Har Gow
Translucent shrimp dumplings.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Har Gow originated in the teahouses of Guangzhou, China, sometime in the early 20th century. It was one of the 'Four Heavenly Kings' of Cantonese dim sum, showcasing the skill of the dim sum chef in creating a thin, translucent wrapper that held together while steaming.
Har Gow is a cornerstone of dim sum culture, representing skill, artistry, and the communal enjoyment of shared dishes.
Dim Sum Staple
Har Gow is almost always present on a dim sum menu, considered a classic alongside Siu Mai, Char Siu Bao, and Egg Tarts.
Chef's Skill Indicator
The quality of Har Gow often reflects the overall skill of the dim sum chef, especially the wrapper's thinness and integrity.
Social Gathering
Eating dim sum, including Har Gow, is often a social activity, enjoyed with family and friends in a bustling restaurant environment.
The flavor profile of Har Gow is delicate and savory, highlighting the sweetness of fresh shrimp with subtle seasonings.
The primary flavor comes from the shrimp itself, typically a blend of whole and chopped shrimp to provide both texture and flavor. Complementary flavors include bamboo shoots for a crunchy texture and subtle earthy notes, sesame oil for richness and aroma, and a touch of ginger and white pepper for warmth. The wrapper, while largely flavorless, contributes a slightly chewy texture.
Wrapper Consistency
The wrapper dough, made with wheat starch and tapioca starch, must be smooth and elastic to achieve the desired translucency and avoid tearing during steaming.
Shrimp Preparation
Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and avoid overcooking it in the filling mixture. Marinate the shrimp briefly to enhance its flavor.
Folding Technique
The 'pleated' folding technique not only looks elegant but also helps to seal the dumpling and prevent it from bursting during steaming. Aim for at least seven pleats.
Steaming Time
Avoid over-steaming Har Gow, which can cause the wrapper to become sticky and lose its translucency. A properly steamed Har Gow will be slightly translucent and the shrimp will be cooked through.
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