Easy Shrimp Dim Sum with Rice Paper: Healthy Gluten-Free Har Gow at Home

Easy Shrimp Dim Sum with Rice Paper: A Healthier Har Gow

Cooking time : 15 mins Serves : 1

If you love dim sum but want to try a lighter, healthier version at home, this Shrimp Dim Sum using Rice Paper recipe is perfect for you. Inspired by traditional Har gow shrimp dumplings, this recipe uses rice paper instead of wheat wrappers, making the dumplings more delicate and gluten-free. The process is simple, quick, and results in a delicious, chewy texture that shrimp lovers will adore.

Why Use Rice Paper Instead of Dumpling Wrappers?

Traditional Har gow dumplings use wheat-based wrappers that can sometimes feel heavy or doughy. Rice paper offers a lighter alternative with a different texture, slightly chewy yet tender when steamed or microwaved. It is also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Using rice paper also means you can avoid complicated dough-making steps. This makes the recipe accessible for beginners or anyone short on time but craving authentic flavors.

Ingredients for Shrimp Dim Sum with Rice Paper

• 8 large frozen shrimp (thawed)
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, but highly recommended for authentic flavor)
• Rice paper sheets (round, about 8 inches in diameter)
• Water (for wetting rice paper and mixing with sesame oil)

How to Make Shrimp Dim Sum with Rice Paper at Home

1. Chop and Season the Shrimp

First, defrost about 8 large frozen shrimp. Shrimp are the star ingredient here, so fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp work best.

Once defrosted, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces roughly 0.5 to 1 cm in size. Avoid chopping too finely because you want the filling to have some chewiness and texture, mimicking the authentic Har gow experience.

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with 1 chopped green onion, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground pepper. Mix everything well.

Tip: Adding 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the mixture gives the filling a fragrant, nutty aroma that enhances the traditional dim sum taste. This is optional but highly recommended.

2. Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers

Rice paper sheets can be a little tricky to handle because they tend to stick when wet. To avoid this, wet your cutting board lightly with water before handling the rice paper sheets.

Take one rice paper sheet and wet it thoroughly with water. The rice paper will become soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping the shrimp filling.

3. Wrap the Shrimp Filling

Place the softened rice paper on your wet cutting board.

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp filling onto the center of the rice paper. Using your fingers, gently shape the rice paper around the filling to form a dumpling-like shape.

4. Set Up for Cooking

On a large plate, mix 1 tablespoon of sesame oil with 1 tablespoon of water. This mixture prevents the dumplings from sticking to the plate and adds extra flavor.

Place your prepared dim sum on the plate, spacing them out to avoid sticking.

5. Microwave the Dim Sum

Cover the plate with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Or you can cover your plate with anything you want that fits in the microwave.

Microwave the dumplings for about 4-5 minutes. The shrimp will cook quickly, and the rice paper will become tender and slightly translucent.

6. Serve and Dip

Once cooked, carefully remove the plastic wrap (watch out for steam). Your shrimp dim sum using rice paper is ready to serve!

Pair these dumplings with soy sauce, chili oil, or your favorite dipping sauce for an authentic dim sum experience.

Tips for Perfect Rice Paper Dumplings

• Do not overfill the rice paper; too much filling makes wrapping difficult and can cause tearing.
• Wet the rice paper thoroughly to make it flexible but not too soggy to avoid tearing.
• Use warm water for wetting rice paper to help maintain its texture.
• Microwave timing can vary based on your microwave’s power. Start with 4 minutes and adjust as needed.
• For extra chewiness, try steaming instead of microwaving. Steam the dumplings for 5-7 minutes using a bamboo or metal steamer.

Why This Rice Paper Recipe Is Healthier

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and iodine. Using rice paper instead of wheat wrappers makes this dish lower in calories and gluten-free.

This recipe is light, low in fat (especially if you skip the optional sesame oil), and perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Fun Variations to Try Next Time

• Mix in minced garlic or ginger for a more aromatic filling.
• Use different seafood like scallops or a mix of shrimp and pork.
• Experiment with dipping sauces such as sweet chili, soy vinegar, or spicy peanut sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions for Rice Paper Dumpling Recipe

Can I freeze these shrimp dim sum before cooking?

Yes! This is the best meal-prep idea. Prepare the dumplings, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to eat, microwave or steam from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I pan-fry instead of steaming or microwaving?

Because rice paper is thin and delicate, pan-frying might cause the dumplings to stick or tear. However, you can lightly pan-fry on a non-stick pan with some oil to get a crispy bottom, similar to potstickers.

Where to buy rice paper sheets?

I bought rice paper from a local grocery store. Rice paper sheets are usually found in Asian grocery stores or online. Choose round sheets approximately 8 inches for easier handling and traditional size.

Final Thoughts on This Easy Shrimp Dim Sum Recipe

This Shrimp Dim Sum Recipe Using Rice Paper offers a healthy, simple, and delicious way to enjoy classic dim sum flavors at home without the fuss of making dough wrappers. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, anyone can impress friends and family with this authentic tasting shrimp dim sum. Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy a light, gluten-free alternative to traditional dumplings that will surely satisfy your cravings.