Gyoza and dumplings are two popular Asian dishes that are often confused with one another. They share a lot of similar traits, such as their small size and stuffed fillings, making it quite difficult to distinguish between the two at a glance.
However, there are notable differences between them as well. So if you know what to look for, you don’t necessarily have to be familiar with Asian cuisine to know which one you should include in your dishes.
Gyoza is a Japanese type of dumpling filled with ground pork, vegetables, and seasonings. It is typically fried on one side and steamed on the other, resulting in a crispy bottom and a soft, tender top.
In contrast, dumplings are a Chinese dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including pork, chicken, vegetables, and seafood. It can be boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, depending on the texture you want for your dish.
These differences may seem minor, but they will have a significant impact on the flavor and texture of your food.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting to explore Asian cuisine, this guide will provide you with extremely valuable insights into the world of gyoza and dumplings.
The 9 Main Differences Between Gyoza and Dumplings
If you are trying to prepare an authentic Asian-inspired dinner at home, you have to choose the dishes you will make carefully. However, it can be quite challenging to differentiate between gyoza and dumplings without prior knowledge.
So to help you create a wonderful dining experience, below is a list of the main differences between these two delicious Asian dishes.
1. Origin
Both gyoza and dumplings are dishes that evolved over a long period of time. Gyoza was believed to have originated in the 1940s when it was introduced by Chinese immigrants living in Japan.
Dumplings, on the other hand, originated in China more than 1,800 years ago during the Han Dynasty.
As such, it shouldn’t be surprising that dumplings have more variety and cultural significance than gyoza, given their long history and deeper roots in Asian cuisine.
2. Wrapper
One of the most significant differences between gyoza and dumplings is the type of wrapper used for them.
Gyoza wrappers are made by mixing wheat flour, salt, and water. The dough is then rolled out into thin circles, which are then filled and folded into shape.
In contrast, dumpling wrappers are made using a combination of wheat flour, water, and sometimes eggs, resulting in a thicker dough than gyoza wrappers. So they are generally heartier and more filling to the stomach when eaten.
3. Filling
The filling for gyoza is typically prepared by mixing ground pork, cabbage, garlic, and ginger. The flavors are then allowed to meld for a short period of time so they become more incorporated and delicious.
Dumpling fillings, on the other hand, can contain pork, beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables that have been marinated or stir-fried prior to wrapping. As such, it typically requires a longer preparation time.
However, it is important to consider that these ingredients can vary depending on the recipe and your personal preferences.
4. Cooking Method
Another key difference between gyoza and dumplings is the way they are cooked.
Gyoza is typically fried on one side before water is added to steam them to completion. The end result is a unique Asian dish that is both crunchy and tender at the same time, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft filling inside.
In contrast, dumplings are often just boiled or steamed until they are fully cooked and tender. This method is simpler and faster, but it won’t be crispy like gyoza.
5. Shape
The shape of gyoza and dumplings is one of the easiest ways to differentiate between the two. Gyoza is traditionally crescent-shaped, with pleats on one side to help seal the filling inside.
On the other hand, dumplings come in a variety of shapes, but they are typically round with a crimped edge, rectangular, or even crescent-shaped as well.
6. Sauce
The sauce for gyoza is traditionally made by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. But for dumplings, the sauce is often made with sesame oil instead.
This subtle difference plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor of each dish.
Adding chili oil to the sauce of gyoza gives it a kick of heat and additional spice while using sesame oil gives the dumplings a nutty flavor and aroma that complements its fillings more.
7. Seasonings
One of the main differences between gyoza and dumplings is the range of seasonings used in their fillings. Gyoza is relatively simple, with the only ingredients being soy sauce, sake, and sesame oil.
On the other hand, dumpling fillings are typically incorporated with a broader range of seasonings, including garlic, ginger, scallions, and cilantro, among others.
Because of this, the fillings used in dumplings have a more complex flavor profile than the ones used in gyoza.
8. Size
Gyoza is generally smaller in size compared to dumplings, with each piece usually measuring around 3-4 cm in diameter. In comparison, dumplings can be made in various sizes, ranging from small bite-sized pieces to larger ones that can fit in a spoon.
9. Texture
Since the wrappers used to make gyoza are typically thinner and fried, they are crispier on the outside and juicy inside.
In contrast, dumpling wrappers are usually thicker and chewier, and the filling can be either moist or dry depending on the type of dumpling.
Final Thoughts
Gyoza and dumplings are two delicious Asian dishes that share many similarities but also have distinct differences.
By understanding the key differences between them, you will not only broaden your knowledge of and appreciation for Asian cuisine but also be able to make informed choices when selecting and preparing these delicious dishes at home.
So whether you prefer the crunchy and spicy flavor of gyoza or the tender and savory taste of dumplings, these two dishes will surely delight your taste buds and provide you with a satisfying dining experience.
