Homemade Siomai with homemade chili garlic oil

Siomai, a beloved dumpling dish rooted in Asian cuisine, has become a staple in many households and street food stalls worldwide. Its tender, flavorful filling wrapped in delicate wonton wrappers makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Pairing siomai with homemade chili garlic oil takes it to the next level, adding a bold, spicy kick that enhances every bite.

This recipe allows you to create siomai entirely from scratch, giving you complete control over the ingredients and flavors. Whether you prefer classic pork, chicken, shrimp, or a combination, this dish is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. Plus, the addition of your own chili garlic oil ensures a fresh and fragrant condiment that can be used for more than just dumplings.

Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, making siomai at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only is it healthier and more budget-friendly than takeout, but it’s also an excellent way to bring family and friends together. Let this recipe inspire you to roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and enjoy a homemade feast that’s bursting with flavor and made with love!

Ingredients

For the Siomai:

500g ground pork (or chicken/shrimp, as preferred)
1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
1/4 cup minced onions
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup water chestnuts or jicama (optional, finely chopped)
1 large egg
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper
1 pack wonton wrappers

For the Homemade Chili Garlic Oil:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp minced garlic
1/4 cup chili flakes
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp soy sauce
Pinch of salt

Directions

Prepare the Siomai Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, carrots, onions, green onions, water chestnuts (if using), egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Assemble the Siomai:
Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center. Gently gather the edges of the wrapper to form a “cup” around the filling, leaving the top exposed. Repeat until all the filling is used.
Cook the Siomai:
Steam the siomai in a steamer lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Cook for 15–20 minutes or until the filling is fully cooked.
Make the Chili Garlic Oil:
Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until golden brown. Turn off the heat and stir in the chili flakes, sugar, soy sauce, and salt. Let cool before transferring to a jar.
Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the siomai on a serving plate and drizzle with the homemade chili garlic oil. Serve hot with soy sauce, calamansi, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 30–35 siomai
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute pork with ground chicken or shrimp for a lighter alternative.
Add mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Experiment with different dipping sauces like a spicy vinegar dip or sweet chili sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftover siomai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chili garlic oil can be stored in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: Steam the siomai for 5–7 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make siomai gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce.
What can I use instead of wonton wrappers?
Try rice paper or thin slices of cabbage for a low-carb option.
How do I prevent the siomai from sticking to the steamer?
Line the steamer with parchment paper, cabbage leaves, or a light brushing of oil.
Can I bake siomai instead of steaming?
Yes, but steaming keeps the siomai juicy. If baking, brush with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
What oil works best for chili garlic oil?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for flavor.
How long does homemade chili garlic oil last?
It can last up to 2 weeks when stored in a clean, sealed jar at room temperature.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Prep the siomai and chili oil ahead of time. Store siomai in the freezer and chili oil in a jar for later use.

Conclusion

Homemade Siomai with homemade chili garlic oil is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that combines the satisfaction of crafting food from scratch with the joy of indulging in vibrant flavors. The tender, flavorful dumplings paired with the spicy, aromatic kick of chili garlic oil create a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting.

This recipe is not only versatile but also a great way to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for a busy week, or impressing friends at a gathering, siomai is sure to be a hit. Plus, the homemade chili garlic oil adds a personal touch and can be used to elevate other dishes too.

The best part? You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences, from swapping proteins to adjusting spice levels. Once you’ve tried making siomai at home, you may never go back to store-bought again! So, gather your ingredients, fire up the steamer, and enjoy a delicious homemade feast that’s packed with love and flavor.

If you loved making homemade siomai and chili garlic oil, you might enjoy exploring these delicious dishes that pair perfectly with the flavors and themes of your recipe:

Learn how to create flavorful Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce to complement the chili garlic oil’s spice.
Discover the rich, comforting flavors of Salisbury Steak Meatballs with Mushroom Gravy for a hearty pairing.
Make Honey Garlic Butter Steak and Rice Skillet to enjoy another quick and savory dish.
Try the delicious combination of cheesy pasta and chicken with Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake.
Add a fun twist to your snacks with Taco Cupcakes, an easy finger food for gatherings.
Indulge in a flavorful seafood dish like Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle.
For something sweet, finish your meal with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake for a zesty, creamy dessert.

These recipes not only complement the siomai and chili garlic oil but also inspire creativity in the kitchen with similar themes of bold flavors and comfort. Happy cooking!