If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you've probably heard of potstickers. These dumplings are pan-fried until crispy on the bottom, and then steamed until tender on top. Pork and leek potstickers are a popular and delicious variety. And if you're counting calories, you'll be happy to know that each 7-piece serving contains only 290 calories.

Pork and leek potstickers are also a good source of protein, with 14 grams in each serving. They also have 40% of your daily recommended iron intake and are low in sugar and saturated fat.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about pork and leek potstickers, from their nutritional information to tips for cooking and serving them.

What are Pork & Leek Potstickers?

Potstickers are a type of Chinese dumpling that are pan-fried until crispy on the bottom and then steamed until tender on top. Pork and leek potstickers are a popular variety that are filled with a mixture of ground pork, chopped leeks, and seasonings like ginger and garlic. Potstickers are a staple in Chinese cuisine and are typically served as an appetizer or side dish. They can be enjoyed on their own or dipped in a variety of sauces like soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil.

How many Calories are in Pork & Leek Potstickers?

A serving of 7 pieces (147 g) of pork and leek potstickers contains 290 calories. This makes them a relatively low calorie and filling option, perfect for those who want to enjoy a tasty Chinese dish while keeping an eye on their calorie intake.

What are the Ingredients for Pork & Leek Potstickers?

The ingredients for pork and leek potstickers typically include ground pork, chopped leeks, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and Chinese five spice powder. The filling is then wrapped in a thin dough and pan-fried until the bottoms are crispy before being steamed until the filling is cooked through. If you're making your own potstickers at home, you can adjust the amount of seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste. Some recipes also include additional vegetables like cabbage or carrot.

Are Pork & Leek Potstickers Healthy?

Pork and leek potstickers can be a healthy option as they are a good source of protein, iron, and other nutrients. However, they can also be high in sodium and fat, depending on how they are prepared. If you're watching your sodium intake, you can make your own potstickers at home using low-sodium soy sauce and rice vinegar. You can also use lean ground pork and trim off any excess fat to reduce the calorie and fat content.

How to Cook Pork & Leek Potstickers?

To cook pork and leek potstickers, start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat. Once the oil is hot, add the potstickers in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and cover with a lid. Let the potstickers steam for another 3-4 minutes or until the filling is cooked through. You can also test if the filling is cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F. Remove the lid and let the potstickers cook for another minute or two until any leftover water has evaporated and the bottoms are crispy again. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Can You Freeze Pork & Leek Potstickers?

Yes, you can freeze pork and leek potstickers for future use. To freeze, arrange the potstickers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour, or until solid. Then, transfer the potstickers to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook frozen potstickers, do not thaw first. Follow the cooking instructions above, but add an extra minute or two of cooking time to ensure the filling is cooked through.

Where can you buy Pork & Leek Potstickers?

You can buy pork and leek potstickers at most Asian grocery stores or online. They are also available at some supermarkets and specialty food stores. Look for them in the frozen food section, as they are typically sold frozen.

What are the benefits of Pork & Leek Potstickers?

Pork and leek potstickers can be a good source of nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamins. They are also a tasty way to enjoy Chinese cuisine and can be served as a filling appetizer or side dish. In addition, potstickers can be a fun and interactive meal to make with friends or family. Get everyone involved in folding the dumplings and cooking them up in a hot skillet.

What are the different ways to serve Pork & Leek Potstickers?

Pork and leek potstickers can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. They are typically enjoyed on their own or dipped in a sauce like soy sauce or chili oil. You can also serve them with a side of rice or noodles to make a more filling meal. For a healthier option, try serving your potstickers with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces to add more flavor and variety.

What are the Alternatives to Pork & Leek Potstickers?

If you're not a fan of pork and leek potstickers, there are plenty of other varieties to try. Some popular options include shrimp and pork, vegetable, or chicken potstickers. You can also experiment with different fillings and seasonings to find a combination that you love. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can also try making steamed dumplings instead of pan-fried potstickers. Steamed dumplings are made in a similar way but are not cooked in oil, making them a lower calorie and lower fat option.