Homemade siu mai are delicious little steamed dumplings with an open top and a flavorful filling. Their rounded shape makes them attractive on a serving plate, while the combination of shrimp, mushrooms, and seasonings creates a satisfying savory taste. Although shaping each dumpling takes a little patience, the process becomes easier once you have made the first few.

This version uses shrimp and shiitake mushrooms for the filling, wrapped in thin round dumpling sheets and steamed until tender. A small amount of carrot on top adds color, and a simple dipping sauce brings a fresh, tangy finish. They make a lovely appetizer, snack, or addition to a homemade meal.

Ingredients for Shrimp Siu Mai

For the dumplings

250g dried shiitake mushrooms

500g shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon white pepper

¼ cup finely chopped green onions

20–30 round dumpling wrappers, approximately 3¼ inches wide

2 tablespoons finely diced carrot

For the dipping sauce

Soy sauce

Lemon juice or vinegar

Roasted garlic, finely chopped

Chili paste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the dried shiitake mushrooms in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Leave for approximately 10 minutes until softened, then drain and chop finely.

2. Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary, then chop it into small pieces.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, cornstarch, sesame oil, oyster sauce, salt, and white pepper. Mix firmly until the ingredients form a cohesive filling.

4. Add the chopped mushrooms and green onions. Stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

5. Hold one dumpling wrapper over the circle formed by your thumb and index finger. Place approximately 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center and gently press it down into the opening.

6. Add a little more filling as needed until the wrapper is filled to the top. Smooth the surface, then use your fingers to shape the sides and flatten the base so the dumpling can stand upright.

7. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Arrange the shaped dumplings on a clean tray while keeping them upright.

8. Line a bamboo or regular steamer with parchment paper that has small holes for steam to pass through. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer, leaving a little space between them. Place a small amount of diced carrot on top of each one.

9. Add water to the steamer's lower section, making sure it does not touch the dumplings. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then position the steamer above it and cover with a lid.

10. Steam for approximately 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp filling is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the dumplings carefully and serve warm.

Making a Simple Dipping Sauce

A fresh dipping sauce complements the savory filling without requiring much preparation. Combine soy sauce with a little lemon juice or vinegar, then add finely chopped roasted garlic and chili paste according to your preferred taste. Mix everything in a small serving dish and adjust the acidity or heat as desired.

Serve the sauce alongside the freshly steamed dumplings so everyone can add as much as they like. The bright flavor pairs well with the tender wrappers and mushroom filling.

Storage and Preparation Tips

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to shape the dumplings. For longer storage, arrange uncooked siu mai in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a tightly sealed freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for approximately one to two months.

When steaming frozen dumplings, allow additional cooking time and check that the filling is fully cooked before serving. For the best result, line the steamer with perforated parchment to reduce sticking while allowing steam to circulate.

Homemade shrimp siu mai are a satisfying dish that combines a simple filling with an attractive open-top shape. The mushrooms add depth, the shrimp provides a tender texture, and the dipping sauce brings everything together. With a little practice, shaping the dumplings becomes straightforward, making this recipe a useful addition to your collection of homemade steamed snacks.