Har Gow
Global • All Foods
About Har Gow
Steamed shrimp dumpling with translucent wrapper
How to Make Har Gow (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Har Gow, also known as crystal shrimp dumplings, is a beloved dim sum dish often enjoyed at Singapore’s bustling kopitiams and hawker centers. Rooted in the vibrant Chinese communities of Singapore, Har Gow has been embraced by locals as a breakfast staple, offering a delicate yet satisfying start to the day. These translucent dumplings feature succulent prawns wrapped in a thin, slightly chewy skin, capturing the essence of comfort and tradition. In Singapore, Har Gow has evolved beyond its Cantonese origins, blending local flavors and healthier cooking methods. Today, health-conscious Singaporeans enjoy Har Gow as a light yet nutritious option, often paired with a pot of Chinese tea during leisurely kopitiam breakfasts. The taste is a perfect fusion: sweet, briny prawns punctuated by hints of sesame and white pepper, all enveloped in a silky, gluten-free wrapper. Whether you’re new to dim sum or a seasoned fan, homemade Har Gow offers a wholesome, lower-calorie alternative to fried breakfast fare, reflecting Singapore’s love for both tradition and innovation.
Ingredients(for 4 dumplings per person (typical kopitiam serving))
- 200g Fresh prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 30g Bamboo shoots (finely chopped, called 'zhu sun')
- 60g Wheat starch (for translucent skin)
- 40g Tapioca starch (for elasticity)
- 100ml Boiling water (for dough)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp White pepper powder
- 1 tsp Low sodium light soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 stalk Spring onion (finely chopped) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling by finely chopping prawns and bamboo shoots. Mix together in a bowl with sesame oil, soy sauce, white pepper, salt, and spring onion.
5 minutes
Keep the filling cold for best texture.
- 2
To make the har gow skin, mix wheat starch and tapioca starch in a bowl. Pour in boiling water gradually, stirring continuously until a sticky dough forms.
5 minutes
Use freshly boiled water for a smooth, pliable dough.
- 3
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Divide into 10-12 equal balls. Cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
5 minutes
Don’t over-knead; stop once the dough is smooth.
- 4
Roll each dough ball into a thin circle (about 7cm diameter) on a lightly floured surface.
5 minutes
Use a small rolling pin or the base of a cup for even thickness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Har Gow recipe is an excellent choice for calorie-conscious diners thanks to its high protein, low fat, and low calorie content. By using fresh prawns and steaming instead of deep-frying, you preserve nutrients and avoid unnecessary saturated fat. The inclusion of bamboo shoots adds fiber and micronutrients, supporting digestive health. This dish is ideal for those seeking a light yet satisfying breakfast or snack, supporting weight management and balanced nutrition.
Har Gow is a nutrient-dense dish, providing a good balance of lean protein from prawns, dietary fiber from bamboo shoots, and minimal fat due to steaming instead of frying. Prawns are rich in vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health. The use of wheat and tapioca starches keeps the dish gluten-free and easily digestible, while the absence of deep-frying ensures a lower calorie count per serving. Low sodium soy sauce helps manage salt intake, making this dish suitable for those monitoring blood pressure.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always keep the dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
- 💡Tip 2: Use high-quality, fresh prawns for the sweetest flavor and best texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Steam in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking and translucency.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Har Gow in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-steam for 3-4 minutes before serving for best texture. Do not freeze, as the wrapper may become brittle.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 40.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
