
What is Gyoza?
Gyoza are irresistible Japanese steamed dumplings filled with a flavorful mix of ground meat (often pork), cabbage, garlic, and seasonings wrapped in a thin, delicate round wrapper. They’re crispy on the bottom, tender and juicy on the inside, and totally crave-worthy—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or full meal with dipping sauce!
Gyoza are traditionally pleated to seal in the filling, but don’t let that intimidate you out of making them! Fancy pleats aren’t necessary; you can fold them in half and crimp the edges instead.
Gyoza are distinguished from other Asian dumplings by their cooking method. First, they’re lightly browned in oil. Then, water/broth is added to the pan, which is covered to steam until the filling is cooked. Next, the pan is uncovered to let the dumplings pan-fry until the bottoms crisp up. This steam-fry method preserves their juiciness. And that’s gyoza in a nutshell! Or should a dumpling?
