Shrimp Shumai – Easy Meal Recipe

Last Updated on May 2, 2025

Before diving into my shrimp shumai recipe, let’s chat a bit about what you can pair it with. When I think of shrimp shumai, my mind automatically entertains a vivid array of companions. 

Picture a sunny dinner table adorned with soy sauce for dipping, a crisp salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette, or a light miso soup. You might also consider serving it alongside sticky rice or sautéed bok choy, which adds a delightful crunch. 

For drinks, a chilled sake or a refreshing iced tea pairs wonderfully. Feeling adventurous? Try a tangy margarita; the citrusy notes cut right through the richness of the shumai.

Ingredients List with Measurements

Here’s what you’ll need to create scrumptious shrimp shumai:

– 24 square wonton wrappers  

– ½ pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cleaned  

– 1 garlic clove, minced  

– ½ inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped  

– ½ inch piece lemongrass, finely chopped  

– 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce  

– ½ teaspoon rice wine vinegar  

– ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil  

– ¼ teaspoon sea salt  

– ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper  

– 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped  

– 1 teaspoon lime zest 

How to Make Shrimp Shumai

Creating these delightful little parcels is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for your very own homemade shrimp shumai!

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

The star of the show is the shrimp. Start by cleaning the shrimp thoroughly. Once that’s done, chop them into small pieces. I often find that coarsely chopping gives the filling a nice texture.

Next, mix the chopped shrimp with the minced garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. These ingredients aren’t just there to elevate the taste; they also add a zing that makes your shumai unforgettable. 

Toss in the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sea salt, white pepper, cilantro, and lime zest. The combination of flavors starts dancing together in a bowl. This filling is where the magic happens!

Step 2: Assemble the Shumai

Get your wonton wrappers ready. I place a wrapper on a clean surface and add about a teaspoon of the shrimp mixture in the middle. Here’s where the fun begins. Fold the wrapper around the filling, pinching the tops to create a little “hat” formation. 

Don’t worry about them being perfect; think of them as charming little pouches. Repeat the process until you’ve used up all your filling.

Step 3: Steam the Shumai

Once your shumai are ready, it’s time for the steaming action. Prepare a steamer basket lined with parchment paper to keep the dumplings from sticking—nobody wants a mishap at the end of this delicious journey. 

Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, making sure they’re not crowded. Cover and steam for about 6-8 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the dumplings turn a beautiful opaque color.

Recipe Notes

• Wonton wrappers: These are slightly thick squares that can be found in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store. They are versatile and can be used for various dumplings, making them an excellent kitchen staple.
  
• Shrimp: Freshness is key here. If possible, buy shrimp that has been previously frozen and thawed rather than pre-cooked shrimp. You’ll get a better texture when steaming.
  
• Ginger: Fresh ginger packs a punch. I suggest peeling and finely chopping it using a grater or sharp knife. It adds a warmth that rounds out the other flavors.
  
• Lemongrass: This fragrant ingredient gives a nice citrusy aroma. If you can’t find fresh lemongrass, you can substitute it with a tiny splash of lemon juice, though it’ll be missing that classic flavor.
  
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way. Use toasted sesame oil for a nutty depth that brings your shumai to the next level.
  
• Cilantro: I love this herb for its vibrant, fresh taste. However, if you aren’t a fan, feel free to leave it out or switch it for green onions.
  

Recipe Variations

The beauty of shrimp shumai is its versatility. Here are some fun variations you might want to explore:

• Vegetable Shumai: Replace shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or even brussels sprouts. Toss in soy sauce and spices for a plant-based twist.
  
• Pork Shumai: Substitute shrimp with ground pork, adding a bit of garlic and green onions for an entirely different flavor.
  
• Spicy Shumai: For those who enjoy a kick, mix in some diced chili or sriracha into the filling.
  
• Herbed Shumai: Experiment with different herbs. Try Thai basil or mint for a fresh pop that elevates the dish

Conclusion

I truly believe that making shrimp shumai at home is not just about the food; it’s a chance to bond, experiment, and enjoy the process of cooking. From the delicate wrappers to the fragrant shrimp filling, every component plays a role in the art of culinary creation. 

As I wrap up this delightful recipe, I hope you feel encouraged to try this dish, with its endless variations and comforting flavors.

Life is rich with experiences, and adding homemade shrimp shumai to your culinary repertoire is a delicious way to enhance your kitchen’s memory. 

Whether you choose to serve it at a gathering or enjoy it on a quiet evening, your taste buds will thank you! So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

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