Vegan Shiitake and Tofu Gyoza

Vegan Shiitake and Tofu Gyoza

Prep: 30 min • Cook: 15 min. A flavorful vegetarian option, these gyoza showcase the umami-rich taste of shiitake mushrooms and firm tofu, expertly combined with crunchy napa cabbage, fresh chives, and pungent ginger. Each gyoza is pan-fried to achieve a delightful crisp exterior, yielding a satisfying texture contrast to the juicy filling inside. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, these plant-based dumplings are a delicious homage to traditional Japanese gyoza.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
15 min
Total time
45 min
Servings
40

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the crumbled firm tofu, finely chopped shiitake mushrooms, shredded napa cabbage, minced chives, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and black pepper.
  2. 2Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when squeezed.

Assemble the Gyoza

  1. 1Lay a gyoza wrapper flat in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
  2. 2Moisten the edge of half of the wrapper with a little water using your finger.
  3. 3Fold the wrapper in half to create a crescent shape. Pleat one side of the wrapper and press it against the unpleated side to seal firmly, ensuring no gaps.
  4. 4Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling, placing the assembled gyoza on a lightly floured baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Cook the Gyoza

  1. 1Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. 2Arrange a single layer of gyoza in the hot skillet, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
  3. 3Pour about 1/4 cup of water into the skillet, immediately cover with a lid, and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the water has evaporated and the gyoza wrappers are translucent.
  4. 4Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms again. Repeat with the remaining gyoza, adding more oil and water as needed.

Prepare Dipping Sauce and Serve

  1. 1Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil (if using) in a small bowl for the dipping sauce.
  2. 2Serve the hot vegan shiitake and tofu gyoza immediately with the dipping sauce.

Nutrition Information

Calories
75 kcal
Protein
4 g
Fat
2 g
Carbs
10 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories75 kcal
Protein4 g
Fat2 g
Carbs10 g

Tips

  • Ensure tofu is well-pressed to remove excess water; this prevents a soggy filling and allows flavors
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches for perfectly crispy gyoza.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a garnish of finely sliced green onions for extra f

By Chef Michael Ilin