Ni hao, foodies! Your girl here, ready to dive headfirst into another culinary adventure in the Middle Kingdom.
This time, we’re talking about something seriously special: dim sum!
Maybe you’re planning your next china itinerary or even a china travel itinerary 2 weeks long. Make sure dim sum is on that list!
What Exactly Is Dim Sum? A Crash Course for Beginners
Understanding Dim Sum
Before we jump into the where and how, let’s talk about the what.
Dim sum, literally translating to “touch the heart,” is a Cantonese cuisine tradition involving small, bite-sized portions served with chinese tea in chinese.
It’s a social experience, meant to be shared with family and friends, often enjoyed during brunch or lunch. Think of it as Chinese tapas, but with a whole lot more steam! You can enjoy the chinese tea green or perhaps a famous chinese tea.
The Origin of Dim Sum
Historically, dim sum evolved from tea houses along the Silk Road, offering weary travelers small snacks to enjoy with their tea.
These snacks gradually developed into the diverse and delectable range of dishes we know and love today.
Finding Dim Sum Nirvana: Which City Reigns Supreme?
The Birthplace of Dim Sum: Guangzhou
This is a question I get asked all the time: What city in China has the best dim sum?
And honestly, it’s a loaded question! While delicious dim sum can be found throughout china beijing shanghai, generally speaking, Guangzhou (Canton), the capital of Guangdong province, is widely considered the birthplace and ultimate mecca for dim sum.
The sheer variety, the quality of ingredients, and the deeply ingrained culture surrounding dim sum in Guangzhou make it a top contender.
Hong Kong’s Innovative Dim Sum Scene
However, Hong Kong, with its close ties to Cantonese culture, also boasts incredible dim sum.
Planning a hong kong china itinerary could easily include a dim sum adventure. Many argue that Hong Kong’s dim sum scene is more innovative and internationally influenced, offering both traditional classics and modern takes on the cuisine.
Navigating the Dim Sum Menu: A Beginner’s Guide to Ordering Like a Pro
Essential Dim Sum Dishes
Stepping into a bustling dim sum restaurant can be overwhelming, especially with a menu full of unfamiliar names and descriptions.
Let’s break down some essential dishes to get you started and help you craft your perfect dim sum feast.
Consider this your guide to eat the best dim sum in China for beginners!
Dim Sum Cheat Sheet
Here’s a dim sum chart cheat sheet, complete with dish names and what you can expect!
And if you are not sure how to communicate with the staff, download wechat and find an in china wechat group to get a translation!
| Category | Dishes |
|---|---|
| Steamed Dishes | Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), Char Siu Bao (BBQ pork buns), Fung Zao (chicken feet), Cheung Fun (rice noodle rolls), Lo Mai Gai (sticky rice) |
| Fried Dishes | Spring Rolls, Ham Sui Gok (glutinous rice dumplings), Taro Dumplings, Fried Wonton |
| Sweet Treats | Egg Tarts, Mango Pudding, Sesame Balls |
Ordering and Eating Etiquette: A Quick Guide
Tea and Ordering Etiquette
Dim sum is traditionally served with tea (usually jasmine, oolong, or pu-erh). Let your server know your preference.
There are a few ways to order. Some restaurants use menus where you mark your selections.
Others use the traditional “cart service,” where servers wheel around carts filled with steaming dishes. Simply point at what you want!
Sharing and Chopstick Etiquette
Dim sum is meant to be shared! Order a variety of dishes and encourage everyone at the table to try a bit of everything.
Never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl – it resembles incense offerings for the dead.
Popular Dim Sum Dishes: Beyond the Basics
Adventurous Dim Sum Options
Once you’ve mastered the classics, it’s time to branch out and explore some more adventurous options.
Here are a few popular dim sum dishes to add to your list:
Xiao Long Bao (Soup dumplings), Radish Cake, Spare Ribs.
While preferences vary, Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) consistently rank as one of the most popular and beloved dim sum dishes. Their delicate flavor and translucent wrappers make them a true culinary masterpiece.
Pro-Tips for a Perfect Dim Sum Experience
Go Early: Dim sum restaurants are often packed, especially on weekends. Arrive early to avoid long waits.
Bring Friends: Dim sum is best enjoyed with a group. The more people, the more dishes you can try!
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: If you’re unsure about a dish, don’t hesitate to ask the server for recommendations.
Learn a Few Basic Mandarin/Cantonese Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xièxiè), and “how much?” (duōshao qián) will go a long way.
Embrace the Chaos: Dim sum restaurants can be noisy and chaotic, but that’s part of the fun! Embrace the atmosphere and enjoy the experience.
Eating dim sum in China is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. It’s a chance to connect with friends and family, savor delicious food, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine. I hope this guide to eat the best dim sum in China has armed you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on your own culinary adventure.
But do not limit yourself to dim sum if you are doing a china travel itinerary 3 weeks long. Beijing barbecue is something to try in the capital, or enjoy things to do in chongqing chongqing with their spicy food.
So, go forth, explore, and eat your heart out! And be sure to let me know in the comments below which dim sum dishes you discovered and loved the most. Happy eating! Zai jian! (再见 – Goodbye!)
