Siomay Ayam: A Delightful Chicken Dumpling Recipe
Siomay Ayam, a savory and fragrant Indonesian chicken dumpling, is a delightful treat for any occasion. This recipe combines finely minced chicken fillet with a blend of fresh vegetables and seasonings, all encased in delicate wonton wrappers. The result is a deliciously steamed dumpling that’s perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Let’s walk through the steps to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- 1/2 kg chicken breast fillet
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (daun bawang)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (bawang bombay)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (bawang putih)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 7 tablespoons tapioca flour (tepung tapioka)
- 2 carrots, one grated and one finely chopped
- 1 pack wonton wrappers (kulit pangsit)
- Salt, chicken bouillon powder, and black pepper to taste
- Chicken broth (air kaldu ayam) for steaming
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by finely chopping the chicken breast fillet until it reaches a smooth, almost paste-like consistency. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can leave it slightly coarser, but aim for a fine mince to ensure the mixture holds together well. -
-
Chop Vegetables:
Dice the carrots and onions into small pieces. Grate one of the carrots for added texture and visual appeal in the dumplings. Chop the scallions finely. -
Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced chicken with the chopped carrots, scallions, and onions. Add the minced garlic, sesame oil, oyster sauce, and the egg. Sprinkle in the black pepper, chicken bouillon powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly. -
Incorporate Tapioca Flour:
Gradually add the tapioca flour to the mixture, stirring continuously to ensure it is evenly distributed. The flour helps to bind the mixture together, so it should be well incorporated into the chicken and vegetable blend. -
Season and Taste:
Once the mixture is well combined, taste a small amount to adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you desire a bit more flavor, you can add additional salt or pepper. -
Assemble the Siomay:
Take a wonton wrapper and place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Sprinkle a small amount of grated carrot on top of the filling for extra color and texture. Fold the edges of the wrapper around the filling and press to seal, ensuring there are no gaps. -
Prepare for Steaming:
Set up your steamer or a steaming rack over a pot of simmering chicken broth. The broth will impart additional flavor to the dumplings as they cook. Arrange the filled siomay in the steamer, making sure they are not touching to allow for even steaming. -
Steam the Dumplings:
Steam the siomay for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the dumplings are tender. The steaming process will cook the filling and soften the wonton wrappers. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once steamed, carefully remove the siomay from the steamer. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated carrots or a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Siomay Ayam
- Fine Texture: For a smooth filling, ensure that the chicken is minced finely. A food processor can make this task easier and more consistent.
- Flavor Adjustments: Taste the filling before assembling to make sure it’s well-seasoned. Adjust with more salt or pepper as needed.
- Steaming: Ensure that the water or broth in the steamer does not touch the dumplings. This helps to keep the wrappers from becoming soggy.
- Serving: Siomay Ayam pairs wonderfully with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili for an extra kick.
Enjoy the savory flavors and tender texture of these homemade Siomay Ayam. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat, these chicken dumplings are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!
