The Difference Between Gyoza, Dumplings and Potstickers
- Lung Wah Chong
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
If you've ever looked at an Asian menu and wondered about the difference between gyoza, dumplings, and potstickers, you're not alone. While they may look similar, each has its own origin, cooking method, and texture.
What Are Dumplings?
"Dumpling" is a broad term used to describe small parcels of dough filled with ingredients such as meat, seafood, or vegetables. Dumplings are enjoyed across many Asian countries, with each region offering its own unique style.
They can be:
Steamed
Boiled
Pan-fried
Deep-fried
Because of this variety, gyoza and potstickers are both types of dumplings.
What Are Gyoza?
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings made with thin wrappers and typically filled with pork, cabbage, garlic, ginger, and spring onions.
They are most commonly cooked by pan-frying the base until crispy before adding water to steam the filling, creating a crispy bottom with a soft, tender top.
Gyoza are often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chilli oil.
What Are Potstickers?
Potstickers originated in China and are closely related to jiaozi, a traditional Chinese dumpling.
Like gyoza, they're usually pan-fried and steamed in the same pan. However, potstickers are often:
Slightly larger
Made with a thicker wrapper
Filled with a wider variety of meats and vegetables
Their name comes from the crispy base that can stick to the pan during cooking.
Gyoza vs Potstickers: What's the Difference?
Gyoza | Potstickers |
Originated in Japan | Originated in China |
Thin wrapper | Slightly thicker wrapper |
Usually smaller | Usually larger |
Finely chopped filling | Chunkier filling |
Crispy base with soft top | Crispy base with chewy texture |
Although they're very similar, the differences come down to their origins, wrapper thickness, and filling style.
Which Should You Choose?
Whether you prefer Japanese gyoza or Chinese potstickers comes down to personal taste.
Gyoza are ideal if you enjoy a lighter, crispier bite, while potstickers offer a heartier texture with generous fillings.
Both make a delicious starter, side dish, or sharing platter and can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces.
Discover Asian Dumplings at Lung Wah Chong
At Lung Wah Chong, we supply a range of high-quality frozen Asian foods, including gyoza, dumplings, and other authentic favourites for restaurants, retailers, and foodservice businesses across the UK.
