Chicken Dim Sum Steamed Recipe: Delicious and Easy

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisite Chicken Dim Sum Steamed recipe, a dish that embodies the perfect harmony of delicate textures and bold flavors. As one of the most cherished dishes in Asian cuisine, dim sum offers a delightful experience that combines artful craftsmanship with comforting tastes. This particular rendition, crafted with love and attention to detail, features tender ground chicken seasoned with aromatic spices, nestled within silky homemade wrappers. The addition of a vibrant coriander salsa elevates the dish, providing a fresh, herbal contrast that tantalizes the palate. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering, an intimate family dinner, or simply exploring the rich tapestry of Asian flavors, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Love With Recipes, your trusted culinary partner, brings you a comprehensive guide to mastering this classic delicacy, ensuring every step is clear and every flavor is maximized for an unforgettable dining experience.

Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or round cookie cutter (about 3 inches diameter)
• Steamer basket (bamboo or metal)
• Parchment paper or silicone steaming mats
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls for salsa
• Blanching pot (or large saucepan)
• Juicer or citrus squeezer (for lime)
• Cloth towel or kitchen towel (to cover dough)

Tags

Asian cuisine, Dim sum, Steamed food, Chicken recipes, Appetizer, Party food, Homemade wrappers, Healthy, Quick

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 24 individual dim sum pieces, designed to serve 6-8 people as part of a larger meal or as part of a dim sum platter. Each person can enjoy 3-4 pieces, complemented by the refreshing coriander salsa and other side dishes.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the process involves multiple steps—from dough preparation to assembly and steaming—attention to detail and patience will lead to impressive results. Beginners comfortable with dough handling and steaming techniques will find this recipe rewarding; those new to Asian cuisine may need to familiarize themselves with the basics of dough rolling and filling shaping.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Wheat (gluten), Shellfish (oyster sauce contains shellfish derivatives), Garlic, Onion, Chili peppers
• Possible cross-contamination: If prepared in a shared kitchen, consider allergen precautions accordingly.

Dietary Preference

Contains meat; not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting wheat flour with gluten-free flour blends, but texture may vary. For low-sodium diets, reduce or omit oyster sauce and salt, substituting with alternative flavor enhancers such as mushroom soy or homemade broth powders.

Course

Appetizer, Snack, Party Food

Cuisine

Asian, Chinese-inspired

Ingredients

For the Dough/Wrappers

For the Filling

For the Coriander Salsa

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Creating a perfect wrapper begins with a simple yet crucial process. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon (5g) of salt, whisking them together to ensure even distribution. Gradually add the very hot water—about 3/4 cup (180ml)—to the flour mixture, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula. The hot water helps to gelatinize the surface of the flour, making the dough tender and pliable. As you stir, you’ll notice the dough starting to come together in a shaggy mass. When it becomes too difficult to stir with a spoon, transfer it onto a clean, lightly floured surface for kneading.

Knead the dough for approximately 5 minutes, applying firm but gentle pressure, until it forms a smooth, cohesive ball. The dough should be slightly stiff but not sticky. If you find it too sticky, dust lightly with extra flour; if too dry, add small splashes of water until the desired consistency is achieved. Shape the dough into a flat disc, cover it with a damp cloth or kitchen towel, and allow it to rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Resting relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out and shaping more manageable.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

While the dough is resting, focus on creating the flavorful chicken filling. In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 tablespoon (15ml) of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until translucent and fragrant. The onion’s sweetness will develop, providing a flavor base for the filling.

Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with your spatula, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Cook until the chicken turns white and is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. The key is to ensure the chicken is cooked through but remains moist. Incorporate 4 tablespoons (60ml) of oyster sauce, which adds depth and umami, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Then, add the finely chopped spring onions, peeled and chopped tomatoes, chopped red chili pepper, minced garlic, and cumin powder. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften.

Once cooked, transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. This prevents the filling from making the dough soggy and ensures proper sealing later. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or more oyster sauce if desired.

Step 3: Making the Coriander Salsa

Prepare a vibrant and refreshing salsa that will serve as the perfect accompaniment and dip for your dim sum. Start by blanching the peeled tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds to loosen their skins. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel off the skins, then deseed the tomatoes to remove excess moisture, which can make the salsa watery. Finely chop the peeled and deseeded tomatoes.

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes with 1 small chopped red chili, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 teaspoon of cumin powder, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander leaves. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lime and season with salt to taste. Mix thoroughly and set aside. This salsa should be vibrant, slightly spicy, and herbaceous, balancing the richness of the chicken filling beautifully.

Step 4: Assembling the Dim Sum

Once the dough has rested and the filling and salsa are ready, it’s time to assemble the dim sum. Lightly flour a clean work surface and your rolling pin. Divide the rested dough into 24 equal portions. To do this accurately, cut the dough into quarters, then divide each quarter into six smaller pieces, giving you 24 pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten into a disk.

Using the rolling pin, roll each ball into a thin circle approximately 3 inches (7.5cm) in diameter. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and an attractive appearance. If the dough tends to spring back or tear, let it rest covered for a few more minutes before proceeding. Keep the rolled wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

Step 5: Filling and Shaping

Place a small spoonful (about 1 teaspoon) of the cooled chicken filling in the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your finger or a pastry brush. Carefully pinch the edges together, gathering the dough around the filling to form a pouch. Pinch or fold the edges to seal securely, ensuring no filling leaks out during steaming. You can shape the dim sum into traditional crescent shapes, small pouches, or even round balls, depending on your preference and skill level.

If you prefer a quick method, you can use ready-made wonton wrappers, which are thinner and save time. Just place filling in the center and fold according to package instructions, sealing with a dab of water.

Step 6: Steaming

Prepare your steamer by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing the steaming basket to prevent sticking. If using parchment paper, punch small holes or cut small squares; this allows steam to circulate freely. Arrange the assembled dim sums in the steamer, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece to allow for expansion. Cover the steamer with a lid or a clean kitchen towel.

Bring water in the steaming pot or wok to a boil over high heat. Place the steamer basket over the boiling water and steam the dim sum for 10-15 minutes. The wrappers should become slightly translucent and tender when done, and the filling will be cooked thoroughly. Avoid over-steaming, which can cause the wrappers to become mushy.

Step 7: Serving

Carefully remove the dim sum from the steamer and transfer to a serving platter. Serve hot, accompanied by the coriander salsa for dipping or spooning over the dim sum for added flavor. The dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a light Asian-style salad, completing a delightful meal experience.

Preparation Tips

• Rest the dough: Do not skip the resting period; it ensures the dough is pliable and easy to work with.
• Control filling moisture: Let the filling cool completely to prevent soggy wrappers.
• Seal tightly: Proper sealing prevents filling from escaping during steaming, ensuring each bite is perfect.
• Use parchment paper: Lining the steamer prevents sticking and maintains the shape of delicate dim sum.
• Experiment with shapes: Have fun shaping your dim sum—pleats, folds, or pouches—each adds a unique touch.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Chill the filling: For easier handling, refrigerate the filling for 10-15 minutes before assembly.
• Uniform size: Using a cookie cutter for the wrappers ensures consistent size and shape.
• Enhance flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of white pepper into the filling for added depth.
• Steaming variations: For extra aroma, add a few slices of ginger or scallions into the steaming water.
• Make ahead: Assemble the dim sum in advance, then refrigerate and steam just before serving.

Add-ons

• Extra dipping sauces: soy sauce, chili oil, or black vinegar
• Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil
• Sesame seeds sprinkled on top before steaming for added texture

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice
• Asian-style cucumber salad with rice vinegar
• Stir-fried greens with garlic
• Spring rolls or other dim sum varieties

Improvements

• Use a food processor to finely chop ingredients for a more cohesive filling.
• Incorporate finely shredded vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shrimp, pork, or a vegetarian mix.
• Add a touch of five-spice powder or ginger for a more complex flavor profile.

Save and Store

Uncooked dim sum can be assembled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To freeze, arrange the dim sum on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, flash freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Steaming directly from frozen will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Cooked leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated by steaming or microwaving.

FAQ

Can I make the wrappers ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before rolling out.

Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers?

Absolutely. They simplify the process and yield excellent results, especially for beginners. Just ensure they are fresh and moist before filling.

How do I prevent the dim sum from sticking during steaming?

Line the steamer with parchment paper or lightly oil the basket. Make sure to leave space between each piece to prevent sticking and allow for expansion.

What are some vegetarian alternatives?

Replace chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or finely chopped vegetables. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce for seasoning.

Conclusion

This Chicken Dim Sum Steamed recipe is a testament to the art of Chinese culinary tradition, blending simple ingredients with precise techniques to create something truly special. The process from scratch—making the dough, preparing the filling, shaping, and steaming—is a rewarding experience that yields a dish perfect for sharing. The addition of coriander salsa provides a fresh and zesty counterpoint, making each bite memorable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these homemade dim sums elevate any meal with their elegance and comforting flavors. Love With Recipes hopes this guide inspires you to explore the beautiful world of dim sum cooking, encouraging creativity and culinary confidence. Dive into this recipe, enjoy every step, and relish the delicious results that bring people together around the table.

References

• “Dim Sum: The Art of Chinese Tea Lunch,” by Hon-Ming Cheung, 2010.
• “The Dim Sum Field Guide,” by Carolyn Phillips, 2014.