Crispy Pork and Cabbage Gyoza with Dipping Sauce

1. Prepare the cabbage

Add the finely minced Napa cabbage and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt to a large bowl. Let the cabbage sit for about 15 minutes until it appears wilted. This step draws out moisture from the cabbage, which is essential to avoid soggy dumplings. After the cabbage has wilted, transfer it to a clean dish towel and twist it to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. Prepare the filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, drained cabbage, the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt, white pepper, garlic, ginger, scallions, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture feels tacky and sticky. This homogenous mixture ensures that every bite is full of flavor. To test the seasoning, microwave a teaspoon-sized amount of the filling on high for about 10 seconds and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

3. Set up dumpling-making station

Set up your dumpling-making station by arranging a small bowl of water, a clean dish towel, the bowl of dumpling filling, a parchment-lined baking sheet, and the dumpling wrappers covered in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. To form the dumplings, place about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edge with water, then seal and pleat the edges to form a crescent shape with a pleated edge. Proper sealing prevents leaks during cooking.

4. Freeze the dumplings (optional)

If you wish to freeze the dumplings, place them on the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to a zipper-lock freezer bag for storage.

5. Cook the dumplings

To cook the dumplings, heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil. Place the dumplings in the skillet and cook until they are golden brown on the bottom, which should take about 1.5 minutes. Add a quarter cup of water to the skillet, cover, and let the dumplings steam for about 3 minutes. Once the water has evaporated, remove the lid and continue cooking until the bottoms are crispy again, about 2 more minutes.

6. Prepare the dipping sauce

For the dipping sauce, simply combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil in a bowl.

7. Serve the dumplings

Finally, slide the dumplings onto a plate, ensuring the crisped side is facing up, and serve them immediately with the dipping sauce. Enjoy the perfect balance of a tender filling and a crispy exterior.