Is Shrimp Shumai Low in Calories for a Healthy Diet?

November 14, 2025 •

3 min read

A typical three-piece serving of steamed shrimp shumai contains approximately 90 to 130 calories, depending on the ingredients and preparation. Is shrimp shumai low in calories? While often considered a healthier option compared to fried alternatives, the total calorie count can add up quickly, so understanding the facts is key for those watching their intake.

Quick Summary

Shrimp shumai, particularly when steamed, is generally a moderate-calorie dim sum choice. However, the exact calorie count varies based on factors like preparation method, pork content, and serving size. Portion control is essential for integrating it into a low-calorie diet.

Key Points

Calorie variation: The calorie count for shrimp shumai is moderate, ranging from approximately 30-50 calories per piece, depending on ingredients and preparation.
Pork inclusion: Some shumai contains pork, which increases the fat and overall calories compared to all-shrimp dumplings like har gow.
Preparation matters: Steaming is the lowest-calorie cooking method; fried varieties are much higher in calories.
Portion control: Mindful eating is crucial, as multiple dumplings can quickly add up in calories, impacting weight management goals.
Smart pairings: To make your dim sum meal healthier, pair shumai with low-calorie, high-fiber options like steamed vegetables and plenty of unsweetened tea.
Sauce awareness: Dipping sauces can be high in sodium and hidden calories, so it's best to use them sparingly.
Home cooking control: Making shrimp shumai at home allows for better control over ingredients and the ability to reduce overall calories and sodium.

Shrimp Shumai Calorie Breakdown

Shrimp shumai, also known as shrimp and pork dumplings (siu mai), are a staple in dim sum cuisine. The caloric content is primarily influenced by its main ingredients: the filling and the wrapper.

The Role of Filling and Preparation Method

The filling in traditional shrimp shumai often includes a mix of shrimp, ground pork, and vegetables like mushrooms and water chestnuts. The inclusion of pork, especially fattier cuts, increases the overall calorie count compared to a purely shrimp-based version. Steaming, the most common cooking method, avoids the added oils found in pan-fried or deep-fried dumplings, making it the healthier choice.

Primary ingredients: Shrimp, pork, mushrooms, and water chestnuts.
Cooking method: Steaming is the standard and lowest-calorie preparation.
Pork content: Higher pork-to-shrimp ratios can significantly increase fat and calories.
Added oils: Some restaurant versions may use extra oil for flavor and moisture, boosting calorie density.

Comparing Shrimp Shumai to Other Dim Sum

When navigating a dim sum menu, shrimp shumai stands out as a relatively better option, but it's important to understand where it fits in the grand scheme. Steamed dishes are almost always preferable to fried ones for calorie control.


Dim Sum Item	Typical Preparation	Calorie Range (per piece)	Key Calorie Factors
Shrimp Shumai	Steamed	30-50	Contains both lean shrimp and higher-fat pork.
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumpling)	Steamed	40-50	Pure shrimp filling in a thin wheat starch wrapper, generally lower in fat than shumai.
Deep-Fried Taro Dumpling	Fried	150+	Deep-frying and starchy filling lead to a very high-calorie count.
Steamed BBQ Pork Buns	Steamed	100-200	The sugary sauce and fatty pork filling increase calories and carbohydrates.
Steamed Vegetable Dumplings	Steamed	20-50	Filled with vegetables, making them one of the lowest-calorie and most fiber-rich choices.

Integrating Shrimp Shumai into a Low-Calorie Diet

For those on a diet, portion control is paramount. A standard restaurant serving of three to four pieces might be manageable, but multiple servings can quickly derail your goals. The strategy is to treat shumai as a component of a balanced meal, not the main event.

Tips for mindful consumption:

Pair with greens: Balance your meal by ordering steamed or blanched vegetables, which are high in fiber and low in calories.
Watch the sauce: Dipping sauces, like soy sauce and chili oil, can add significant sodium and calories. Use them sparingly.
Prioritize steamed options: Always choose steamed dim sum over fried varieties to avoid excess fat and calories.
Fill up on tea: Sipping plenty of unsweetened Chinese tea can help you feel full and manage your overall intake.

Making Healthier Shrimp Shumai at Home

Creating your own shrimp shumai at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing for a much lower-calorie version. Here are some simple adjustments:

Maximize shrimp, minimize pork: Increase the ratio of shrimp to pork, or use only shrimp for a leaner filling.
Add extra vegetables: Incorporate more finely chopped vegetables like carrots, water chestnuts, and mushrooms to bulk up the filling with fewer calories.
Choose fresh over frozen: Frozen shrimp shumai often contains higher levels of sodium and preservatives. Preparing from scratch ensures freshness and better control over ingredients.

Conclusion: A Moderate, Not "Low," Calorie Choice

Is shrimp shumai low in calories? While it is not a zero-calorie food, steamed shrimp shumai is a relatively low-calorie option within the world of dim sum, especially when compared to its fried counterparts. Its caloric content is moderate, and it can be a satisfying part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The inclusion of protein from both shrimp and pork provides a filling, satisfying bite. To keep your meal in check, focus on portion size, choose steamed versions, and be mindful of high-sodium dipping sauces. By applying these strategies, you can enjoy shrimp shumai without compromising your nutritional goals.

For more healthy Asian cuisine tips, check out this guide on creating delicious and light meals: Healthy Crystal Shrimp Dumplings Recipe for Weight Loss - Lemon8-app.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count can vary significantly. Factors like the proportion of fatty pork to lean shrimp, the amount of oil used, and the size of the dumpling all affect the final count. Restaurant and frozen versions can differ from homemade ones.

Yes, absolutely. Steamed shrimp shumai avoids the extra fats and calories from deep-frying, making it a much better choice for a weight loss diet compared to items like fried spring rolls or deep-fried taro dumplings.

The calories in a single piece of shrimp shumai can range from about 30 to 50 calories, but this can fluctuate based on the specific recipe and size. A standard serving of 3-4 pieces could be anywhere from 90 to 200 calories.

No, traditional shrimp shumai is not typically suitable for a keto diet due to the carbohydrate-heavy wrapper. The filling, which contains shrimp and sometimes pork, is protein-rich, but the wrapper and other ingredients add carbs.

Shrimp shumai often has a higher calorie count than har gow. Har gow is typically a simple shrimp dumpling with a thin, wheat starch wrapper, while shumai often contains fatty pork in addition to shrimp, increasing its fat and calorie content.

For a healthier meal, enjoy shrimp shumai in moderation as a small part of a larger, balanced meal. Combine it with steamed vegetables and limit your use of salty or oily dipping sauces.

Yes, homemade versions are often healthier. You can use lean ground pork or skip it entirely, add more vegetables to the filling, and control the amount of oil and sodium. This gives you direct control over the nutritional content.