When it comes to Chinese cuisine, there’s one meal that stands out from the rest: dim sum. This Cantonese culinary tradition is all about sharing small plates of delicious food with friends and family – think of it as a fusion of tapas and brunch. But what makes dim sum so special? For starters, the variety of dishes is staggering. From savory to sweet, spicy to delicate, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 irresistible dim sum recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned dim sum enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating authentic dim sum dishes at home. So let’s get started with some classic favorites…
Steamed Pork Siu Mai
Pork siu mai is a Cantonese dim sum dish that consists of steamed pork and shrimp dumplings wrapped in a delicate wrapper. This recipe makes 12-15 pieces.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked shrimp
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 12-15 wonton wrappers (about 3 inches square)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, scallions, garlic, shrimp, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the siu mai over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Har Gow is a delicate and flavorful shrimp dumpling wrapped in a thin dough wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the Har Gow over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
Summary: This classic Cantonese recipe combines tender pork with sweet and savory BBQ sauce, wrapped in flaky pastry dough. Perfect for a delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and five-spice powder. Mix well.
3. Lay out a wonton wrapper. Place 1-2 tsp of the pork mixture in the center.
4. Brush edges with water. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing both corners together to form a point. Press edges to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and pork mixture.
6. Place buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls)
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Cheung Fun is a delicate rice noodle roll filled with shrimp and vegetables. Learn how to make this popular treat at home!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice flour noodles
– 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, cabbage)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice flour noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry until the shrimp is pink and the vegetables are tender.
3. To assemble the Cheung Fun, lay a cooked noodle flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp and vegetable mixture in the center of the noodle.
4. Fold the noodle over the filling to form a cylinder shape. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)
This traditional Cantonese dessert is a sweet and savory delight, perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated turnip, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add vegetable oil, eggs, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9-inch (23cm) square cake pan.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool. Cut into squares and garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Egg Custard Tarts
Egg Custard Tarts Recipe
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These classic French tarts are a staple of patisserie, with a silky smooth egg custard filling and a buttery pastry crust. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these elegant treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use pastry blender or fingers to work into dough until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into 12-inch tart pan with removable bottom.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour egg mixture into prepared tart crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
Xiao Long Bao is a type of Chinese soup dumpling that originated from the Shanghai region. These delicate, tender dumplings are filled with pork and a savory broth, which releases its flavorful contents when you take a bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Pork broth or chicken stock for serving
Filling:
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
8. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10-15 minutes or steam them for 20-25 minutes.
9. Serve with pork broth or chicken stock.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)
A classic Chinese dessert, Sesame Balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a nutty flavor from the sesame seeds. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the edges with water and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
7. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle or a square shape.
8. Deep-fry the Sesame Balls in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including frying time.
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Sesame Balls!
Pan-Fried Chive Dumplings
Elevate your meal with these crispy, savory dumplings infused with the subtle flavor of chives.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a tablespoon of chopped chives in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium heat.
8. Pan-fry dumplings until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Beef Ball Dim Sum
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Beef Ball Dim Sum is a savory and flavorful treat that combines tender beef with a delicate wrapping of dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Fry the dumplings in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf
A classic Chinese dessert, Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped lotus leaves (dried or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine with sugar, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cut a piece of lotus leaf to fit a small bowl or steamer basket. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the leaf over the rice to form a compact bundle. Repeat for remaining rice.
5. Steam the sticky rice packets over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fragrant.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped lotus leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Discover the delightful combination of crunchy vegetables and soft rice wrapped in a crispy spring roll wrapper. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked rice, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and scallions.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges with sesame oil and fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling.
4. Fold in the sides and then roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes to fry all the spring rolls.
Chicken Feet in Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken feet, this recipe combines the tender and juicy meat with a rich black bean sauce for an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken feet
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse chicken feet and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Place chicken feet in a baking dish and spoon black bean sauce over each foot.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until chicken feet are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Taro Dumplings
These bite-sized treats combine the earthy sweetness of taro with the comfort of traditional wontons. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup taro puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– Filling of your choice (e.g., chopped pork, shrimp, or vegetables)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine taro puree, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Add vegetable oil and eggs to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a dumpling shape. Press edges together to seal.
7. Cook dumplings by steaming for 10-12 minutes or pan-frying with a little oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Scallion Pancakes
Discover the savory charm of these crispy, golden pancakes infused with the pungency of scallions. Perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 large eggs
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in warm water and eggs to form a smooth batter.
3. Stir in scallions and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Using a ladle, pour batter into the skillet, forming small pancakes.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious Scallion Pancakes!
Fried Shrimp Toast
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and savory Fried Shrimp Toast recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or evening bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen shrimp, thawed and peeled
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 4 slices of white bread (toasted)
– Lemon wedges and cocktail sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, toast bread slices until lightly browned.
5. Place fried shrimp on top of toasted bread and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Optional: add a squeeze of lemon juice and a dollop of cocktail sauce for added flavor.)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prawn Cheung Fun
A classic Cantonese dish, Prawn Cheung Fun is a delicious and delicate rice noodle roll filled with succulent prawns and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice noodle sheets (cheung fun)
– 1/2 cup of prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup of bean sprouts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Soy sauce and oyster sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodle sheets according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the prawns, scallions, bean sprouts, and garlic. Stir-fry until the prawns are pink and cooked through.
3. Lay a cooked rice noodle sheet flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the prawn mixture onto the center of the noodle.
4. Fold the bottom half of the noodle up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Serve immediately with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
Baked BBQ Pork Puffs
Satisfy your cravings with these tender, flavorful pork puffs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of wonton wrappers
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center. Brush edges with water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
5. Place puffs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each puff.
6. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the puffs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a dim sum extravaganza with these 18 irresistible recipes! From classic Steamed Pork Siu Mai and Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings) to sweet treats like Egg Custard Tarts, there’s something for every occasion. This collection includes a variety of dishes, including Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns), Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls), Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go), and more. Whether you’re looking for savory or sweet, this array of dim sum recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
