Potstickers from Panda Express feature tender, seasoned pork and finely chopped vegetables encased in a golden, pan-fried dumpling wrapper, delivering a savory and crispy bite with every mouthful.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon
- Dumpling wrappers
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Frying pan or skillet with lid
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl (for water or sealing wrappers)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped carrots
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 12–16 round potsticker (gyoza) wrappers
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup water
Ground pork is essential for the authentic flavor and texture of Panda Express potstickers, so be sure to select fresh, high-quality pork with a good fat ratio. Finely chopping the vegetables like green cabbage, green onions, and carrots ensures even cooking and a harmonious blend of flavors inside each dumpling wrapper. Soy sauce and sesame oil provide the signature savory and nutty notes, making precise measurement crucial to maintain balance. Using round potsticker wrappers is important since their thin, pliable texture allows for proper sealing and creates the iconic crispy edge when pan-fried. Your homemade Potstickers from Panda Express copycat menu will closely mimic the restaurant's delicious, tender, and savory dumplings when you follow these ingredient tips carefully.
Instructions
- Add ground pork, cabbage, green onions, carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and white pepper to mixing bowl.
- Mix until filling is thoroughly combined.
- Place dumpling wrappers on cutting board.
- Spoon 1 heaping teaspoon of filling into center of each wrapper.
- Moisten edge of wrapper with water (use pastry brush or finger).
- Fold wrapper in half and press edges to seal, pleating if desired.
- Repeat for all wrappers and filling.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Arrange potstickers flat-side down in single layer in pan.
- Cook 2–3 minutes until bottoms are golden brown.
- Add 1/3 cup water to pan.
- Cover pan with lid immediately.
- Steam potstickers for 4–5 minutes until water evaporates.
- Remove lid and cook another 1–2 minutes until bottoms are crisp.
- Transfer potstickers to serving plate with tongs or spatula.
Substitution
Potstickers from Panda Express copycat menu combine seasoned pork and crisp vegetables wrapped in delicate dumpling skins, pan-fried to golden perfection. You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for pork to accommodate different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. If you don't have round potsticker wrappers, square wonton wrappers can be used, just fold carefully to seal. Water helps seal the dumplings, so keep a small bowl handy while assembling. When pan-frying, adjust heat to prevent burning and use a lid to steam the potstickers, ensuring they cook through evenly.
Tips
When sealing potsticker wrappers, ensure the edges are moistened evenly with water to prevent them from opening during cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to maintain a crispy bottom and even cooking. Use medium-high heat for browning, but reduce heat to steam after adding water for tender filling and cooked wrapper. Your careful timing when removing the lid and crisping the bottoms will give each potsticker the perfect golden texture.
Nutritions
Potstickers from Panda Express provide a balanced blend of protein and vegetables, thanks to the 8 oz of ground pork and finely chopped green cabbage, green onions, and carrots in each serving. Each dumpling wrapped in a golden pan-fried shell offers a moderate amount of fat, mainly from vegetable oil and sesame oil, contributing to its crispy texture and rich flavor. Your meal also delivers essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C from the vegetables, while garlic and ginger add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Keeping portion control in mind can help you enjoy this savory dish without overindulging in calories or sodium.
Storage
Store leftover potstickers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For longer storage, freeze the potstickers on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag, helping preserve their flavor and texture. When reheating, use a skillet with a bit of oil to crisp the bottoms again while warming the filling thoroughly for the best taste experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken, turkey, or even finely chopped shrimp for a lighter or seafood twist. Adding finely chopped shiitake mushrooms or water chestnuts to the filling will enhance the texture and umami flavor. For a spicier version, mix a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha into the filling before assembling. Instead of pan-frying and steaming, try baking the potstickers at 400degF (200degC) for 15-20 minutes for a crispy, oil-free alternative.
Allergies
Potstickers from Panda Express contain common allergens such as soy, found in soy sauce, and sesame oil, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The dumpling wrappers might contain wheat, a gluten source that can cause issues for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. If you have allergies related to any of these ingredients, it's important to check labels or consult with the restaurant before consuming.
Why this recipe?
Panda Express' Potstickers menu features perfectly crisp pan-fried dumplings filled with savory pork and vegetables, delivering an authentic taste that satisfies cravings for Asian cuisine. The combination of a golden-brown exterior and tender, flavorful interior makes these potstickers a standout dish for both casual diners and food enthusiasts. Trying to make a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this beloved texture and flavor at home, customizing ingredients to suit your preferences while enjoying a rewarding cooking experience. Your homemade potstickers can capture the iconic taste of Panda Express with fresh, high-quality components and precise preparation techniques.