Chinese Dim Sum

 

Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal consisting of a variety of small, bite-sized dishes. It originated in southern China's Guangdong region and has become a popular culinary tradition around the world. Here are some details about dim sum: 

Definition and Origin

Dim sum is a collective term for a broad assortment of hors d'oeuvres, snack-like foods, or small plates of dumplings and other dishes. It is believed to have Cantonese origins and is traditionally served for breakfast and lunch in Cantonese cuisine. Dim sum has its roots in Guangdong, China, and eventually made its way to Hong Kong. It is now a staple in Chinese restaurants globally.  

Dining Experience

When enjoying dim sum, diners typically gather at a restaurant during brunch hours. In traditional dim sum establishments, small plates of food are served from rolling trolleys that pass by diners in a constant procession. Diners can flag down the cart with the desired food or mark their selections on a menu card and wave it in the air to notify the server. This interactive dining experience allows diners to choose from a wide range of dim sum dishes.

Assortment of Dishes

Dim sum offers an assortment of seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes prepared in various ways. Some popular dim sum dishes include:

Shumai (siu mai): Steamed dumplings typically filled with a mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and mushrooms.

Shumai (siu mai)

Shrimp dumpling (har gow): Translucent, steamed dumplings filled with shrimp.

Shrimp dumpling (har gow)

Soup dumplings (xiaolong bao): Delicate dumplings filled with meat and a flavorful broth that bursts upon biting.

Soup dumplings (xiaolong bao)

BBQ pork buns (charsiu bao): Soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with savory barbecued pork.

BBQ pork buns (charsiu bao)

These are just a few examples of the many dim sum dishes available. Dim sum allows diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures in one meal.

Dim sum is a delightful culinary experience that offers a wide range of flavors and textures in bite-sized portions. It is not only a meal but also a social gathering where friends and family can enjoy a leisurely brunch while sampling a diverse selection of delicious dishes.

Dim Sum Paradise in Hongkong

Enjoy dim sum with chopsticks