Siew mai, also known as shumai or shaomai, is a popular Chinese dish that originated from the Cantonese cuisine. These steamed dumplings are enjoyed as a dim sum dish and are often served as a starter or appetizer in Chinese restaurants. Siew mai is made up of a delicate and thin wrapper filled with a variety of ingredients, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish. In this article, we will provide you with a professional and well-organized introduction to the siew mai recipe, so you can recreate this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Baking Soda, Chinese Rice Wine, Sugar, Red
If you're a fan of crispy, juicy and flavorful meat, then this Chinese-style crispy roast pork (siew yoke) is a must-try. The secret to achieving the perfect crispy skin and tender meat is to marinate the pork belly overnight and then slow roast it in the oven. The end result is a succulent and irresistible dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
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HCP Char Siew (Chinese BBQ pork)
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder Butt, Hoisin Sauce, Rose Wine, Light Soy
This classic Chinese dish is a crowd-pleaser and for good reason. Tender and juicy pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to perfection. The result is a sticky and flavorful barbecue pork that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main dish or even in sandwiches. It's a versatile dish that is sure to impress.
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Chinese Roast Pork (siew Yuk)
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Garlic, Ginger, Ground White Pepper
This Chinese roast pork, also known as siew yuk, is a beloved dish in many Chinese households. The key to achieving the perfect siew yuk lies in the crispy skin that crackles with every bite. The pork is marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices and then roasted in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. It's a dish that will have you coming back for seconds.
This popular Chinese takeout dish is easy to make at home and is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and savory. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a tangy orange sauce, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and delicious meal.
A classic Chinese dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. Tender beef and crisp broccoli are stir-fried in a savory sauce, creating a delicious combination that can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.
A staple in Chinese cuisine, fried rice is a versatile dish that can be customized with your choice of protein and vegetables. The key to achieving the perfect fried rice is to use cold, cooked rice and to stir-fry it with a variety of seasonings and sauces. It's a great way to use up leftovers and makes for a satisfying meal on its own or as a side dish.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a flavorful and tender chicken dish, look no further than Chinese chicken thighs. Marinated in a combination of soy sauce, honey, and spices, these chicken thighs are baked to perfection in the oven. The result is a juicy and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice and vegetables.
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Chinese Pork Meatballs (Char Siew style)
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Cornstarch, Minced Ginger, Garlic Cloves
These Chinese-style pork meatballs are a delicious and easy dish to make for dinner. Ground pork is mixed with a variety of seasonings and then baked in the oven until golden brown. The addition of hoisin sauce gives these meatballs a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please.
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Chinese Roast Pork Belly - "Siew Yoke"
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Sea Salt, Miso, Ginger, Scotch Whisky
This Cantonese-style roast pork belly, also known as siew yoke, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. The pork belly is marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices and then roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. It's a dish that is perfect for special occasions or for when you want to impress your guests.
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Chinese BBQ Pork ‘Char Siew’ Noodles
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Choy Sum, Pork, Sambal Oelek, Spring
This noodle dish is a favorite in many Chinese households and is a great way to use up leftover char siew. Tender noodles are stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and topped with sliced char siew, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. It's a quick and easy dish that can be customized to your liking.
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Grilled Char Siew (Sticky Chinese Roast Pork)
Main Ingredients: Pork Neck, Salt, Sugar, Light Soy Sauce, Water, Dark
For a different take on char siew, try grilling it instead of roasting it. The result is a sticky and flavorful dish that is perfect for a barbecue or a weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will have your taste buds dancing with every bite.
This classic Chinese dish is a go-to option for many families. Tender chicken and crisp broccoli are stir-fried in a savory sauce, creating a balanced and delicious meal. It's a great way to get in your daily dose of vegetables and protein.
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Char Siew Bao (Steamed Barbecued Pork Buns)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Garlic, Onion, Carrot, Char Siew, Hoisin
If you're a fan of dim sum, then you've probably tried char siew bao before. These steamed buns are filled with a sweet and savory char siew filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors. They make for a great appetizer or snack and are surprisingly easy to make at home.
This simple yet flavorful soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine. The addition of beaten eggs creates a delicious and silky texture, while the addition of vegetables and seasonings make this soup a satisfying and comforting dish. It's perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather.
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Quick and Easy Char Siew (Chinese Barbecue Pork)
Main Ingredients: Ham, Hoisin Sauce, Honey, Brown Sugar, Sesame Oil, Five
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the flavors of char siew, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for you. It uses store-bought char siew sauce and only takes 30 minutes to make. The result is a delicious and flavorful dish that will have you coming back for more.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
This classic dish is a staple on Chinese takeout menus for a reason. Tender and juicy pork is stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and rice, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. It's a go-to option for many when they're craving Chinese takeout.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
For a simple and delicious side dish, try making egg fried rice at home. This dish is made by stir-frying eggs, rice, and a variety of vegetables and seasonings, resulting in a flavorful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side.
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Tofu Siu Mai (Vegetarian Chinese Dumplings)
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Mushroom, Spring Onions, Fine Salt, Sugar
If you're a fan of dim sum, then you've probably tried siu mai before. This vegetarian version uses tofu as a filling, making it a healthy and delicious option for those who don't eat meat. The dumplings are steamed and then served with a flavorful dipping sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or snack.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
For a finger-licking good dish, try making Chinese-style fried chicken wings at home. These wings are marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices and then fried until crispy and golden brown. They make for a great appetizer or can be served as a main dish with rice and vegetables.
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Garlic Char Siew (Chinese Barbecue Pork)
Main Ingredients: Minced Garlic, Oyster Sauce, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Shaoxing
This garlic char siew recipe takes the classic dish to a whole new level. The addition of garlic gives the dish a fragrant and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred and juicy pork. It's a dish that will impress your family and friends and have them asking for the recipe.
The Key Ingredients
When it comes to making siew mai, the key ingredients are the filling and the wrapper. The filling typically consists of ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and sometimes water chestnuts. These ingredients are finely chopped and mixed together with seasonings such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. The wrapper, on the other hand, is usually made from a combination of wheat flour and tapioca starch, giving it a soft and slightly chewy texture.
Expert Tip:
For a healthier option, you can also use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork and substitute the wheat flour with rice flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
The Preparation Process
To make siew mai, you will need to follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Making the Filling
Start by preparing the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and water chestnuts. Then add in the seasonings and mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Wrapping the Dumplings
Next, take a spoonful of the filling and place it in the center of a wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it in half to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to pleat and seal the edges together, leaving the top of the dumpling open.
Expert Tip:
To prevent the dumplings from sticking to the steamer, you can line the steamer basket with lettuce leaves or parchment paper.
Step 3: Steaming the Dumplings
Place the dumplings in a steamer basket and steam over high heat for about 8-10 minutes. The dumplings are ready when the filling is cooked through and the wrapper is translucent.
The Finishing Touches
Siew mai can be served as is, but for an extra burst of flavor, you can add a dollop of chili oil or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top before serving. You can also pair it with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar.
Now that you have the siew mai recipe, you can impress your friends and family with this delicious Chinese dish. With its delicate flavors and soft texture, siew mai is a must-try for any dim sum lover. Try out this recipe and let us know how it turned out for you!