Smash Gyoza – Clara quick dinners

Smash Gyoza is a modern, no-fuss twist on traditional Japanese dumplings. Instead of painstakingly folding each dumpling, the filling is smashed directly onto a hot skillet and topped with a gyoza wrapper, creating a crispy, golden crust and juicy center. It’s an easy, fast, and delicious way to enjoy all the best parts of gyoza—minus the labor-intensive prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No folding required—just smash and cook
• Crispy, golden bottoms and juicy, flavorful filling
• Quick to make, ready in under 30 minutes
• Versatile for dipping, snacking, or as a main dish
• Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup green cabbage, finely shredded
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ lb ground pork or chicken
• ⅓ cup finely grated carrot
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 8–10 gyoza wrappers

For serving:

• Soy sauce or gyoza dipping sauce
• Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Salt the cabbage: Mix shredded cabbage with salt in a small bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess water using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth.
2. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine ground meat, cabbage, carrot, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Heat the pan: Add a thin layer of oil to a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Let it get hot, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Smash and cook: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the filling into the pan and flatten gently with a spatula. Top with a gyoza wrapper and press lightly to seal. Repeat, leaving space between each.
5. Steam and crisp: Cover the skillet and cook for 2 minutes to steam the wrappers. Remove the lid and continue cooking for 2–3 more minutes until the bottoms are crispy and golden.
6. Flip and finish: Carefully flip each gyoza and cook for another minute to crisp the other side.
7. Serve: Transfer to a plate and serve hot with dipping sauce and optional garnishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (makes 8–10 gyoza)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegan option: Use crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms instead of meat
• Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the filling
• Different fillings: Try ground turkey, shrimp, or even plant-based meat
• Mini version: Make smaller smash gyoza using half the filling per piece

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked gyoza in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to keep them crispy

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gyoza wrappers?

Yes! Round or square wrappers both work well for this recipe.

Do I need to cook the filling before smashing?

No, the meat cooks through in the pan. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before serving.

What’s the best pan to use?

A nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan works best to prevent sticking.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can mix the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

How do I get them super crispy?

Make sure the pan and oil are hot before adding the filling, and don’t overcrowd the skillet.

What dipping sauce works best?

Soy sauce, gyoza sauce, or a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil are great options.

Are these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I use a food processor for the filling?

Yes, pulse the veggies and meat separately, then mix together.

Can I add cheese?

Sure! A sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar before flipping adds a gooey twist.

What sides pair well with smash gyoza?

Serve with rice, miso soup, or a cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Smash Gyoza is the perfect way to enjoy crispy, juicy dumplings without the fuss of folding or sealing. With bold flavors, an irresistible texture, and fast prep, this dish is destined to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Serve them hot, dipped in your favorite sauce, and enjoy the best parts of gyoza—smashed!

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