Gyoza
Japanese Pan-Fried Dumplings
Authentic Japanese pan-fried dumplings (gyoza) featuring a savory and juicy filling of ground pork, finely chopped napa cabbage, and aromatic seasonings, all encased in delicate wrappers. They are expertly pan-fried to achieve a delightful contrast: a crispy, golden-brown bottom and a tender, steamed top. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Ground pork(Preferably 70% lean for optimal juiciness.)
- 200 g Napa cabbage(Finely chopped. Salted and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture.)
- 50 g Garlic chives(Finely chopped. If unavailable, substitute with green onions (scallions), using both white and green parts.)
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger(Finely grated or minced.)
- 2 cloves Garlic(Minced.)
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce(Japanese soy sauce is recommended.)
- 1 tbsp Toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp Sake or Mirin (optional)(Adds depth of flavor and helps tenderize the meat.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(For salting the cabbage.)
- 1/4 tsp White pepper(Optional, for a subtle spice.)
- 30 wrappers Gyoza wrappers(Round, thin wrappers specifically for gyoza. Keep covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.)
- 1/2 cup Water(For steaming the gyoza.)
- 2-3 tbsp Vegetable oil or neutral cooking oil(For pan-frying. Divided use.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Cabbage: Place the finely chopped napa cabbage in a bowl and toss with 1/2 tsp salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Then, firmly squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for a non-soggy filling and crispy bottom.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, squeezed cabbage, chopped garlic chives, minced ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sake/mirin (if using), and white pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly with your hands or chopsticks until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture becomes slightly sticky. Avoid overmixing, which can make the pork tough.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Assemble the Gyoza: Lay a gyoza wrapper flat on your palm or a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center. Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and moisten the outer edge of half the wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half over the filling. Starting from one side, create small pleats along one edge of the wrapper, pressing each pleat firmly against the other side to seal. Ensure the gyoza is well-sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4
Pan-Fry the Gyoza: Heat 1-2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully arrange the gyoza in a single layer, flat side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Steam the Gyoza: Carefully pour about 1/2 cup of water into the hot skillet (it will steam vigorously, so stand back). Immediately cover the skillet tightly with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the gyoza steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the wrappers are translucent and tender, and the filling is cooked through.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 6
Crisp the Bottoms and Serve: Remove the lid and increase the heat back to medium-high. Allow any remaining water to evaporate completely. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the bottoms are perfectly crisp and golden again. Carefully remove the gyoza from the pan. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure all excess moisture is squeezed from the cabbage for the best texture and to prevent sogginess.
- ✓When pleating, aim for consistent, small pleats for an attractive and secure seal. Ensure the pleats are pressed firmly against the flat side of the wrapper.
- ✓The final crisping stage after steaming is key to achieving the signature crispy bottom of gyoza. Listen for the sizzle!
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and crisping.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Shrimp Gyoza: Substitute half the ground pork with finely chopped shrimp.
- Vegetable Gyoza: Use a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, cabbage, carrots, and chives. Ensure vegetables are well-drained.
- Spicy Gyoza: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste to the filling.
🏷️ Tags
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