I still remember the first time I tried dim sum. It was a rainy Saturday in London and I wandered into a tiny, bustling restaurant tucked between streets I’d never noticed before. The smell of steamed buns and sweet barbecue sauce hit me immediately. I remember thinking, “I could eat this forever”. Since then, I’ve tried every version I could find. When I discovered Jamie Oliver’s take on barbecue chicken dim sum, I knew it had to be part of my cooking arsenal. His recipe isn’t just food; it’s an experience.
- Dim sum is comfort food wrapped in elegance
- Jamie Oliver’s version balances traditional flavors with easy home cooking
- Perfect for weekends, parties, or whenever you crave something special
Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Recipe
I love recipes that are approachable but still feel impressive. Jamie’s barbecue chicken dim sum does exactly that. It combines tender chicken, sweet barbecue flavor, and delicate dumpling wrappers.
- The filling is juicy and flavorful
- The wrappers are soft and slightly chewy
- Each bite feels like a mini celebration in your mouth
It’s one of those recipes that makes you proud when you serve it, and even prouder when everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients Needed
The first time I went shopping for this, I realized how simple the ingredients are. Nothing exotic, just quality components that work together magically.
- Chicken breast or thigh, finely chopped
- Dim sum wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
- Barbecue sauce (Jamie suggests a slightly sweet one)
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Ginger, finely grated
- Garlic, minced
- Spring onions, finely sliced
- Cornstarch (helps bind the filling)
- Salt and pepper
Pro tip: fresh ginger and garlic elevate the flavor beyond anything bottled. I always buy more than I think I need.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum
I remember feeling nervous the first time I tried folding the wrappers. I was convinced I would ruin them, but Jamie’s instructions are forgiving.
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Prepare The Filling
- Mix chicken, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, spring onions, and cornstarch in a bowl
- Season lightly with salt and pepper
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to marinate
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Assemble The Dim Sum
- Place a wrapper in your palm
- Spoon a small amount of filling into the center
- Fold edges together to form a neat parcel
- Seal by pressing lightly with your fingers
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Cook The Dim Sum
- Steam over simmering water for 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through
- Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce or soy sauce
I always steam mine in batches. There’s something soothing about watching them puff up while the kitchen fills with that smoky-sweet aroma.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One thing that blew my mind is how cornstarch changes the texture of the filling.
- Cornstarch absorbs moisture from the chicken
- Helps the filling stay juicy without being wet
- Works with the barbecue sauce to create a silky, sticky coating
Ginger isn’t just for flavor. It also tenderizes the chicken slightly and adds a natural zing. Garlic reacts with heat to create aromatic compounds that make the whole dish irresistible.
Understanding these little science tricks makes cooking feel less like guessing and more like creating magic.
Expert Tips
I’ve learned a few things after making this dish dozens of times:
- Don’t overfill the wrappers; less is more
- Keep the edges damp with a little water to seal properly
- Steam over medium heat, not high, to prevent wrappers from splitting
- Use a bamboo steamer for an authentic touch
- Prep extra filling-it keeps well for quick midweek meals
These small tricks make the difference between ’good enough’ and ’wow, restaurant quality.’
Recipe Variations
I love playing around with this recipe. Jamie’s base is flexible, so you can try:
- Spicy kick: add chili flakes or Sriracha to the filling
- Vegetarian: swap chicken for finely chopped mushrooms or tofu
- Fusion flavor: add hoisin sauce or a touch of honey for sweetness
- Cheesy twist: sprinkle a little mozzarella inside for melty goodness
Every variation gives you a slightly new experience, but the core deliciousness remains.
Final Words
The first time I served Jamie Oliver’s barbecue chicken dim sum at a dinner party, my friends couldn’t stop talking about it. Watching someone else take that first bite and smile was deeply satisfying.
- It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to bring people together
- Easy enough for weeknights, special enough for celebrations
- Encourages experimenting and personal touches
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
The key ingredients are chicken thighs, garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and various herbs and spices like coriander and ginger.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and even shape the dim sum in advance. Just store them in the fridge and steam or cook them when ready.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
Serve them hot with a side of soy sauce or a sweet chili dip. They’re great as a snack or part of a bigger meal.