Envision this: a plate of golden, crispy fried siomai, sizzling hot and wafting a savory aroma that makes your mouth water.
There’s something about this Chinese appetizer that feels both indulgent and comforting, yet surprisingly easy to make.
Watch as ground pork and shrimp transform into a delightful bite-sized treat, hugged by wonton wrappers and fried to perfection.
Let’s bring this delicious dish to life and enjoy every crunchy bite!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Steamer or steaming basket
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Plate lined with paper towels
Ingredients
- 250 grams ground pork
- 100 grams shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1 piece egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 20 pieces wonton wrappers
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cook & Prep Time
To manage your time efficiently while preparing and cooking Fried Siomai, follow this timeline:
- Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
- Read through the entire Fried Siomai recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
- Gather all necessary equipment and ingredients.
- Preparation (20 minutes)
- 0:00 – 5:00 minutes: Start by peeling and chopping the shrimp, and mincing the garlic.
- 5:00 – 10:00 minutes: In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- 10:00 – 20:00 minutes: Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface, add a spoonful of filling in the center, and form it into a cup shape. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Cooking (10 minutes)
- 20:00 – 27:00 minutes: Steam the siomai in a steamer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- 27:00 – 30:00 minutes: While the siomai is steaming, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry minced garlic until golden brown.
- 30:00 – 35:00 minutes: Carefully add the steamed siomai to the skillet and fry until the bottoms are crispy and golden.
- Resting (5 minutes)
- 35:00 – 40:00 minutes: Use tongs to transfer the fried siomai to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the siomai rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and add a spoonful of filling in the center.
Gather the edges of the wrapper to form a cup shape and press gently to seal the filling.
Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Steam the siomai in a steamer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and fry until golden brown.
Carefully add the steamed siomai to the skillet and fry until the bottoms are crispy and golden.
Use tongs to transfer the fried siomai to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Let the siomai rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for a sweet and spicy kick that complements the savory siomai.
- Soy Sauce with Calamansi: Offer a small dish of soy sauce mixed with calamansi or lemon juice for a tangy dipping option.
- Steamed Rice: Pair with steamed rice for a more filling meal that makes the siomai the star of the dish.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition by serving alongside a medley of stir-fried vegetables.
- Chili Garlic Oil: Enhance the flavors with a dash of chili garlic oil for those who enjoy an extra spicy punch.
Storage
To store fried siomai, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat using a steamer or skillet to maintain their crispy texture before serving.
Freezing
To freeze fried siomai, let them cool completely.
Then place in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating
To reheat fried siomai, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
This will help maintain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving. It may make them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Fried siomai is a delicious and versatile appetizer that combines the flavors of pork and shrimp.
The crispy exterior and savory filling make it a favorite in Chinese cuisine.
With this recipe, you can easily prepare fried siomai at home. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is straightforward.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a snack, fried siomai is sure to impress.
Consider experimenting with additional ingredients like onions for extra flavor.
Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and enjoy this delightful dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Siomai Without Shrimp?
Absolutely, you can make siomai without shrimp. Simply increase the ground pork portion or substitute with another protein like chicken. Enjoy a savory, aromatic bite with a hint of soy and sesame dancing on your palate.
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Well With Fried Siomai?
You’ll love pairing fried siomai with a zesty soy sauce and vinegar blend. Add minced garlic, a dash of chili oil, and a sprinkle of sugar for balance. The savory, tangy flavors will elevate your appetizer experience.
How Can I Tell if the Siomai Filling Is Cooked Through?
You’ll know the filling’s cooked when it’s firm and no longer pink in the center. A fragrant aroma will waft up, and juices will run clear when you pierce it with a fork or skewer.
Can I Use an Air Fryer Instead of a Skillet?
Yes, you can use an air fryer! Expect a crispier texture and less oil. Preheat the air fryer, arrange the siomai in a single layer, and cook until golden brown. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma and delightful crunch!
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives for Siomai Filling?
You can substitute the filling with finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, tofu, and cabbage. These ingredients soak up flavors beautifully, providing a satisfying texture. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious, savory vegetarian treat.
Fried Siomai
Equipment
- 1 Steamer or steaming basket
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Plate lined with paper towels
Ingredients
- 250 grams ground pork
- 100 grams shrimp peeled and chopped
- 1 piece egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 20 pieces wonton wrappers
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1 clove garlic minced
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and add a spoonful of filling in the center.
- Gather the edges of the wrapper to form a cup shape and press gently to seal the filling.
- Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Steam the siomai in a steamer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and fry until golden brown.
- Carefully add the steamed siomai to the skillet and fry until the bottoms are crispy and golden.
- Use tongs to transfer the fried siomai to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let the siomai rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
