The Best Dim Sum Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What to put in dim sum? ›

Common dim sum dishes include a variety of dumplings (steamed, boiled, pan-fried, open-topped shumai, and the coveted xiao long bao), bao buns, char siu (barbecued pork), steamed radish or turnip cakes with pork and dried shrimp, and many items wrapped in rice paper rolls or tofu skins.

Dumplings are balls of flour filled with a stuffing. Momos are also dumplings that contain some form of filling, be it vegetarian or meat. Dim sums are small snacks in Chinese cuisine that are eaten for lunch. They too have fillings covered with dough, but the dough is semi- or completely transparent.

Whether savoury or sweet, dim sum dishes can be prepared in a number of ways (usually steamed, fried or baked). The most popular types of dim sum range from dumplings, buns, wraps and noodle rolls (often filled with a mixture of fresh seafood, meat and vegetables) to puffs, tarts and puddings.

She revealed that dim sums are among the healthiest eating-out options. Explaining the reason, the nutritionist mentioned that these are generally bite-sized, high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and steamed. According to Makhija, steamed foods are the healthiest and most versatile.

It makes a big difference when you steam dim sum for one minute more or one minute less. You should eat them hot. Their flavors will totally change if you warm them by microwave at home.”

Potstickers, dumplings, and wontons are among the most ordered dim sum dishes in Cantonese or Asian restaurants around the world. These three favorite foods are dough-wrapped dishes with a sweet or savory filling. With their many similarities in appearance and filling, the three are often mistaken for the other.

It comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and tastes, commonly served in dim sum restaurants and stalls in Chinatown. What is this? You may think bao buns are the same as dumplings or dim sum, but they are actually a unique and distinct type of dish.

What are dumplings made of? The dumpling dough is made of three main ingredients: flour, water and salt.

First, pick a tea, as it will be a central part of the meal — dim sum did originate in tea houses after all. If you want to follow traditional etiquette, the person closest to the teapot should pour tea for guests first before pouring his or her own cup.

The most popular dim sum menu items include Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), Char Siu Bao (BBQ pork buns), Cheong Fun (rice noodle rolls), Lo Bak Go (turnip cake), Fung Zao (chicken feet), and Dan Tat (egg tart).

Is it easy to make dim sum at home? ›

Because the recipes often require unique skill and technique, dim sum is very much a craft, but one that, with a little time, patience and the right recipes can be learned at home. To start, try one of the most iconic dim sum dishes: har gow.

Making dim sum at home can be a real family activity—even if you're not perfect at pleating dumplings. I have a lot of fun folding dumplings with my kids. You don't have to have the “perfect” wok and bamboo steamer setup either; at home I use a steamer basket set on top of a large skillet.

A white wine with good acidity and a notable freshness will respect the flavours and textures of the dim sum. A wine with a nice minerality is also to be preferred.

Most times, you may not need any sauce. However, if you feel you still need a bit of heat or salt, ensure you start small. Try a little and see how it goes, remember you can't wash off the chili or soy sauce if you put too much. In Asia, spoons are used for more than eating soups and broth.

What meat are dim sims made out of? Dim Sims are a Chinese-inspired meat dumpling-style snack made of pork or other meat, cabbage, and seasonings and wrapped in a dumpling-like wrapper.

The very best dim sum require no sauce besides what is served with each specific item. If no sauce is served, you can eat it as is. Or, if you prefer, you can mix a little soy sauce and mustard together on your plate (for something like shu mai or har gow), or use some combination of chile oil, soy sauce and vinegar.