Name: Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487962H44M3S
Total time: PT-487962H44M3S
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: Rice papers (1 per dumpling); 1–2 tbsp avocado oil (or neutral oil); 1 can tuna or salmon; 1 cup cooked sushi rice (seasoned with rice vinegar); 1/2 avocado, sliced; 3 tbsp Kewpie mayo (or regular mayo); 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp chili oil; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1 tsp sugar or honey; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings are a light yet satisfying dish made with a simple tuna (or salmon) and avocado filling wrapped in chewy rice paper, then pan-fried or air-fried until golden and crisp. Paired with a tangy, savory dipping sauce, these dumplings are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Uses rice paper for a gluten-free, lighter alternative to traditional dumpling wrappers.
Crispy on the outside while soft and flavorful inside.
Easy to make with pantry staples like canned tuna or salmon.
Can be pan-fried or air-fried depending on preference.
Pairs perfectly with a homemade dipping sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dumplings:

Rice papers (1 per dumpling)
1–2 tablespoon avocado oil (or neutral oil)

Filling:

1 can tuna or salmon
1 cup cooked sushi rice (seasoned with rice vinegar)
½ avocado, sliced
3 tablespoon Kewpie mayo (or regular mayo)
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
salt and pepper, to taste

Dipping sauce:

2 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili oil
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar or honey
sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

Prepare the filling
- In a bowl, combine tuna (or salmon), sushi rice, Kewpie mayo, soy sauce, and sriracha.
- Mix well, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Prepare the rice paper
- Dip each rice paper in warm water for 5 seconds until softened.
- Lay flat on a cutting board.
Assemble the dumplings
- Place a small amount of rice, tuna mixture, and sliced avocado in the center.
- Fold tightly into a dumpling shape, making sure it’s sealed.
Cook
- Pan fry option: Heat 1–2 tablespoon oil in a skillet. Cook dumplings for 4–5 minutes on each side, pressing slightly with a spatula for a crispy exterior.
- Air fry option: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray basket with oil, arrange dumplings with space between them, and spray tops. Cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping occasionally for even browning.
Make the sauce
- Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, sesame oil, and sugar/honey.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Serve
- Enjoy dumplings hot with dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10 dumplings (depending on filling size)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Replace tuna/salmon with cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
Add julienned carrots, cucumbers, or cabbage for extra crunch.
Use spicy mayo or wasabi mayo for more heat.
Skip frying and enjoy them as fresh rice paper dumplings.
Drizzle dumplings with unagi sauce or teriyaki glaze for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as dumplings may turn soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Fry or air fry just before serving.

Do I need to double-wrap the rice papers?

You can for extra sturdiness, but one layer is usually enough if wrapped tightly.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes, swap the tuna for tofu, edamame, or extra vegetables.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Avocado oil or another neutral oil with a high smoke point works best.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, though they won’t be as crispy as pan- or air-fried.

How do I keep rice paper from tearing?

Don’t over-soak — 5 seconds in warm water is enough before assembling.

Can I use leftover sushi-grade fish instead of canned?

Yes, just ensure it’s cooked or seared before using.

Are these dumplings gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I freeze them?

It’s not recommended — rice paper becomes rubbery after freezing and thawing.

What side dishes go well with these dumplings?

Serve with miso soup, cucumber salad, or edamame for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings are an easy, fun, and versatile recipe that combines creamy avocado, flavorful tuna filling, and a crunchy exterior. Whether pan-fried or air-fried, they make a delicious appetizer or light meal, especially when paired with a savory dipping sauce. These dumplings are a great way to enjoy sushi-inspired flavors in a crispy, bite-sized package.

Maggie

Crispy Rice Paper Dumplings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe