Among the various (and delicious) forms of edible, food-stuffed pockets that exist, potstickers are definitely one of our favorites. Sure, we also enjoy our calzones, samosas, and burritos, but freshly fried or boiled dumplings, carefully filled with delicious pork, chicken or vegetables, definitely hit the spot when we’re looking for something filling to serve over rice. And it helps that potstickers aren’t too difficult to make at home, especially once you master the process of sealing wontons. But if you simply aren’t feeling like folding up dumplings for dinner, then you can always choose from the various premade potstickers that are now available. In hopes of finding the potstickers that are most worth your money, we sampled four different varieties of frozen and refrigerated dumplings, all available in stores or online. Here are our rankings, from best to worst.
Best Overall
Pagoda Pork Potstickers ($3.97 for 9.49 oz)
These pork potstickers are a bit on the sweet side, but that’s our one complaint. Otherwise, the pork is juicy and well-seasoned, and the wontons are definitely tender. While the box only contains instructions for frying or microwaving these potstickers, it’s important to note that they can be prepared boiled, if you prefer them that way. Another upside that Pagoda provides is that their dumplings are divided into two packages inside the box. If you’re not feeling like making up all of the potstickers at once, you can save half for later.
Best Budget Potstickers
Signature Select’s Chicken & Pork Potstickers ($7.59 for 26 oz)
Safeway often makes commendable generic varieties of our favorite foods, and their potstickers are no exception. For less than half the price of some of our picks, you get nearly thrice the number of potstickers. Signature Select’s brand is also the only one among the varieties we tried to provide sauce, which seems like a gross oversight on the part of its competitors. If potstickers are a favorite in your family, this is definitely a great way to stock up.
Best Vegetarian Potstickers
Nasoya Organic Tofu Vegetable Dumplings ($5.49 for 9 oz)
Tofu in commercial products is often underseasoned, but Nasoya’s variety has plenty of flavor. The vegetables also provide a good bit of textural intrigue, as well as just a bit of sweetness. If you prefer meat-free dumplings, then Nasoya has your back.
Not Our Favorites
Annie Chun’s Organic Potstickers in Pork and Vegetable ($3.70 for 7.6 oz)
There’s nothing exactly wrong with these potstickers, but compared to our other picks, they simply didn’t have much flavor. They’re also one of the most expensive varieties on the list; only Nasoya gives you fewer dumplings for your money, and their potstickers taste better. Still, if you’re a fan of Annie Chun’s, or they’re on sale, then these will definitely satisfy your potsticker cravings.
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