# Smash Gyoza: The Simple Way to Savor Your Favorite Dumplings
If you’re a fan of gyoza but find the delicate folding of the small dumpling pockets daunting, smash gyoza is the ultimate answer for you! These open-faced dumplings encapsulate all the flavorful, umami essence of classic gyoza while being even crispier and ready to devour in no time.
## What are Smash Gyoza?
Smash gyoza can be regarded as deconstructed gyoza. Influenced by trending food phenomena like the smash Big Mac tacos, smash gyoza entails pressing the gyoza filling onto dumpling wrappers and cooking them without folding. This creative method lets you serve them akin to mini tacos, filled with rice, kimchi, or whatever toppings you prefer. In essence, smash gyoza brings all the cherished tastes of gyoza into a playful, innovative presentation.
## How to Prepare Smash Gyoza
Making smash gyoza is a simple endeavor that anyone can conquer. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. **Prep**: Mix chopped cabbage with a bit of salt and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes to become tender. Drain any excess moisture. Finely mince ginger and garlic, and chop green onions.
2. **Mix**: In a sizable bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Then, add ground meat, prepared cabbage, ginger, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and a touch of salt. Thoroughly mix, using gloves for easier handling.
3. **Cook**: Heat oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to deposit 1-2 tablespoons of gyoza filling into the pan, ensuring space between each one.
4. **Top**: Lay gyoza wrappers directly over the filling.
5. **Smash**: Gently press down on the gyoza wrapper with a spatula or the base of a heatproof glass, flattening the filling against the pan.
6. **Steam**: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of water into the pan and cover to steam for 1-2 minutes. Remove the lid and allow any remaining water to evaporate.
7. **Flip**: Turn the smash gyoza to crisp the other side. Once the wrappers are golden and crispy, they are ready for consumption!
8. **Enjoy**: Serve them open-faced, accompanied by a dip of soy sauce and rice vinegar, or fill them with rice and kimchi before folding them like a taco.
## Smash Gyoza Ingredients
To create smash gyoza, gather the following ingredients:
– **Gyoza wrappers**: Available at supermarkets, usually found in the refrigerated area. You may also craft your own or utilize wonton wrappers or small flour tortillas.
– **Ground pork**: This is the conventional choice for gyoza, although chicken, turkey, or even beef can be used as alternatives.
– **Cabbage**: Finely sliced cabbage contributes moisture to the filling. Be sure to salt and drain it to prevent sogginess.
– **Ginger and garlic**: Freshly minced ginger and garlic impart crucial flavor. Ground variants can work in a pinch, but fresh is recommended.
– **Green onions**: These provide a fresh, vibrant flavor.
– **Soy sauce and toasted sesame oil**: These serve as the primary seasonings, enhancing depth and richness.
– **Cornstarch**: This aids in binding the filling and adds a silky texture.
## What are Gyoza?
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings typically stuffed with ground pork, cabbage, and various seasonings, encased in a delicate dough. They are a cherished dish in Japan and have gained worldwide popularity. For more insights on traditional gyoza, explore our comprehensive guide [here](https://iamafoodblog.com/gyoza/).
## How Do You Consume Smash Gyoza?
Smash gyoza can be relished in numerous ways. Enjoy them open-faced, dipping them in your preferred sauce, or topping them with rice and kimchi, folding them for a delightful treat.