Dim Sum 101: What to Order and How to Eat It
Dim sum—a tradition that has become a beloved part of Chinese culture. Whether you’re new to dim sum or an experienced foodie, it’s always a good idea to brush up on the essentials before heading out for a dim sum feast. With so many delicious options, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide what to order. Let’s break it down and give you the inside scoop on the must-try dim sum dishes, plus a few tips on how to properly enjoy them!
What is Dim Sum?
Dim sum refers to a variety of bite-sized dishes served in small steamer baskets or on small plates. Traditionally, it’s a Cantonese meal that’s enjoyed with tea, often shared with family or friends. The word “dim sum” literally translates to “touch the heart,” which makes sense because it’s all about satisfying your cravings with delicious morsels. Whether you like dumplings, buns, or even savory rolls, dim sum offers a wide variety to suit every taste.
Top Dim Sum Dishes You Need to Try
Now that you’ve got a brief overview of what dim sum is, let’s get into the fun part: what to order! Here are some of the best and most popular dim sum dishes to look out for:
1. Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)
These delicate dumplings are filled with plump shrimp and wrapped in a thin, translucent skin. They’re a classic dim sum dish that’s simple yet satisfying. The key to a good har gow is the perfect balance between a tender dumpling skin and the juicy shrimp filling.
2. Pork Dumplings (Siu Mai)
These open-topped dumplings are made with a delicious pork and shrimp filling, then topped with a sprinkle of fish roe for that extra pop of flavor. Siu mai is a must-order at any dim sum meal because of its savory taste and satisfying texture.
3. BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
Soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory BBQ pork. The contrast of the pillowy bun and flavorful filling is what makes this dish a fan favorite. Char siu bao is one of the most iconic dim sum dishes, and it’s hard to resist that sweet and sticky pork goodness.
4. Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf (Lo Mai Gai)
This dish is a bit of a surprise—it’s a fragrant sticky rice bundle wrapped in a lotus leaf. Inside the rice, you’ll find a mix of tender chicken, mushrooms, and savory seasonings. Lo mai gai is a hearty and satisfying option, perfect for those who want something a little more substantial.
5. Egg Tarts (Dan Tat)
For dessert, dim sum wouldn’t be complete without egg tarts. These small, golden tarts have a flaky crust and a smooth, custard filling that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect sweet treat to end your meal on a high note.
6. Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)
Crispy, golden spring rolls filled with a variety of ingredients like shrimp, pork, or vegetables. They’re the perfect crunchy bite to add some texture to your dim sum spread. Dipped in sweet chili sauce, they’re a crispy, savory delight.
7. Beef Meatballs (Ngau Yook)
Beef meatballs served in a savory broth, typically flavored with soy sauce and garlic. The tender beef and savory broth make this a great choice for those who prefer something rich and hearty.
How to Enjoy Dim Sum Like a Pro
Dim sum is all about sharing and savoring the flavors with others. Here are a few tips on how to enjoy dim sum the right way:
1. Share Everything!
Dim sum is meant to be shared, so don’t be shy about passing the baskets around. It’s all about trying a bit of everything, so take a bite, share, and enjoy. Plus, sharing is part of the fun!
2. Dip in Soy Sauce or Chili Sauce
Dim sum is often served with a variety of dipping sauces. Soy sauce is a classic, but don’t forget to try chili sauce for a little extra heat. Some dim sum dishes, like spring rolls, also pair perfectly with sweet and sour sauce.
3. Drink Tea
Traditionally, dim sum is enjoyed with tea, which helps cleanse the palate between bites. Popular choices include jasmine tea, oolong tea, and pu-erh tea. The tea pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of dim sum and enhances the overall experience.
4. Pace Yourself
Dim sum can be a bit of a marathon, so it’s important to pace yourself. Start with lighter items like dumplings, then move on to heartier dishes like sticky rice and buns. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert!
Where to Enjoy Dim Sum in Vancouver
If you’re in Vancouver and craving dim sum, there are plenty of great spots to check out:
1. Kam Wai Dim Sum
A Chinatown gem known for its classic dim sum dishes and affordable prices. They’re famous for their har gow and siu mai!
2. Dynasty Seafood Restaurant
A well-loved spot for more upscale dim sum. Their variety of dim sum offerings, including their signature egg tarts, is sure to impress.
3. Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant
A top choice for those who want to enjoy high-quality seafood dim sum. Their shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns are a must-try!
4. Floata Seafood Restaurant
One of the largest dim sum restaurants in Vancouver, offering a huge variety of dim sum dishes in a bustling, lively setting. Don’t miss their famous sticky rice in lotus leaf.
Dim sum is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that brings people together. With a wide variety of dishes to try, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and fun meal, grab a group of friends and head out for a dim sum feast!
