When it comes to Asian-inspired comfort food, few dishes are as beloved and versatile as Xiu Mai. Also known as “steamed egg” or “thousand-year-old egg,” this creamy, savory delight can be flavored with a wide range of ingredients to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic Cantonese-style dish, a spicy kick from Southeast Asia, or a meat-free option for a dinner party, Xiu Mai has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Xiu Mai recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From seafood-inspired options like Classic Pork Xiu Mai with Shrimp and Thai-Inspired Xiu Mai with Lemongrass, to meat-lovers’ delights like Beef and Lamb Xiu Mai with Cumin and Spicy Pork and Crab Xiu Mai, there’s something for everyone. So let’s crack open the eggs (or not!) and dive into these mouthwatering recipes.
Classic Pork Xiu Mai with Shrimp
This Cantonese-inspired dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, and when combined with succulent shrimp, it becomes an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork xiu mai (Chinese-style steamed pork patty)
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the pork xiu mai into small pieces.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), stirring to combine.
6. Add the pork xiu mai pieces and stir-fry until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Chicken Xiu Mai with Mushrooms
This classic Chinese recipe combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and delicate seasonings to create a flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and minimal cooking time, Steamed Chicken Xiu Mai with Mushrooms is an ideal choice for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, combine the mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
3. Place the chicken on top of the mushroom mixture.
4. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vietnamese-Style Xiu Mai with Fish Sauce
Xiu mai, also known as Vietnamese-style meatballs, is a popular street food in Vietnam. This recipe adds a depth of flavor by using fish sauce, which is commonly used in many Vietnamese dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. When the oil is hot, use a spoon to drop small portions of the meat mixture into the pan.
4. Fry for 5-7 minutes or until the xiu mai are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Pork and Crab Xiu Mai
A flavorful twist on traditional Chinese steamed buns, this recipe combines the richness of pork with the sweetness of crab and a kick of heat from Szechuan peppercorns.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– Salt, to taste
– Water, for mixing dough
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and Szechuan peppercorns. Mix until just combined.
2. Add crab meat and mix until evenly distributed.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour and yeast.
4. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 pieces and shape into balls.
7. Flatten each ball into a disk, then place a tablespoon of filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or circle.
8. Steam the xiu mai for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Gluten-Free Xiu Mai with Tofu
This recipe is a creative spin on the traditional Cantonese dish, Xiu Mai. By using gluten-free ingredients and adding extra texture with firm tofu, this vegetarian version is perfect for those looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked glutinous rice (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the tofu is golden brown.
3. Add the cooked rice, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Baked Xiu Mai with Cheese Topping
This recipe takes the traditional Cantonese dish xiu mai, also known as egg tartlets, to new heights by adding a creamy cheese topping. The result is a rich and savory dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen xiu mai wrappers (about 12-15 pieces)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, egg yolks, and salt.
3. Wrap each xiu mai wrapper with about 1 tablespoon of the egg mixture.
4. Place the wrapped wrappers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the xiu mai is baking, mix the grated cheese and melted butter in a small bowl.
7. Remove the xiu mai from the oven and top each piece with the cheese mixture.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Xiu Mai with Lemongrass
This Thai-inspired take on xiu mai, a Chinese steamed dumpling dish, adds a bright and citrusy flavor profile from the addition of lemongrass. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped lemongrass
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together lemongrass, scallions, chicken breast, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface and place 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Pan-fry the xiu mai in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including prep time).
Beef and Lamb Xiu Mai with Cumin
A flavorful twist on traditional Chinese-style meatballs, this recipe combines beef and lamb with the warmth of cumin for a hearty and aromatic snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, lamb, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until the mixture is sticky but not too wet.
4. Divide into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each meatball.
6. Spray or brush with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Xiu Mai with Carrots and Peas
This Chinese-inspired dish is a delightful twist on traditional xiu mai, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables. With its vibrant colors and savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice noodles
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp and Pork Xiu Mai in Tomato Sauce
A flavorful fusion of Chinese and Western cuisine, this recipe combines succulent shrimp and pork with a rich tomato sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, pork, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
2. Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp-pork mixture and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the mixture from the wok and set aside.
5. In the same wok, add the tomato sauce and water. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked shrimp-pork mixture back into the wok and stir to combine with the tomato sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cantonese-Style Xiu Mai with Water Chestnuts
This Cantonese-style xiu mai, or steamed pork and water chestnut dumplings, is a classic Chinese dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these tender and flavorful dumplings at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup grated water chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for steaming
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, garlic, scallions, water chestnuts, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Xiu Mai with Crispy Wonton Wrapper
A classic Chinese dessert, Fried Xiu Mai is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet and crispy treats. This recipe combines the traditional filling of xiu mai (a type of Chinese rice cake) with a crispy wonton wrapper for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup xiu mai filling (available at most Asian grocery stores)
– 1 package wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Meanwhile, place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of xiu mai filling in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Fry the wrapped xiu mai for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and dust with confectioner’s sugar.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 5-7 minutes per batch
Steamed Xiu Mai with Quail Eggs
Xiu mai, a traditional Cantonese-style steamed egg custard, is elevated to new heights with the addition of quail eggs. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 6-8 quail eggs, hard-boiled and halved
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the large eggs into a bowl and whisk together with milk, salt, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Pour the egg mixture into a heatproof cup or mold.
3. Place the quail eggs on top of the egg mixture.
4. Steam the xiu mai over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork and Shrimp Xiu Mai with Bamboo Shoots
This Cantonese-inspired dish is a flavorful fusion of tender pork, succulent shrimp, and crunchy bamboo shoots. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
– 1 cup bamboo shoots (canned or fresh), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine pork, shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the bamboo shoots and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water.
4. Add the pork-shrimp mixture to the pan with the bamboo shoots. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir-fry until the mixture thickens, about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Xiu Mai Soup with Noodles
This traditional Chinese soup recipe combines the comforting flavors of braised pork, vegetables, and noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, bok choy, bean sprouts)
– 8 ounces noodles (e.g., rice noodles or egg noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Cook noodles according to package instructions and drain.
4. Ladle hot soup over cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mini Xiu Mai Bites for Appetizers
These bite-sized morsels are a creative spin on traditional xiu mai, perfect for appetizers or snacks. With a delicate wrapping and savory filling, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing edges together to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Place mini xiu mai bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little sesame oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Xiu Mai Stuffed Bell Peppers
A classic Chinese dish, Xiu Mai Stuffed Bell Peppers is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the savory goodness of xiu mai (ground pork and vegetable mixture) with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the xiu mai mixture, filling to the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Xiu Mai Fried Rice with Mixed Vegetables
A classic Chinese dish that combines the flavors of xiu mai (preserved egg) and mixed vegetables in a savory fried rice. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup diced preserved egg (xiu mai)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice, stirring constantly.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the rice is well combined with the vegetables.
5. Add the diced preserved egg and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Xiu Mai, a popular Chinese dish, with our collection of 18 delicious recipes. From classic pork and shrimp to innovative vegetarian options, these mouthwatering dishes cater to every taste and occasion. Try steaming chicken with mushrooms, baking with cheese topping, or adding a spicy kick with fish sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something gluten-free, Thai-inspired, or stuffed bell peppers, there’s a Xiu Mai recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.