Chicken Gyozas

For the Filling:**

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1 cup green cabbage, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped (or any mushroom of your choice)
• 1/4 cup green onions (scallions), finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gyoza Wrappers:

• 20 round gyoza wrappers (store-bought or homemade)

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water

For Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped cabbage, chopped mushrooms, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

1. Assemble the Gyozas:

• Lay one gyoza wrapper on a clean, flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of the wrapper.
• Dampen the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your finger.
• Fold the wrapper in half to form a semicircle, pressing the edges together to seal. Pleat the edges for a decorative touch if desired.
• Repeat this process until all the filling is used.

1. Cook the Gyozas:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, place the gyozas in the skillet, flat side down. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
• Fry the gyozas for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
• Carefully add 1/2 cup of water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid. Be cautious, as the water will create steam and may cause splattering.
• Allow the gyozas to steam for about 5-7 minutes until the water has evaporated and the gyozas are cooked through.
• Remove the lid and let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms.

1. Make the Dipping Sauce:

• In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil (if using). Adjust to taste.

1. Serve:

• Serve the gyozas hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken gyozas!