Chicken Dimsums Recipe – Steamed Chicken Dumplings
Dimsums are universally loved appetizers that bring a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. These little pockets of joy, stuffed with a delicious spiced chicken filling, steal the spotlight on any dinner table. Steamed to perfection, they’re not only a treat to the taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. This Chicken Dimsums recipe ensures that you enjoy authentic flavors without much hassle, whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a special gathering. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and crisp spring onions encased in a delicate dough wrapper makes for an irresistible dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Perfect as appetizers or snacks, Chicken Dimsums are a delightful way to enjoy a high-protein, flavorful meal. Let’s get started on creating these bite-sized delights!
Ingredients
For the Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (minced) | 250 grams |
| Spring Onion (Bulb & Greens) | 2, finely chopped |
| Garlic (minced) | 7 cloves |
| Soy Sauce | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Dough
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Oil | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, take the all-purpose flour (maida) and add a pinch of salt.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil and start adding a little water at a time. Mix the ingredients together until you form a smooth dough.
- The dough should be soft, pliable, and should not stick to your hands. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a little water.
- Once you achieve the desired consistency, cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time will allow the dough to become more elastic, making it easier to work with.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced chicken, finely chopped spring onion (both the bulb and the greens), and minced garlic.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce to the mixture, and season with salt to taste.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the chicken mixture is well combined and evenly seasoned. The filling should have a balanced flavor, with the garlic and soy sauce adding depth.
Step 3: Assemble the Dimsums
- After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions, about the size of a marble. Roll each portion into a ball.
- Using a rolling pin, gently roll out each dough ball into a thin, circular wrapper. Aim for a size of about 3-4 inches in diameter. If necessary, sprinkle a little flour on the surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating the edges as you go to form a neat, closed pouch. Pinch the edges together tightly to ensure no filling escapes during steaming.
Step 4: Steam the Dimsums
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a steaming rack or a heatproof plate over a small amount of boiling water.
- Lightly grease the steamer basket with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent the dimsums from sticking.
- Carefully place the prepared dimsums into the steamer, ensuring they do not touch each other to avoid sticking.
- Steam the dimsums for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is fully cooked and the chicken filling is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Once the dimsums are done steaming, carefully remove them from the steamer. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or a spicy chili sauce. These chicken dimsums make for an ideal appetizer, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Enjoy the burst of umami from the soy sauce, the crunch of fresh spring onions, and the succulent chicken filling wrapped in a soft, chewy dough—perfect for any occasion!
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spicy food, add a touch of chili oil or chili flakes to the filling mixture for a zesty heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with finely chopped mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Simply season with soy sauce, garlic, and spring onions for a savory filling.
- Serving Ideas: Serve the dimsums with a side of pickled vegetables or a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil for added flavor.
These Chicken Dimsums are perfect for entertaining guests, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a homemade, protein-packed snack. Their versatility in flavors and fillings makes them a timeless classic in Asian cuisine.
