Har Gow: 8 Tips for Perfect Dim Sum Shrimp Dumplings
By Lisa Bot | Published 21 February 2025
What Is Har Gow?
Har gow, also known as crystal shrimp dumplings, is a popular Cantonese dim sum dish. These delicate dumplings are made with a translucent wrapper and a juicy shrimp or prawn filling.
Har gow is a staple at yum cha and is loved for its soft, chewy skin and flavourful interior.
Originating from Guangdong, China, har gow is a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Let’s take a look at 8 tips for perfect har gow.
Tip 1: Ingredients for Making Har Gow
To make authentic har gow, you’ll need:
For the wrapper:
- Wheat starch
- Tapioca starch
- Boiling water
- A small amount of oil
For the filling:
- Fresh shrimp / prawns (deveined and chopped)
- Bamboo shoots (finely minced)
- Sesame oil
- Ginger (grated)
- White pepper
- A pinch of salt and sugar
- Cornstarch to bind the filling
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial to achieving the best texture and taste.
Tip 2: How To Make Perfect Wrappers
- Mix wheat starch and tapioca starch in a bowl.
- Gradually pour in boiling water while stirring to activate the starches.
- Add a small amount of oil and knead until the dough becomes soft and pliable.
- Divide the dough into small portions and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make it tough and hard to roll out.
Tip 3: How To Get Juicy and Flavourful Filling
- Use fresh prawn, mincing some and keeping a few chunks whole for texture.
- Add bamboo shoots for crunch and flavour.
- Mix the shrimp with sesame oil, ginger, white pepper, salt, and sugar.
- Use cornstarch to bind the filling and keep it moist.
- Refrigerate the filling while preparing the wrappers to enhance the flavour.
Tip 4: Folding and Pleating Har Gow Dumplings
- Roll each portion of dough into a thin circle about 7cm wide.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the centre.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch one side closed.
- Pleat the edges for a secure seal and a professional look.
Pleats are essential as they help the dumpling stay sealed during steaming.
Tip 5: Steaming Har Gow Like a Pro
- Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or lightly oiled cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the dumplings with enough space between them to avoid sticking.
- Steam over boiling water for 6-8 minutes until the wrappers turn translucent and the prawn is fully cooked.
- Serve immediately with soy sauce or chilli oil for dipping.
Tip 6: Serving Suggestions for Har Gow
Har gow is best enjoyed as part of a dim sum spread. Pair it with:
- Chinese broccoli
- Char siu bao (BBQ pork buns)
- Fried rice
- A simple dipping sauce made with soy sauce and rice vinegar
Tip 7: How to Store and Reheat Har Gow
- Refrigerating: Place leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 1-2 days.
- Freezing: Arrange uncooked dumplings on a tray to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed bag.
- Reheating: Steam frozen dumplings for 8-10 minutes without thawing.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wrappers rubbery.
Tip 8: Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
- Using cold water for the dough: Always use boiling water to ensure the dough is elastic.
- Overfilling the dumplings: Too much filling makes sealing difficult and may cause the dumplings to burst.
- Skipping pleats: Pleats help keep the dumplings sealed during cooking.
- Letting dough dry out: Always keep unused dough covered with a damp cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought wrappers for har gow?
Store-bought wrappers aren’t translucent or elastic enough. It’s best to make your own.
What can I use instead of bamboo shoots?
Water chestnuts are a good substitute, adding similar crunch and flavour.
How do I prevent dumplings from sticking to the steamer?
Use parchment paper, cabbage leaves, or lightly oil the surface of the steamer.
Can har gow be made vegetarian?
Yes, replace prawns with finely chopped tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Why are my wrappers breaking?
Wrappers break if the dough is too dry or rolled too thin. Keep the dough covered and don’t over-roll.
Final Thoughts
Making har gow takes practice, but the results are worth it. By following these tips, you can create dumplings that rival your favourite dim sum restaurant.
Enjoy the process and savour the delicious results!
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