Although not a traditional New Year food, dumplings of all types are enjoyed more frequently during the New Year season. Har Gau (also spelled Har Gow) are the steamed shrimp dumplings with the translucent wrapper (the secret ingredient that makes the outside wrapping so shiny is wheat starch).

Har Gow Shrimp Dumplings

Har Gow are those tasty shrimp dumplings with the translucent wrappers served at Chinese dim sum. The main trick to making Har Gow is handling the dough, which is very sticky and can break apart easily. Coating the work area and equipment with vegetable oil helps.

This recipe makes 30 - 35 Har Gow dumplings. Ingredients: Dough: 3/4 cup wheat starch 2 tablespoons tapioca starch 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons boiling water 2 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil:

Har Gow Filling 6 ounces raw shrimp, rinsed, tails removed, chopped 3 tablespoons finely chopped bamboo shoots 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped green onion 3/4 teaspoon Chinese rice wine or dry sherry 1/4 teaspoon Asian sesame oil 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Pinch of fresh ground white pepper (about 1/8 teaspoon) 1 egg white, lightly beaten 2 teaspoons cornstarch