Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum is a creative take on traditional dim sum, blending Asian flavors with a smoky barbecue twist. This dish takes the classic dim sum concept-bite-sized dumplings filled with various savory fillings. and packs them with tender, juicy barbecue chicken. It’s a bit of a mashup between two beloved food cultures: Chinese dim sum and the smoky, charred goodness of barbecue.
What makes it special? The filling is marinated chicken that’s cooked with barbecue flavors. think soy sauce, honey and spices. then wrapped in soft, delicate dumpling dough. The dumplings are steamed to perfection which helps lock in all the juicy, flavorful filling. You end up with a deliciously smoky bite but one that’s also tender and light, thanks to the dim sum approach. It’s a fusion dish that feels fresh and fun.
Jamie Oliver Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Recipe
Ingredients Needed
For this dish, you’ll need a variety of ingredients to pull off the barbecue chicken filling and the delicate dim sum wrapper. Here’s a breakdown:
For The Barbecue Chicken Filling
- Chicken Thighs (or breast). Thighs are a bit more tender and juicy but you can go with breast if that’s your preference.
- Soy Sauce – This gives the filling that deep, savory umami flavor.
- Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- Rice Vinegar – For a hint of acidity to cut through the richness.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and spice to the marinade.
- Chili Flakes – Optional but adds a nice kick.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a touch of nuttiness.
- Spring Onions – For freshness and crunch in the filling.
For The Dim Sum Wrappers
- Wonton Wrappers – These are typically found in most grocery stores. They’re thin, light and perfect for wrapping.
- Cornstarch – Used to prevent the dumplings from sticking together as they’re steamed.
Equipment Needed
To make these Barbecue Chicken Dim Sums, you don’t need much fancy equipment. However, there are a few things that will make the process smoother:
- Steamer Basket – A bamboo steamer basket works great for cooking the dumplings. If you don’t have one, you can use a metal steamer or even a large pot with a steaming rack.
- Sharp Knife – For finely chopping the chicken and other ingredients.
- Bowl – To mix the barbecue chicken marinade.
- Spoon or Dumpling Mold. For wrapping the filling into the wrappers.
- Rolling Pin (optional) – If you want to make your own wrappers from scratch, though using pre-made wonton wrappers is much simpler!
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum
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Prepare The Chicken Filling
- Start by chopping the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. The idea is for the filling to be easy to wrap and eat, so smaller chunks work best.
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil and chili flakes (if using).
- Toss the chopped chicken in the marinade and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to really sink into the meat.
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Cook The Chicken
- In a hot pan, cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through. Don’t overcook it-keep it juicy! You want the chicken tender so it doesn’t dry out inside the dumplings.
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Assemble The Dumplings
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the cooked chicken filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Wet the edges of the wrappers with a little water, then fold and pleat the sides to seal the dumpling. You can get creative here, folding it into any shape you like but a simple crescent or pleated pouch shape works best.
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Steam The Dumplings
- Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Steam them for about 6-8 minutes or until the wrappers are soft and translucent.
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Serve
- Once steamed, serve your dumplings hot with a side of soy sauce or a tangy dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped spring onions or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
What I Learnt
Making Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum taught me a lot about balancing flavors and textures. The barbecue chicken filling is rich and savory but steaming the dumplings keeps the outside light and soft, offering a perfect contrast to the flavorful filling. The key here is the marinade. it’s not just about the chicken but how the flavors come together. The smoky, sweet and umami-rich combination makes each bite satisfying.
I also learned that while making dim sum from scratch can seem daunting, using store-bought wrappers makes the process a lot easier and quicker. It’s an excellent way to enjoy homemade dim sum without the hassle of making dough from scratch. The wrapping part can be a bit fiddly but once you get the hang of it, it becomes pretty easy.
Finally, I learned that this dish can be easily adjusted based on what you have in your pantry. You can experiment with different meats, add more vegetables or switch up the spices. It’s a versatile recipe.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum
Jamie Oliver’s barbecue chicken dim sum is already a crowd-pleaser but there are always ways to make it your own.
1. Add a Zesty Twist:
If you love tangy flavors, try adding a squeeze of lime or lemon zest to the filling. It balances the smoky barbecue sauce and gives the dish a refreshing edge.
2. Spice Things Up:
For an extra kick, you could incorporate chili flakes or finely chopped fresh red chili into the chicken mixture. It’ll bring a fiery contrast to the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. Alternatively, a bit of sriracha mixed into the sauce could give it that extra depth of heat.
3. Herbs & Aromatics:
While Jamie’s recipe keeps things simple with basic herbs, you could switch things up with a bit of fresh cilantro or mint inside the dim sum. The fresh herbs will offer a nice contrast to the deep, savory flavors. If you prefer, try adding finely chopped garlic or ginger to the chicken filling to give it that extra aromatic depth.
4. Swap Protein:
If chicken isn’t your thing, feel free to get creative. Pork works beautifully in dim sum and if you’re after a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms, tofu or even finely chopped veggies. Just be mindful of the texture and moisture content when choosing alternatives.
5. Dough Perfection:
If you want a slightly thicker, chewier dough, add a little extra flour or cornstarch to the dough recipe. It’ll give the dim sum an even heartier bite. You could also experiment with using wonton wrappers instead of traditional dim sum wrappers for a thinner, crispier option.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
1. Cooling Down:
Always let your barbecue chicken dim sum cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container which can lead to sogginess.
2. Airtight Containers:
To maintain their texture, store your dim sum in airtight containers. If you don’t have a large enough one, wrap the dim sum tightly in plastic wrap and then place them inside a zip-lock bag or a container. This will help keep them from drying out and preserve their flavor.
3. Freezing for Later:
Dim sum freezes really well. To prevent them from sticking together, lay the dim sum on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container and store in the freezer. They should keep for about 1-2 months. To reheat, steam them from frozen or place them in a steamer for about 10-12 minutes.
4. Refrigeration:
If you’re not planning to freeze the leftovers, they can stay in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just make sure to steam them again when reheating to avoid drying them out.
5. Reheating Tips:
Steaming is the best way to reheat leftover dim sum. If you don’t have a steamer, a makeshift one can be created using a pot with a lid and a metal sieve or colander over simmering water. Alternatively, a microwave can work in a pinch but you might lose some of the texture.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
Dim sum is already a flavor-packed dish on its own but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages.
1. Dipping Sauces:
While Jamie’s barbecue sauce adds great flavor, having a variety of dips next to your dim sum takes the experience up a notch. Soy sauce with a dash of rice vinegar and a few drops of sesame oil is always a crowd favorite. For something spicier, consider a chili oil dip or even a sweet and sour sauce to contrast the smoky chicken.
2. Asian Slaw or Pickles:
A refreshing Asian-style slaw with cabbage, carrots and a tangy dressing made of rice vinegar, sesame oil and a touch of sugar complements the rich flavors of the dim sum perfectly. If you’re not into slaw, simple pickled cucumbers or daikon radish will add a lovely crunch and tang that cuts through the heaviness of the dim sum.
3. Stir-Fried Greens:
For a healthy side, you can stir-fry some greens like bok choy, spinach or Chinese broccoli. A quick stir-fry with a little garlic, ginger and soy sauce adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that works great with the dim sum’s richness.
4. Rice or Noodles:
Dim sum is often served with a side of rice or noodles but if you want something special, why not try a fried rice or a bowl of egg noodles in a light broth? It’ll add some heartiness to the meal, especially if you’re serving it as a main dish.
5. Drinks:
A refreshing drink is essential to balance the savory and smoky flavors. Try pairing the dim sum with a cold glass of iced jasmine tea or a classic Chinese tea like oolong or pu-erh. If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, a cold beer or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would also do the trick.
FAQs
What’s The Secret To Making Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Extra Flavorful?
The key is marinating the chicken in a tangy barbecue sauce with spices. It adds depth and really soaks into the meat.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and dumpling wrappers a day before. Just steam them when you’re ready to serve.
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Best With This Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
A sweet soy sauce or a tangy vinegar-based dip works wonders. It complements the smoky flavors of the chicken.
