Originating in the tea houses of late 19th-century Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province (China), dim sum later flourished in places like Hong Kong. Silk Road merchants would take breaks in these tea houses, enjoying dim sum meals consisting of small, simple dishes. As they traveled the world, they spread this style of dining, leading to the global popularity of dim sum.
Some tips for eating dim sum correctly. Video: Mai Anh
Nguyen Tran Minh, manager of the Cantonese-style Ming restaurant in Hanoi, offers some advice on the proper way to enjoy dim sum.
Tea is the perfect pairing
Given dim sum's origins in tea houses, tea is the ideal beverage. Chrysanthemum or pu-erh tea is often served throughout the meal. It cleanses the palate at the beginning, aids digestion during the meal, and provides a refreshing finish. If your teacup is empty, subtly lift the lid to signal to the staff that you need a refill.
Use both a spoon and chopsticks
Both a spoon and chopsticks are essential for the dim sum experience. For xiao long bao, small steamed buns filled with pork and broth, use chopsticks to place a bun on your spoon. Gently bite into the bun to release the soup into the spoon and savor the broth. The bun's wrapper is eaten last.
Dip in soy sauce
Soy sauce combined with ginger vinegar, chili oil, or mustard is a popular accompaniment to dim sum. Dip lightly, avoiding soaking the entire piece, to enhance the umami flavor without overpowering the dish's original taste. With xiao long bao, only dip the wrapper after consuming the broth.
Eat from your own plate
Diners are provided with individual plates. Transfer food from the shared dishes to your own plate or bowl before eating. This demonstrates politeness and respect for your fellow diners.
Eat while hot
A good dim sum meal balances steamed, fried, and baked dishes, as well as heavier and lighter options. Start with savory items, and save sweet desserts for the end. Importantly, all dim sum should be enjoyed hot.
Take small bites
It's best to take small bites rather than consuming an entire piece of dim sum at once. This allows you to fully appreciate the flavors. Eating too quickly can also burn your mouth.
Tam Anh
