Published Sep 15, 2023 Updated Aug 14, 2024

Pan-Fried Mandu Recipe

Pan-fried mandu is a popular Korean dish commonly enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Mandu is made by filling dough wrappers with various ingredients, which can include meat, vegetables, tofu, seafood, or a combination of these, seasoned with a variety of spices and sauces. Mandu can be cooked using various methods, including boiling, steaming, pan-frying, or deep-frying. Pan-fried mandu, known as “gunmandu,” are particularly popular and loved for their crispy bottoms and juicy fillings.

Why This Recipe Works

The ingredients used in this recipe are easy to find in most grocery stores. You may also substitute the vegetables and protein for your own preference. It’s quick to prepare and freezer-friendly. You make a large portion of the mandu and store them in the freezer for future meals. It’s a great dish to serve for any occasion or special event. In Korean culture, making mandu can be a fun and communal activity, often done during family gatherings. It’s a dish that brings people together and is beloved by both Koreans and those who enjoy Korean cuisine worldwide.

Recipe Ingredients

This authentic pan-fried mandu recipe calls for a few ingredients below.

Dumpling wrappers Ground pork Kimchi Tofu Mung bean sprouts Onion Garlic chives Egg Garlic Salt Ground white pepper Sesame oil

For pan-frying:

Cooking oil Water

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients.

How To Make Pan-Fried Mandu

It’s effortless to make this delightful pan-fried mandu dish, followed by simple steps. First, prepare the filling by combining all vegetables, ground pork, and seasoning ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and set it aside. Next, assemble the Dumplings. Place a spoonful of filling into the center of the wrapper. Moisten the edge of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper in half, creating a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly to seal. Pleat the edges by folding and pinching to create a beautiful and secure dumpling. Finally, pan frying the mandu with a non-stick pan (skillet) with cooking oil and water. Cover the pan with a lid to trap the steam and let the dumplings steam for 8-10 minutes or until the water evaporates and the bottom of the mandu is crispy and golden brown. Serve immediately.

Cooking Tips

For the best result, please follow my tips below.

Use a non-stick pan to cook the pan-frying mandu for the ideal result. It helps prevent sticking and allows for even browning. For the filling, you may always substitute the ground pork with ground chicken, beef, or shrimp.  Do not overstuff the filling when assembling the mandu. It helps to prevent the filling from splitting out while cooking. 

What To Serve With Pan Fried Mandu

For an easy and wholesome Korean meal, I recommend the following recipes: I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please leave a comment and consider giving it a 5-star rating. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore my Recipe Index, and stay updated by subscribing to my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.

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