Caribbean-inspired Dim Sum

Ingredients

While traditional Chinese dim sum is known for its delicate flavors and steamed dumplings, our Caribbean adaptation infuses bold and vibrant Caribbean spices into the dim sum. We also incorporate local ingredients and flavors commonly found in Caribbean cuisine, giving this dish a distinct tropical twist. We alse have the original recipe for Dim sum, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) paprika 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup (60g) finely chopped bell peppers (red, green, and yellow) 1/4 cup (60g) finely chopped bell peppers (red, green, and yellow)
• 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped onion 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped pineapple 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped pineapple
• 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped cooked chicken or shrimp (optional) 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, turmeric powder, paprika, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, water, and vegetable oil.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   In a small bowl, mix together the bell peppers, onion, cilantro, pineapple, and cooked chicken or shrimp (if using).
7. 7.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the filling mixture onto each dough circle and fold the edges to seal, creating a dumpling shape.
9. 9.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat.
10. 10.
    Fry the dumplings in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
11. 11.
    Remove the dumplings from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
12. 12.
    Serve the Caribbean-inspired dim sum hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Bell peppers — Choose bell peppers that are firm and brightly colored for the best flavor and texture.
• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple for a burst of tropical sweetness. If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the dumplings extra crispy, you can double-fry them. After the initial frying, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again until golden brown.
• Serve the Caribbean dim sum with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, mango chutney, or a tangy tamarind sauce for a burst of flavor.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding other Caribbean-inspired ingredients like plantains, callaloo, or Caribbean hot peppers for a spicy kick.
• If you prefer a healthier option, you can steam the dumplings instead of frying them. Place them in a steamer basket and steam for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean-inspired dim sum as an appetizer or as part of a larger Caribbean feast. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced scallions for an added pop of color.

Presentation advice

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the dim sum on banana leaves or colorful Caribbean-inspired plates. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of mango puree for an extra touch of Caribbean flair.