I remember the first time I walked into a bustling dim sum restaurant. The smell of steaming buns and sizzling sauces filled the air. One particular dish caught my eye: barbecue chicken dim sum. The crispy, slightly smoky chicken wrapped in a soft, delicate bun was unforgettable. That memory stayed with me until I tried recreating it at home. That’s when I discovered Jamie Oliver’s take on barbecue chicken dim sum. His recipe isn’t just about taste. It’s about joy, experimentation, and the thrill of making restaurant-quality dishes in your own kitchen.
Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s barbecue chicken dim sum is more than a recipe. It’s an adventure for your taste buds. Imagine tender chicken, rich with sweet and smoky flavors, encased in soft, fluffy dim sum dough. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for a weekend cooking project or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. What makes Jamie’s recipe unique is the balance of textures and flavors. He combines traditional Chinese techniques with his signature rustic style. The result is dim sum that feels authentic yet approachable for home cooks.
Ingredients Needed
I always start with fresh ingredients. They make a huge difference in both flavor and texture. Here’s what you need:
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – juicy and flavorful
- Barbecue sauce – smoky and sweet
- Soy sauce – depth of flavor
- Honey – adds a gentle sweetness
- Garlic – aromatic punch
- Ginger – subtle warmth
- Spring onions – freshness and crunch
- Dim sum wrappers or homemade dough – soft and pillowy
- Sesame seeds – optional garnish
- Cooking oil – for searing
Every ingredient has a role. Skipping one can change the dish completely, so treat each one like a building block.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum
I love the process almost as much as eating the dim sum. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Marinate the chicken: Combine barbecue sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Toss chicken pieces and leave for at least 30 minutes. This step locks in flavor.
- Prepare the dough: If using homemade, roll it into small discs. If store-bought, gently separate the wrappers.
- Cook the chicken: Sear in a hot pan with a touch of oil until golden brown. Make sure the inside is fully cooked.
- Assemble the dim sum: Place a spoonful of chicken on each wrapper. Fold and pinch the edges to seal.
- Steam the dim sum: Place in a steamer for 8-10 minutes. Steam just until the dough is soft and slightly translucent.
- Finish with garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped spring onions for color and texture.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Here’s why this recipe works so well:
- Chicken thighs: Higher fat content keeps meat juicy during cooking
- Honey: Caramelizes slightly when seared, enhancing sweetness and color
- Ginger and garlic: Release volatile compounds that awaken the palate
- Dim sum dough: Steaming gelatinizes the starch, creating a soft, tender bun
- Soy sauce: Umami-rich, balances sweetness from the honey and barbecue sauce
Understanding these details helps you tweak flavors without losing the magic.
Expert Tips
I learned these tricks after several tries:
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor, at least 1 hour if you can
- Use medium heat when searing to avoid burning the sugars in barbecue sauce
- Don’t overfill the buns, or they will burst while steaming
- Line your steamer with cabbage leaves or parchment to prevent sticking
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftover buns can be reheated gently in a steamer
Recipe Variations
I love playing around with this recipe. A few ideas:
- Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade
- Vegetarian version: Use marinated tofu instead of chicken
- Fusion flavor: Swap barbecue sauce for hoisin for a richer, sweeter profile
- Mini versions: Perfect for party platters or finger foods
Final Words
Making Jamie Oliver’s barbecue chicken dim sum at home feels like bringing a restaurant into your kitchen. It’s a mix of comfort, creativity, and celebration. Each step, from marinating to steaming, is a moment to enjoy. And the payoff is incredible-a steaming basket of soft, flavorful dim sum that disappears in minutes.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, including prep and cooking time.
Can I Make The Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep the filling and freeze the dim sums. Just steam them when ready to serve.
What Type Of Chicken Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Barbecue Chicken Dim Sum?
Boneless chicken thighs work best for a juicy filling. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer.