Ordering dim sum for the first time can be exciting but also confusing. At large restaurants like Yank Sing in San Francisco, more than 100 varieties of dim sum are served daily on rolling carts. Whether it's your first time eating dim sum or celebrating the Lunar New Year, here's what you should know about this delicious dish and what you should try.
What is Dim Sum?
Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal consisting of small dishes and usually accompanied by tea. There are many types of dim sum in China, but the Cantonese-style is the most popular around the world. This includes steamed, baked, and fried dishes such as dumplings, rice noodle rolls, and pork buns with a simple blend to preserve the natural flavors of the ingredients.
In Cantonese culture, dim sum is often eaten as a late breakfast or brunch. But due to its popularity, there are restaurants that offer dim sum all day.
The word "dim sum" means "touch the heart," reflecting its goal of bringing joy to every meal. There are many dishes to try, but if it's your first time, be sure to try these:
1. Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
Har gow is a must-try at any dim sum restaurant. These are steamed dumplings with a tasty and tender shrimp filling, wrapped in a thin and translucent skin made of wheat and tapioca flour. Because of its unique texture, it is also called "crystal shrimp dumplings."
2. Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
These are the famous bao buns with sweet-salty Chinese barbecue pork inside. There are two types: baked and steamed. The baked version is golden brown and sweeter, while the steamed version is white and fluffier. They are both very tasty, so make sure to get an extra order if you have a lot at the table.
3. Siomai (Pork at Shrimp Dumplings)
Another popular dim sum dumpling is the shumai. These are open-top steamed dumplings usually made of ground pork and shrimp, and often topped with fish roe. It's tasty, has a perfect balance of firm and chewy texture, and pairs well with soy sauce, chili oil, or Chinese hot mustard for extra flavor.
4. Gai-Lan (Chinese Broccoli)
Even if you love meat, you shouldn't miss gai-lan or Chinese broccoli. It is usually cooked in oyster sauce or garlic sauce. It's the perfect break from heavy dishes, so it's good to tuck into the middle of your meal.
5. Hong Kong Egg Tarts (Daan Tat)
For the perfect ending to your dim sum experience, try the Hong Kong egg tarts. Its soft and creamy custard filling is encased in a flaky and buttery crust. It's similar to Portuguese pastéis de nata and English custard tarts, but with a unique flavor that you're sure to love.
If it's your first time at dim sum, don't be nervous—it's a delicious and fun experience. Start with these dishes and you will surely enjoy!
