Dim sum, the beloved Cantonese culinary tradition, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. This delightful assortment of small, bite-sized dishes offers a world of flavor and variety, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to spice up your meal routine, dim sum is an excellent choice.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 delicious dim sum recipes that cater to every palate and preference. From classic favorites like Steamed Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai and Fluffy Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns) to innovative twists like Spicy Sichuan Wontons and Pumpkin and Shrimp Dumplings, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for a culinary adventure that will take your taste buds on a wild ride!
Steamed Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Steamed Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai is a delicate and flavorful treat that’s easy to make at home. This recipe yields 12-15 pieces of siu mai.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
– 12-15 shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups water
– Bamboo steamers or metal steamer baskets with steamer inserts
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 12-15 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small oval or sphere.
3. Place a shrimp in the center of each siu mai. Fold the pork mixture over the shrimp to form a neat package.
4. Place the siu mai in the steamer baskets, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Steam the siu mai over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings
Transform traditional Chinese comfort food into a crispy and savory delight with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and scallions. Mix well.
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.
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. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
6. When the oil is hot, add the dumplings (do not overcrowd) and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the dumplings from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fluffy Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
Fluffy Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
Experience the classic Cantonese treat, Fluffy Char Siu Bao, with a soft and fluffy exterior wrapping around a sweet and savory BBQ pork filling. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional method, making it accessible to bakers of all levels.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Filling ingredients (see below)
- 1/2 cup BBQ pork, shredded
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Mix yeast and warm water in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide into small portions.
- Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten it slightly.
- Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center. Fold the dough over to form a bun.
- Cook the buns for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Serve warm.
Filling:
Delicate Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
Delicate Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings) Recipe
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Cantonese cuisine with these delicate shrimp dumplings, wrapped in a thin dough wrapper and steamed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons 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 fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dampen the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, making sure to seal the filling inside.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Savory Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)
This traditional Cantonese dish is a flavorful and savory cake made with turnips, pork, and spices. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large turnip, peeled and grated
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated turnip, ground pork, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and chopped scallions. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is lightly browned and set.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Golden Egg Custard Tarts
Golden Egg Custard Tarts Recipe
These flaky pastry tarts filled with a rich and creamy golden egg custard are perfect for any occasion, from brunch to dessert. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Place a spoonful of the custard mixture onto one half of each pastry square.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf
This traditional Chinese dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, with sweet glutinous rice filling the folds of delicate lotus leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4-6 lotus leaves (fresh or frozen)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions and/or 1/4 cup dried shrimp for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly, then soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, sugar, salt, sesame oil, and vegetable oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is sticky and slightly caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, prepare the lotus leaves by rinsing them in cold water and pat drying with paper towels.
4. To assemble the Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf, place a small spoonful of cooked rice onto the center of each leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Fold the leaf over the filling to form a neat package.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped scallions and/or dried shrimp if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including rice soaking time)
Spicy Sichuan Wontons
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this recipe for spicy wontons, filled with a savory mixture of pork and chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn powder (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to desired spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, Sichuan peppercorn powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling 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 wonton.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook wontons in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chewy Sesame Balls
These chewy sesame balls are a delightful snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped scallions or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and sesame seeds.
2. Gradually add in vegetable oil and mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Roll each ball between your palms to shape and smooth out.
6. Place sesame balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Chive and Pork Dumplings
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the savory flavors of pork and chives with a delicate dumpling wrapper, all pan-fried to a crispy perfection. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped chives, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. 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. Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the dumplings and pan-fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including preparation time.
Steamed Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and exotic twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the tender goodness of steamed chicken feet with the rich, earthy taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken feet, patted dry
– 1 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken feet under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, place the chicken feet in a single layer.
3. Steam the chicken feet over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix the mashed black beans with soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil.
5. Serve the steamed chicken feet with the black bean sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Scallop and Shrimp Dumplings
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the savory flavor of shrimp, wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup fresh scallops, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together scallops, shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling 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. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 8-10 minutes
– Pan-frying: 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown
Crispy Taro Dumplings
Discover the delightful combination of taro’s subtle sweetness and crispy texture in these addictive dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large taro root, peeled and grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated taro, flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the dumplings in batches, about 3-4 at a time, until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the number of dumplings you fry at once.
Enjoy your crispy taro dumplings!
Beef and Mushroom Rice Noodle Rolls
These savory rolls are a twist on traditional spring rolls, filled with tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and fragrant rice noodles. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice noodles
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, cook beef strips until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked beef back into the pan with mushrooms and stir to combine. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. To assemble rolls, place a few noodles on a flat surface, followed by a spoonful of the beef-mushroom mixture. Roll up tightly, applying gentle pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Red Bean Paste Buns
Sweet Red Bean Paste Buns Recipe
These soft and fluffy buns filled with sweet red bean paste make a perfect breakfast or snack treat. Perfectly balanced between crispy and chewy, these buns are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add sugar, warm water, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shape.
6. Place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center of each disk, leaving a small border around it.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a bun shape, pressing edges to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg for a glaze.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Spare Ribs with Garlic
This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ spare ribs by steaming them to tender perfection and infusing them with the savory flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork spare ribs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the spare ribs in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each rack.
4. Brush the garlic-soy mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam the ribs for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Spring Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls, this recipe fills crispy rice paper wrappers with a colorful mix of vegetables and a hint of sesame oil. Perfect for a quick snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and scallions.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil; toss until vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Lay a rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve immediately, or store refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation)
Pumpkin and Shrimp Dumplings
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of shrimp, wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper. Perfect for fall or any time you want to add some seasonal flair to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin-shrimp 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. Cook dumplings by steaming for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying in oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a delicious culinary journey with these 18 mouth-watering dim sum recipes! From classic Siu Mai and Har Gow to innovative twists like Pumpkin and Shrimp Dumplings, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to satisfy your cravings at home, these recipes are sure to impress. With a range of options from savory Turnip Cake and Spicy Sichuan Wontons to sweet Golden Egg Custard Tarts, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the art of dim sum like never before!
