Making your own gyoza is a great idea because it:

1) uses up odds and ends of veg

2) is loads of fun folding delectably squidgy dough discs in different shapes (it’s basically edible origami)

3) is a great group activity for all ages (yay organised fun)

4) makes loads in one go and they freeze perfectly to cook up at any time (drunk cooking after a night out never tasted so good)

5) they are inexpensive but look fancyyyy and impressive

6) they are vegan

7) they are healthy

8) they are delicious

Damn it now I want dumplings. Let’s do this.

But first a quick disclaimer. Much like origami, dumpling folding is an art and takes time to perfect. What I am trying to say is don’t expect restaurant ready gyoza on the first try. If they come out looking like a burrito that has been run over by a tractor, that is ok! (My first few tries at folding gyoza had me down in the dumplings a bit.) Regardless of their appearance they will be delicious, and before you know it your dumplings will be on the front cover of Vogue.

A couple of top tips from me:

1) buy the wrappers if you are short of time/ have a social life

2) roll the wrappers thin if making by hand and cut out with a cookie cutter.

3) cut the veg as finely as your patience (or lack thereof) permits.

4) don’t rush the process - it is meant to be relaxing. Make sure you are well fed and caffeinated so you don’t get hangry at the poor little dumplings. I like to listen to music or an audiobook at the same time.