Ingredients

1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
1/4 cup white sugar
4 1/2 cups rice flour , divided
1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening , divided
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 large onion , diced
1 clove garlic , chopped , or to taste
1 1/2 pounds shredded cooked chicken meat
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 teaspoons white sugar
1/2 cup diced green onion
1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon cornstarch , if needed ( optional )
Siopao is a traditional Filipino dish that is believed to have originated from China. The dish is a type of steamed dumpling that is typically filled with meat, vegetables, and other flavorings. Siopao can be found in many forms, from small street vendors to upscale restaurants. It is commonly served as an appetizer or snack but can also be eaten as a meal. The dish is popular in the Philippines and is a part of Filipino culture. Siopao is also popular in other parts of the world, including the United States where it is often found in Filipino communities.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and add sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2.In another bowl, combine 4 cups of rice flour and ¼ cup of solid vegetable shortening. Mix them using a spoon.
3.Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more rice flour if necessary.
4.Place the dough into a bowl greased with 1 tsp of vegetable oil. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it sit in a warm place for 1 hour to rise.
5.During this time, prepare the filling. In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion until it becomes translucent. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Add shredded chicken meat and soy sauce. Mix it well and add sugar, salt, pepper, and diced green onions. Cook until the chicken is cooked through. Add cornstarch if the filling is too runny. Allow the filling to cool.
6.When the dough is ready, punch it down and divide it into small balls. Flatten each ball and roll it into a circle. Spoon some of the filling into the center and then seal the dough around the filling to form a ball. Repeat until all the dough is used.
7.Line the steamer baskets with parchment paper and place the dumplings on top. Let them rise for 15 minutes and then steam them for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through.
8.Serve while hot.

PROS

Siopao is a delicious and versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of meats and vegetables.
It is also easy to customize the level of spiciness according to taste.

Steamed dumplings are a healthier alternative to fried dumplings as they are lower in fat.

Siopao is a portable and convenient food that can be eaten on the go.

CONS

The recipe requires some time and effort to prepare the dough, filling, and steaming the dumplings.

The dough can be tricky to work with and may take some practice to get the perfect consistency.

Siopao is a relatively high-carb food, which may not be suitable for those following a low-carb diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Siopao can be a good source of protein, especially if made with lean meats like chicken or pork. The dish is also a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide sustained energy.
Steamed dumplings are lower in fat than fried dumplings, making them a healthier choice.
Finally, siopao can be a good source of vitamins and minerals depending on the filling ingredients used. For example, siopao filled with vegetables like mushrooms and carrots can provide a range of vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and potassium.

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