Gau Gee is a beloved Hawaiian treat—crispy on the outside, savory and juicy on the inside. Similar to deep-fried wontons, these pork and shrimp dumplings pack a flavor punch that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a crunchy, protein-packed snack.
With a quick filling of shrimp, pork, and water chestnuts, you can fold, fry, and enjoy these golden bites in under an hour. Serve them with soy sauce, hot mustard, or sweet and sour sauce for a versatile appetizer that disappears fast!
Look at the Recipe
- Crispy golden exterior with a juicy pork and shrimp filling
- Quick and satisfying finger food for parties or game day
- Easy to prep in advance and fry when ready
Ingredients Needed
Filling:
- ½ pound ground pork
- ½ pound shrimp, peeled and diced
- ½ of an 8-ounce can (about 8 pieces) water chestnuts, diced
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp white pepper
Assembly:
- 32 square wonton wrappers
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Soy sauce with hot mustard
- Duck sauce
- Sweet and sour sauce
How to Make Our Gau Gee
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients (pork, shrimp, water chestnuts, green onions, garlic, cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper). Mix until well incorporated.
Step 2: Assemble the Gau Gee
- Place one wonton wrapper on a flat surface.
- Spoon about 2 teaspoons of filling into the center.
- Lightly moisten all four edges with water and fold the wrapper in half, forming a rectangular pouch.
- Seal edges firmly and press out any air pockets. Repeat for all wrappers.
Step 3: Fry
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Deep-fry each gau gee for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve hot, either plain or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Best enjoyed fresh, crispy and warm.
- Can be prepped in advance: assemble and freeze uncooked gau gee; fry straight from frozen when needed.
- Perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or protein-rich finger food.
Tips & FAQs (SEO-Optimized)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the gau gee and freeze them on a tray. Fry directly from frozen for best texture.
Q: Can I make them healthier?
A: Use lean ground pork or substitute part of the pork with extra shrimp. Air frying reduces oil absorption while keeping them crispy.
Q: Can I use other fillings?
A: Chicken, beef, or a vegetarian mix with tofu and mushrooms works beautifully.
Q: How do I get them extra crispy?
A: Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.
