Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Golden fried gyoza filled with crumbled tofu and mixed vegetables, paired with a bold, spicy sesame dipping sauce for a satisfying vegetarian snack. This japanese-inspired dumplings (vegetarian) ready in about 45 minutes pairs firm tofu, carrot, green cabbage for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Japanese cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 200 g crumbled firm tofu, 1 finely grated carrot, 100 g finely shredded green cabbage, 2 chopped green onions, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp ground black pepper. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
  2. Step 2: Lay one gyoza wrapper flat, place 1 tsp of tofu-vegetable filling in the center, moisten edges with water, fold in half, and pinch pleats to seal securely. Repeat with remaining filling.
  3. Step 3: Heat 3 cups vegetable oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the gyoza in batches for 3-4 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Step 4: For the dipping sauce, whisk together 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce, 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, and 1 tbsp soy sauce until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Serve the hot fried tofu gyoza with the spicy sesame dipping sauce for a crunchy and flavorful vegetarian delight.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (30 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep firm tofu from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Deep-Fried Tofu and Vegetable Gyoza with Spicy Sesame Dipping Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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