Dim sum is a beloved culinary tradition that involves a wide array of small, bite-sized portions of food, typically served with Chinese tea. But What Is Dim Sum Food exactly? Originating from Cantonese cuisine in Southern China and Hong Kong, dim sum is more than just a meal; it’s a social dining experience enjoyed during brunch or lunch hours. The name “dim sum” itself translates to “touch the heart,” reflecting the delightful and satisfying nature of these dishes.
Traditionally served in steamer baskets or small plates, dim sum encompasses a diverse range of flavors and cooking methods. You can find steamed buns (bao), dumplings (like har gow and siu mai), rolls, and even desserts. Each dish is crafted to be a small masterpiece, allowing diners to sample a variety of tastes and textures in one sitting.
When experiencing dim sum, tea is an integral part of the ritual. In fact, when you sit down at a dim sum restaurant, one of the first things you’ll be asked is what kind of tea you would like. Common choices include:
- Black tea (紅茶 – Hung Cha / Hóngchá) – Rich and robust, a classic pairing.
- Pu’er tea (普洱茶 – Po Lei Cha / Pǔ’ěr chá) – Earthy and aged, known for its digestive benefits.
- Chrysanthemum tea (菊花茶 – Gok Fa Cha / Júhuā chá) – Floral and refreshing, often with a slightly sweet note.
- Jasmine tea (茉莉花茶 – Mot Lei Fa / Mòlìhuā chá) – Fragrant and delicate, infused with jasmine blossoms.
- Oolong tea (乌龙茶 – Wu Long Cha / Wūlóngchá) – A diverse category ranging from light and floral to dark and roasted.
To fully enjoy the dim sum experience, it’s recommended to order a variety of dishes to share. A good rule of thumb is to order around 1-2 steamer baskets per person, ensuring a minimum of 4 different types for a group of two or more. This allows you to explore the vast and exciting world of what is dim sum food and discover your personal favorites within this Cantonese culinary art form.
