The cast iron dumpling pan, also known as a gyoza pan or potsticker pan, originated in Japan. Gyoza is a type of dumpling commonly found in Japanese cuisine, and the pan specifically designed for cooking gyoza became popular in Japan.
The gyoza pan is typically made of cast iron, which provides excellent heat retention and distribution. It features a flat bottom with shallow, round depressions or wells, allowing the dumplings to cook evenly and develop a crispy bottom while keeping the filling tender.
Gyoza pans have since gained popularity worldwide, particularly in Asian cooking and among enthusiasts of dumplings and potstickers. They are now commonly used in various cuisines beyond Japan to prepare different types of dumplings.