Gyoza, the delightful Japanese dumplings, are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. With a crispy bottom and a tender top, these little pockets of goodness are filled with seasoned ground meat and vegetables. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a main course, this gyoza recipe will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into the delicious world of gyoza making!
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup water
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying

Servings and Cooking Time
This gyoza recipe makes approximately 24 dumplings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for cooking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 gyoza) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 10g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
2. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix the ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
7. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add the gyoza, flat side down.
8. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
9. Add a splash of water to the pan and cover to steam for 5 minutes.
10. Remove the lid and cook until the water evaporates. Serve hot.

Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Cabbage can also be replaced with spinach or mushrooms for different flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Gyoza can be served with soy sauce, chili oil, or a vinegar dip. Pair them with a light salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover gyoza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in a pan or steamed. Gyoza can also be frozen before cooking; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overfilling the gyoza can lead to bursting while cooking.
- Not sealing them properly may cause leakage during frying.
- Using too much water when steaming can make them soggy.
- Not resting the dough can result in tough wrappers.
- Frying at too high a temperature can burn the bottoms.
Helpful Tips
- Use a rolling pin to ensure even thickness of the wrappers.
- Keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Experiment with different fillings for variety.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for more flavor.

FAQs
Can I make gyoza ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare gyoza in advance and freeze them. Just ensure they are separated and stored properly to prevent sticking.
What is the best way to cook gyoza?
The best way to cook gyoza is by pan-frying followed by steaming. This gives them a crispy bottom and a soft top.
Can I use store-bought wrappers?
Yes, using store-bought gyoza wrappers can save time and effort. Just ensure they are fresh for the best results.
What can I use instead of pork?
You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian mix of tofu and vegetables as a filling alternative.
How do I know when gyoza are cooked?
Gyoza are done when they are golden brown on the bottom and the filling is cooked through. You can cut one open to check.
Conclusion
Making gyoza at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy these delicious dumplings anytime. Experiment with fillings and dipping sauces to create your own unique version of this beloved dish. Happy cooking!

Gyoza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten each ball into a thin circle.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add the gyoza, flat side down.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
- Add a splash of water to the pan and cover to steam for 5 minutes.
- Remove the lid and cook until the water evaporates. Serve hot.