#Japan #Tokyo #New Quick #NQ LAB #Gyoza Class

New Quick's NQ LAB: A Flavorful Gyoza Adventure

On July 11, 2026, New Quick, a specialty meat retailer with 82 locations across Japan, held its fifth installment of the NQ LAB event, titled "Gyoza Skin Masterclass." This interactive workshop was designed for members of the LOVES MEAT Community, offering a delightful hands-on experience in crafting gyoza helped by experts from a leading gyoza skin manufacturer.

Introducing NQ LAB

NQ LAB serves as a platform for meat enthusiasts to learn about meat-related knowledge, cooking tips, and to partake in engaging interactive sessions. The fifth edition featured a gyoza-making class aimed at both novices and seasoned enthusiasts looking to refine their technique.

Gyoza Culture and Techniques

The event began with an introduction to New Quick and its mission, followed by a mini-lecture by Mr. Fujii from Kisaiichi Food Co., who shared fascinating insights into gyoza culture. Attendees learned that while boiled dumplings are more popular in China, Japan favors pan-fried gyoza. The session shed light on the cultural significance of gyoza as a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture, where it's said that wrapping gyoza also symbolizes wrapping up happiness.

Participants got to work with two distinct types of gyoza skins: one made with North American wheat, known for its firmness, and another thicker variety using domestic wheat, highlighting the different textures and flavors that can enhance the gyoza-making process. The gyoza filling featured New Quick's private brand pork, Unzen Clean Pork, recognized for its low-fat content and mild flavor, enriching the overall gyoza experience.

Hands-On Gyoza Creation

Following the educational segment, participants donned aprons and transitioned to the test kitchen for a practical session on gyoza making. Guided by an instructor, they learned key techniques such as the appropriate amount of filling, skin orientation, and wrapping pressure required to achieve the perfect dumpling. An innovative wrapping technique was introduced, wherein participants learned to modify the method they typically used, leading to visually stunning results reminiscent of restaurant-quality gyoza.

As they prepared their gyoza, attendees discovered that gyoza skins are often ellipsoidal rather than perfectly round, and that the direction of the skin can alter the final product's aesthetic. Tips for creating aesthetic pleats and practical advice on pan-frying options for fresh and frozen gyoza enriched the learning experience.

During the cooking process, which involved using a hot plate with sesame oil and a steaming technique, the tantalizing aroma of the gyoza filled the room. Anticipation grew among participants as they eagerly awaited their first taste.

Savoring the Results

After cooking, participants tasted the gyoza they had crafted, which led to lively discussions about texture, cooking methods, and personal tips on gyoza making at home. Additionally, a unique dessert twist involved boiling gyoza skins and pairing them with black syrup and soybean flour, allowing attendees to explore the versatility of gyoza ingredients.

New Quick prioritizes direct customer engagement through face-to-face interactions at its retail outlets. The NQ LAB initiative extends this dialogue outside the stores, allowing customers to gain a richer understanding of food through the experiences of learning, cooking, and tasting.

Looking ahead

Continuing on its journey of promoting the joys of food, New Quick plans to host NQ LAB events periodically. This is their commitment to creating enjoyable, informative opportunities for their customers.

Participant Feedback

Several participants shared their thoughts, noting surprises such as:

• - How different ingredients impact gyoza texture and flavor.
• - Enjoying the hands-on experience led to newfound interests in gyoza-making at home.
• - Learning unique ways to utilize leftover skins for desserts.

Event Summary

• - Event Title: NQ LAB: Gyoza Skin Masterclass
• - Date: July 11, 2026, 11:00-12:30 & 14:00-15:30 (two sessions)
• - Location: New Quick Nakayado Test Kitchen, Itabashi, Tokyo
• - Participants: Limited to 12 passionate gyoza enthusiasts (6 per session)
• - Cost: Free; transportation costs incurred by participants

New Quick aims to maintain its commitment to fresh quality and customer interaction, evolving the way Japanese consumers connect with their love for meat.