Arteflame Grilled Cantonese Dim Sum Recipe

Introduction:

Cantonese dim sum, traditionally steamed, takes on a deliciously smoky twist when prepared on the Arteflame grill. This recipe features classic dim sum items like dumplings, buns, and skewers, all infused with the unique grilled flavor, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Dumplings:

• 20 round dumpling wrappers
• 1/2 pound ground pork or shrimp (or a combination)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped water chestnuts
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Pork Buns:

• 12 small bao buns (pre-made or homemade)
• 1/2 cup char siu (Chinese BBQ pork), diced
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce

For the Skewers:

• 1/2 pound chicken thighs, diced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili oil (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Lightly grease the flat cooktop with vegetable oil.

Step 2: Make the Dumplings

1. In a bowl, combine ground pork or shrimp, water chestnuts, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.
2. Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold, and press to seal. Pleat the edges if desired.
3. Place the dumplings on the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden. Splash with a small amount of water and cover with a lid or cop to steam for 2-3 minutes. Remove the lid and cook for another minute to crisp the bottoms.

Step 3: Grill the Pork Buns

1. Toss the diced char siu with hoisin sauce and soy sauce.
2. Stuff the bao buns with the char siu mixture.
3. Place the buns on the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Skewers

1. Marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and sesame oil for 15-20 minutes.
2. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill on the medium-high heat zone for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili oil (if using), and sugar.
2. Serve alongside the dim sum.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Dim Sum

1. Heat Zones: Use medium heat for delicate items like dumplings and buns and higher heat for skewers.
2. Small Batches: Grill in small batches to ensure even cooking.
3. Steaming Dumplings: Use a grill-safe lid or cover to steam dumplings for a tender texture.
4. Custom Fillings: Experiment with different fillings like vegetables, tofu, or seafood.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Dim Sum: Use tofu or mushrooms for dumplings and buns.
2. Seafood Skewers: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops.
3. Spicy Dim Sum: Add chili paste to the fillings or sauces for a kick.
4. Sweet Buns: Fill bao buns with sweet red bean paste for a dessert option.
5. Extra Sauces: Include sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for dipping.

Pairings

• Sides: Serve with fried rice, Asian-style slaw, or steamed greens.
• Drinks: Pair with jasmine tea, green tea, or a crisp lager.
• Dessert: End the meal with grilled pineapple or mango slices.

Conclusion

Cantonese dim sum cooked on the Arteflame grill is a delicious fusion of tradition and innovation. The smoky flavors from the grill enhance the tender dumplings, crispy buns, and juicy skewers, making this recipe perfect for any occasion.