Save It Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Stickers bring a playful twist to your holiday table by combining all the nostalgia of Thanksgiving leftovers into a crisp golden dumpling. This recipe transforms roasted turkey savory stuffing and bright cranberries into bite sized parcels that are perfect for sharing.
Once I made these for a cozy Friendsgiving and the group now insists they are tradition. When I first surprised my family with these after Thanksgiving dinner they disappeared faster than the pumpkin pie.
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey: diced finely makes the filling juicy and ensures even bites Choose white or dark meat for your preferred flavor
- Stuffing: crumbled adds herby depth and soaks up the juiciness Aim for a stuffing full of aromatic vegetables
- Cranberry sauce: a touch of sweetness livens up the filling Choose whole berry for texture or smooth for a uniform mix
- Green onions: thinly sliced give a fresh brightness to the mix Pick firm dark green stalks for best flavor
- Soy sauce: seasons and ties the fusion flavors together Use reduced sodium if desired
- Fresh ginger: grated wakes up the filling Look for plump unwrinkled roots
- Garlic: minced brings savory flavor Select cloves that are firm and heavy
- Ground black pepper: adds gentle heat Grind fresh for more aroma
- Egg: binds everything and ensures the filling stays together Use the freshest eggs for cleanest taste
- Dumpling wrappers: gyoza wrappers are thicker and hold the filling well Check that wrappers are pliable and not dried out
- Vegetable oil: for frying a neutral oil lets the real flavors shine Pick high quality for best browning
- Chicken or turkey broth: adds savory steam Use homemade or a mild low salt variety
- For Dipping Sauce
- Soy sauce: for richness
- Rice vinegar: for brightness
- Honey: for subtle sweetness
- Sesame oil: for nutty aroma Look for toasted for more depth
- Chives: minced for a hint of green and extra freshness Optional but delightful if you have them on hand
Instructions
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl combine turkey stuffing cranberry sauce green onions soy sauce ginger garlic black pepper and egg Mix thoroughly until you see flecks of cranberry and everything is evenly blended
- Fill the Dumplings:
- Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean dry surface Spoon about one tablespoon of filling into the center Try not to overfill
- Seal and Shape:
- Dip your finger in water then gently moisten the edge of the wrapper Fold it into a half moon and pinch edges together to seal For a classic look pleat the edge as you work around the curve
- Assemble All Pot Stickers:
- Repeat with the rest of the wrappers and filling Arrange finished dumplings on a tray lined with parchment
- Brown the Pot Stickers:
- Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium high Place half the pot stickers flat side down in a single layer Cook for about two minutes until the bottoms are deeply golden
- Steam to Finish:
- Carefully pour in half the broth and immediately cover the skillet The steam will cook the tops of the pot stickers Let them steam for four to five minutes until wrappers are glossy and tender
- Crisp and Serve:
- Remove lid and let them cook one more minute so the bottoms get crispy again Transfer to a plate and cover lightly to keep warm Repeat with remaining oil dumplings and broth
- Make Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together soy sauce rice vinegar honey sesame oil and chives if using
- Serve:
- Serve the pot stickers piping hot with dipping sauce Offer extras like more cranberry sauce or chili crisp for guests
Save It I am endlessly charmed by how cranberry sauce transforms the filling turning these into the star of our day after Thanksgiving spread There is something almost magical about gathering everyone around the table to pinch dumplings together and share stories
Storage Tips
Refrigerate any cooked pot stickers in an airtight container for up to three days For reheating try a quick pan fry to revive their crispy bottoms You can also steam them gently in a covered skillet to keep them moist but use minimal water
Ingredient Substitutions
If you have mashed potatoes instead of stuffing the result is creamier but no less delicious For a vegetarian version roast a mixture of chopped mushrooms carrots and celery to replace turkey Gluten free wrappers also work if you need to avoid wheat
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a unique appetizer before a big holiday meal Pass them around with extra cranberry sauce on the side or offer a platter for brunch the next morning They are also excellent paired with a cup of miso soup or a shredded greens salad
Save It This recipe is guaranteed to bring playful flavor and togetherness to your festivities Try it once and it just might become your new tradition.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What is the main filling for these pot stickers?
They are filled with roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green onions, ginger, and seasonings for a hearty bite.
- → Can I make these pot stickers vegetarian?
Roasted vegetables can be used instead of turkey, and leftover mashed potatoes can replace stuffing for a vegetarian twist.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with these pot stickers?
A simple blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and chives enhances their savory flavors.
- → How do I seal the dumpling wrappers?
Moisten the wrapper edges with water, fold over the filling, and pinch or pleat to seal tightly.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the pot stickers until ready to cook. Steam and crisp right before serving.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Try a light white wine or jasmine tea to balance the flavors.