Har Gow (虾饺) are delicate Cantonese shrimp dumplings, a signature dim sum item loved for their translucent wrappers, plump shrimp filling, and elegant presentation. Originating from Guangdong province, Har Gow showcases the art of dim sum craftsmanship, balancing flavor, texture, and aesthetics.

The dumplings are light, tender, and juicy, with a slightly chewy wrapper that’s perfectly translucent, revealing the vibrant shrimp inside.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3, ~12 dumplings)

For the Filling:

200g fresh shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

50g bamboo shoots, finely chopped

1 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp sesame oil

½ tsp salt

½ tsp white pepper

1 tsp Shaoxing wine


For the Dumpling Wrapper:

100g wheat starch

25g tapioca starch

120ml boiling water

1 tsp vegetable oil

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wrapper Dough

In a bowl, combine wheat starch and tapioca starch.

Pour in boiling water gradually while stirring with a spatula until a dough forms.

Add vegetable oil and knead until smooth. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Chop shrimp into small pieces, but keep some slightly chunky for texture.

Mix shrimp with chopped bamboo shoots, cornstarch, sesame oil, salt, white pepper, and Shaoxing wine.

Stir until well combined and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Dumplings

Divide dough into small pieces (~15g each).

Roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper (~8cm diameter). Keep wrappers as thin and translucent as possible.

Place 1 tsp of filling in the center.

Fold wrapper in half and pleat the edges to seal, forming a half-moon shape.

Step 4: Steam the Dumplings

Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.

Arrange dumplings without touching.

Steam over boiling water for 6–8 minutes until wrappers become translucent and shrimp are fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with soy sauce, chili oil, or black vinegar on the side.

Enjoy the delicate bite of the translucent wrapper with the succulent shrimp filling.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Wrapper Thickness: Thin wrappers are key for traditional Har Gow; too thick, and they become doughy.

Filling: Avoid overfilling to prevent breaking during steaming.

Shrimp: Use fresh, firm shrimp for best texture and flavor.

Steaming: Ensure the steamer is fully boiling before adding dumplings for even cooking.

🍚 Serving & Experience

Har Gow are light, delicate, and bursting with fresh shrimp flavor. The slightly chewy, translucent wrapper complements the juicy, aromatic filling, making them a must-have in any dim sum meal.

Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or authentic Cantonese dining experiences, Har Gow showcases the craftsmanship and elegance of traditional dim sum.