Dim sum is a delicious Chinese staple that has become more and more popular because it's both affordable and convenient. Dim sum is traditionally served in a circular pot called a trolley, which usually has at least two rows of various steamed dumplings filled with delicious pork and shrimp mince. This easy entrée dish can be easily cooked at home by using your oven to make the meat wrapped in pastry!
What is dim sum?
Dim sum, also known as dumplings, is a type of Chinese food that consists of small bite-sized parcels usually served family-style. Dim sum is a Cantonese word that means “to touch” or “to stroke”. Dim sum is a dish that originated in China, and consists of small, savory dishes that are served as part of a multicourse meal. Dim sum can be ordered at any time of the day or night, and typically includes items such as pork buns, ebony chicken dumplings, steamed shrimp dumplings, and sweet and sour pork. Some people prefer to order dim sum fairly simply by selecting from a set menu, while others like to explore new and different dim sum experiences each time they visit a restaurant. You can also buy frozen dim sum online and enjoy this delicious Chinese food at your home.
The Best Methods For Eating Dim Sum
If you’re looking for a delightful way to spend an afternoon, head to your nearest dim sum restaurant. Here are some of the more interesting ways to eat dim sum:
The Dumpling Soups:
Many dim sum restaurants offer a variety of dumpling soups. These dishes come in different flavors, often containing pork or chicken broth, shredded ginger, and diced scallions. Some popular soup options include chicken and ginger with Chinese cabbage and woodear mushrooms, or shiitake mushroom with bamboo shoots and water chestnuts. Try these hearty bowls for a filling start to your meal.
The Steamed Buns:
Another popular way to enjoy dim sum is by ordering steamed buns instead of fried dough dishes. These buns are often filled with shrimp or crabmeat, onion, and cilantro. While steamed buns can be ordered plain or topped with various sauces and vegetables, they make a great vehicle for any type of savory filling you might desire. Try dipping them into hot sauce or adding a dollop of mayonnaise for a unique flavor twist.
The Dumplings:
Dim sum is all about the dumplings! There are dozens of different dumplings, from rice and steamed translucent wrappers to wonton and wheat wrappers. The same delicious flavors found in dim sum fillings can also be combined into dumplings that are much smaller—and easier to pack for lunch or dinner—than the deep-fried dishes of dim sum.Another favorite variety is gyoza, which are basically dumplings stuffed with bean curd. For a more avant garde selection when ordering at a restaurant: raw vegetables instead of fish wontons—they’re pretty gross but very filling!While each food has its own place on our list of favorites, there’s no denying that some items reign supreme as the best of both Chinese and American culture.
Different Types of Dim Sum
Some people think of dim sum as simple, albeit delicious, morsels of Cantonese cuisine. But dim sum can be much more than that. Dim sum can be a way to experience different flavors and textures in a communal setting, with other diners sharing your meal with you. Here are some more interesting ways to eat dim sum:
- Dim sumos: These are small plates of food that can be eaten either as a full meal or as a starter. Choose from items like fried shrimp dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and chicken and vegetable soup dumplings.
- Oysters black bean sauce: This dish is especially popular in California, where it's served at many Asian-owned restaurants. It consists of oysters cooked with black beans and a depth of flavor and sweetness that comes from the syrup used in the dish.
- Spicy shrimp dumplings: These delicate dumplings are filled with shrimp and rice and cooked in a spicy chili sauce. They're perfect for those who want something a little bit different from the norm.
- Baozi: These steamed pork buns are a classic dim sum item. They come in all shapes and sizes but are typically filled with meat and flavored rice wine.
- Satay: These strips of marinated and spiced beef or chicken that is grilled over a fire on skewers, then dipped in an appetizing peanut sauce.
Conclusion
If you love dim sum, then you need to check out these more interesting ways to eat it! Not only are they delicious, but they also offer a different experience that may challenge your notions of what dim sum is supposed to be. Whatever your reasons for wanting to try something new with dim sum, this list has got you covered. So go ahead and indulge in some of China's most iconic cuisine—you won't regret it!
