slow cooker allows the dumplings to steam and cook through gently without overcooking. Just be sure not to overload the slow cooker, as too many dumplings may prevent proper steaming.
Detailed Answer
Using a slow cooker is an easy, convenient way to cook frozen dumplings. The moist, indirect heat creates the perfect environment for steaming and evenly cooking dumplings. Here are some tips for successfully cooking frozen dumplings in a slow cooker:
Thaw First for Best Results
Thawing the dumplings before adding them to the slow cooker will help them cook more evenly. To thaw, simply place the frozen dumplings in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cool water for 5-10 minutes until slightly softened but still cold in the center. Thawed dumplings will steam and cook through better than completely frozen ones.
Don’t Overload the Slow Cooker
Be careful not to overload the slow cooker with too many dumplings. Dumplings need room to steam and cook properly. If there are too many, the dumplings may stack up and not cook evenly. Check your slow cooker manual for suggested capacities, but generally you’ll want to fill the cooker no more than halfway for optimal steaming.
Use Liquid
The moist heat environment in the slow cooker is perfect for steaming dumplings, but you need liquid to create steam. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of water or broth to the slow cooker before adding the dumplings. Chicken, vegetable or mushroom broth all work well and will impart extra flavor. The liquid will also prevent any sticking or burning.
Layer Dumplings in a Single Layer
After adding liquid to the slow cooker, arrange the dumplings in a single layer on top of the liquid. Try not to overcrowd them. Layering the dumplings will allow steam to circulate fully around each one.
Keep Lid On
Cooking with the lid on is important for trapping steam and evenly cooking the dumplings. Avoid taking the lid off frequently to check them, as this will release steam and extend the cooking time.
Cook on Low
Cook frozen dumplings on the low setting for best results. Low, gentle heat will allow them to steam and cook through without getting rubbery or overcooked. The exact cooking time can vary based on the size and amount of dumplings, but 2-3 hours is typical.
Test Doneness
After a few hours, carefully open the lid and test a dumpling. It should be piping hot all the way through. The filling should be set but still moist, and the wrapper should be softened but still have some texture. If the dumplings need longer, re-cover the slow cooker and cook until heated through.
Prepare Dipping Sauce
While the dumplings are cooking, you can prepare a quick dipping sauce. Soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, minced ginger or garlic, and sesame oil are all tasty dipping sauce options. Mix up your favorite combo to serve alongside the piping hot dumplings.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Dumplings
Follow these tips to ensure your slow cooker dumplings turn out perfectly steamed every time:
– Use partially thawed dumplings for even cooking
– Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker
– Add broth or water to generate steam
– Arrange dumplings in a single layer
– Keep the lid on for moisture and heat
– Cook on low for 2-3 hours
– Use a dipping sauce for extra flavor
Common Q&A
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cooking frozen dumplings in a slow cooker:
Can you put frozen dumplings directly in the slow cooker?
While you can put fully frozen dumplings directly into the slow cooker, thawing them first is recommended. Fully frozen dumplings may not cook through evenly in the center. Partially thawing them promotes more even steaming.
How long do you cook frozen dumplings in a slow cooker?
Most frozen dumplings take 2-3 hours on the low setting in a slow cooker, but always check for doneness. Cook times depend on the amount of dumplings and how well thawed they are before cooking.
Do you need to add liquid to the slow cooker?
Yes, adding liquid like broth, water, wine, etc creates the steam needed to cook dumplings. The liquid should cover the bottom of the slow cooker before adding dumplings.
What setting should I use to cook frozen dumplings?
Cook frozen dumplings on the low setting. The gentle heat allows them to steam and cook through without overcooking the exterior before the inside is done. High heat can make the dumplings tough.
Can I cook frozen dumplings directly from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw frozen dumplings partially before cooking in the slow cooker. Fully frozen dumplings may not heat evenly and can have a soggy, gummy texture. Thawing them promotes proper steaming.
Troubleshooting
Having trouble getting perfect results when cooking frozen dumplings in your slow cooker? Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
Dumplings are not cooked through
– Increase cook time, checking every 30 minutes until piping hot
– Make sure to use low setting, not high
– Thaw dumplings more before cooking
Dumplings are mushy or gummy
– Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker
– Cook frozen dumplings immediately after thawing
– Use low setting and don’t overcook
Dumplings stick to the slow cooker
– Make sure to use cooking liquid like broth or water
– Use cooking spray or oil to grease slow cooker first
– Add dumplings in a single layer, don’t overcrowd
Dumplings fall apart
– Be gentle when handling and stirring dumplings
– Make sure dumplings are fully thawed before cooking
– Use fresh dumplings, not ones that are dried out
Dumplings have a weird texture
– Don’t lift lid frequently, steam should be trapped
– Adjust amount of liquid to prevent drying out
– Make sure slow cooker is on low setting
Alternative Cooking Methods
While the slow cooker is a great hands-off option, here are some other ways to cook frozen dumplings if you don’t have one:
Steaming
Steaming is the traditional cooking method for dumplings. Place thawed frozen dumplings in a bamboo or metal steamer lined with cabbage leaves or parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 4-6 minutes until cooked through.
Pan Frying
Thaw dumplings and place them in a skillet with 2 Tbsp oil heated over medium-high heat. Fry 2-3 minutes per side until crispy on the bottoms. Add 1/4 cup water, cover, and steam for 5 more minutes.
Boiling
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Gently add thawed frozen dumplings and boil for 4-5 minutes until they float to the top and are cooked through. Drain and serve immediately.
Baking
Arrange thawed dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with oil or brush with egg wash. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until browned on bottom.
Slow Cooker Dumpling Recipes
Here are some delicious slow cooker dumpling recipes to try:
Korean Kimchi Dumpling Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 32oz bag frozen kimchi dumplings, thawed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 4 green onions, sliced
– 1 Tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
Directions:
1. Layer ingredients in slow cooker: broth, kimchi, dumplings, green onions
2. Cook on low for 3 hours
3. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil before serving
Sweet Apple Cinnamon Dumplings
Ingredients:
– 2 10oz bags frozen apple cinnamon dumplings, thawed
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Directions:
1. Place apple cider and brown sugar in slow cooker and mix well
2. Add dumplings in a single layer and sprinkle with cinnamon
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours
4. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream
Chicken and Mushroom Dumpling Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 32oz bag frozen chicken dumplings, thawed
– 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 8 oz button mushrooms, sliced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Combine chicken, mushrooms, celery, thyme and broth in slow cooker
2. Layer dumplings on top of liquid
3. Cook on low 4-6 hours
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving
Nutrition Information
Here are some estimates for the nutrition information of slow cooker dumplings:
Chicken Dumplings
| Serving Size | 1 dumpling (30g) |
| Calories | 45 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 110mg |
Vegetable Dumplings
| Serving Size | 1 dumpling (25g) |
| Calories | 35 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Cost Analysis
Cooking dumplings at home using a slow cooker is very budget friendly compared to buying them pre-made. Here is a sample cost comparison:
| Homemade | Store-Bought | |
| 1 bag frozen dumplings | $3.99 | $7.99 |
| Broth | $0.50 | N/A |
| Total cost for 4 servings | $4.49 | $7.99 |
| Cost per serving | $1.12 | $2.00 |
As you can see, cooking your own dumplings at home can save over $1 per serving compared to buying pre-made dumplings. The slow cooker makes the process super simple and hands-off.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen dumplings in the slow cooker is an easy, foolproof cooking method. The indirect moist heat from the slow cooker allows the dumplings to steam perfectly until heated through. Be sure to partially thaw the dumplings first, don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, and use a liquid like broth or water to create steam. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, then enjoy restaurant-quality dumplings from the comfort of home! Experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces for new flavors.