# 餃子 (Jiaozi): Japanese-Style Dumplings

## Description:
Jiaozi, known in Japan as 餃子 (Gyoza), are traditional Chinese dumplings that have become a beloved dish in Japanese cuisine. These soft, pillowy dumplings are typically filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, then steamed or pan-fried until golden brown. They are often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

## Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
   - Combine the ground pork, cabbage, scallions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
   - Prepare the wrappers by unrolling the gyoza wrappers (wontons) on a clean surface. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

2. **Filling and Shaping:**
   - Using your hands, divide the filling mixture into small portions and roll them into balls.
   - Place a ball of filling in the center of each gyoza wrapper, leaving a small border around the edges.
   - Dip your finger in water and trace a line around the filling, then fold the wrapper over and pinch the edges to seal, creating a pleated edge.

3. **Cooking:**
   - Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil.
   - Place the gyoza in the pan, seam-side down, and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
   - Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan, quickly cover with a lid, and let it steam for 3-4 minutes until the dumplings are fully cooked.
   - Remove the lid and gently press down on the dumplings to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate.

4. **Serving:**
   - Serve the gyoza hot with a dipping sauce made by mixing soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
   - Enjoy as a starter or as a main course with rice and miso soup.

## Allergens:
- Contains pork (ground pork)
- May contain gluten from wheat flour (in gyoza wrappers)
- Contains soy (soy sauce)

## Cooking Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
- Total: 30 minutes

## Substitutes:
- **Gyoza Wrappers:** If traditional gyoza wrappers are unavailable, you can substitute with square wonton wrappers or even make your own thin dough.
- **Ground Pork:** For a vegetarian option, substitute ground pork with a mix of mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of vegetables like grated carrots, cabbage, and bean sprouts.
- **Cabbage:** Red or green cabbage can be used as an alternative to the white cabbage called for in the recipe.
- **Soy Sauce:** Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as substitutes for soy sauce, especially for those with soy allergies.