Five-Spice Pan-Fried Dumplings

Ingredients

• 12 pieces store-bought dumplings (pork or vegetable)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/4 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil(optional)
• 1 tbsp sliced scallions(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Whisk the dipping sauce: combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, sugar, and sesame oil (if using) in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. 2

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange dumplings flat-side down in a single layer and fry for 2 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.

3. 3

   Carefully pour in the water, cover the skillet immediately, and steam for 6-7 minutes until the water is absorbed and the dumplings are cooked through.

4. 4

   Uncover and cook 1 more minute until the bottoms are crisp again. Transfer to plates, sprinkle with scallions, and serve with the dipping sauce.