Gyoza, the Japanese version of dumplings, are a beloved dish that has found its way into the hearts of food lovers around the world. These delicious pockets of flavor can be found in a variety of settings, from humble street stalls to high-end restaurants, each offering its unique twist on this classic dish.
Making homemade dumplings is not only a fun culinary adventure but also a rewarding way to bring a taste of Japan to your kitchen. Here’s a guide to creating dumplings from scratch, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Gyoza originated in China, where they are known as jiaozi, and were introduced to Japan in the early 20th century. They quickly became a staple in Japanese cuisine, renowned for their crispy bottoms and juicy, flavorful fillings.
While traditional gyoza are filled with a mixture of pork, cabbage, and garlic, there are countless variations to suit every palate. These dumplings have more standard ingredients, although you can definitely throw in other types of vegetables or proteins as well.
Gyoza Variations
In Japan, gyoza are typically enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, often paired with ramen or served with a refreshing dipping sauce. The most common type of gyoza is yaki-gyoza (which is what I’ll teach you how to make), which are pan-fried to achieve a crispy bottom and a juicy, flavorful filling. However, other variations are also popular, such as the following:
Yaki-Gyoza: Most common type of gyoza. Pan-fried dumplings that are crispy on the bottom and tender on the top. This is the most popular style in Japan.
Mushi-Gyoza: Steamed dumplings that are soft and juicy, often served in bamboo steamers.
Sui-Gyoza: Boiled dumplings that have a soft, delicate texture. Often served in a light broth.
Age-Gyoza: Deep-fried dumplings that are crunchy and golden brown. A delicious, albeit less common, variation.
My Other Most Popular Dumpling Recipes:
Homemade Gyoza
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
Gyoza are delectable Japanese dumplings, pan-fried to perfection with a crispy golden bottom and a tender, juicy pork filling that bursts with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Homemade Dumpling Wrapper:
*Note that you can also buy 36-38 store-bought wrappers!
- 2 c flour
- 1/2 c water
- Pinch of salt
Dumpling Filling:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 3 leaves napa cabbage, thinly chopped
- 6 shiitake mushrooms, thinly chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
Check out my dumpling sauce recipe HERE!
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and water while mixing with your hands until a dough starts to form.
- Onto a flat surface, sprinkle some flour. Knead the dough on it for about 10 minutes (or beat with a stand-mixer with a dough hook) until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
- After resting, divide the dough into 36-38. Work with one portion at a time, keeping the others covered covered with a wet cloth to prevent drying out. Take one dough ball and flatten it with your palm. Using a rolling pin, roll it into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Repeat the rolling process with the remaining dough balls and dust each wrapper lightly with flour to prevent sticking and stack them as you go.
- Begin making the gyoza filling. To a bowl, add all of the filling ingredients and mix to combine with your hands.
- To a wrapper, add about 1 tbsp of the filling to the middle. Begin wrapping the gyoza by pinching the center of the wrapper in half into a half-moon shape. Hold the gyoza in one hand and use the other hand to create pleats. Start on one side of the center pinch and make small pleats (about 2-4) towards the center, pinching each pleat firmly to seal. Repeat on the other side for a total of 4-8 pleats. Repeat with each gyoza wrapper.
- To a well-oiled pan over low heat, line up your dumplings into a circular shape. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until cooked all the way through. Increase the heat and continue to cook (about 2 minutes) until the bottom of the gyoza is brown and crispy.
- Pour in about 1/2 cup of water and place a lid on top of the pan. Increase the heat to high and cook until the water is evaporated (about 3-5 minutes). Serve hot.
Notes
If not using immediately, you can store the wrappers by placing them in an airtight container or plastic bag with a layer of parchment paper between each wrapper to prevent sticking. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes 36-38 gyoza
