Dim sum is a delicious and popular Chinese cuisine that has been enjoyed for centuries. If you’re new to dim sum, you might be wondering what it is and how to enjoy it. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dim sum, including its history, types of dishes, and tips for enjoying this delectable cuisine.
What is Dim Sum?
Dim sum is a style of Chinese cuisine that originated in the Guangdong province of China. It consists of small, bite-sized portions of food that are served in steamer baskets or on small plates. Dim sum dishes are often served in a communal setting, with diners sharing and trying different dishes.
Types of Dim Sum
There are many different types of dim sum dishes, ranging from savory to sweet. Some of the most popular dim sum dishes include:
- Siu Mai – steamed pork and shrimp dumplings
- Har Gow – steamed shrimp dumplings
- Char Siu Bao – steamed barbecue pork buns
- Cheung Fun – steamed rice noodle rolls filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables
- Lo Bak Go – pan-fried turnip cake
- Egg Tarts – sweet, flaky tarts with an egg custard filling
How to Enjoy Dim Sum
To fully enjoy the dim sum experience, it’s best to go with a group of people so you can try a variety of dishes. Dim sum is typically served on small plates or in steamer baskets, so it’s easy to share and try different dishes.
When ordering dim sum, it’s important to pace yourself and not order too much at once. Start with a few dishes and then order more as you go. You can also ask your server for recommendations or to explain unfamiliar dishes.
One important aspect of enjoying dim sum is to drink tea. Chinese tea is often served with dim sum, and it’s believed that the tea helps to cleanse the palate between dishes. It’s also a great way to round out the dim sum experience and try different tea varieties.
Sacramento Dim Sum Specialists
If you’re a dim sum lover in Sacramento, you’ll be happy to know that there are several restaurants in the city that serve this delectable Chinese cuisine. From traditional dim sum favorites to modern twists on classic dishes, here are some of the best places to get dim sum in Sacramento.
New Canton Restaurant
New Canton Restaurant is a local favorite for Chinese dim sum in Sacramento. This traditional Cantonese restaurant serves a variety of dim sum dishes, including siu mai, har gow, and char siu bao. The restaurant has a large dining area and is a great spot for groups.
Frank Fat’s
Frank Fat’s is a popular Chinese restaurant that serves both traditional and modern dim sum dishes. Some of the restaurant’s most popular dim sum dishes include the pork buns, potstickers, and sesame balls. Frank Fat’s has a lively atmosphere and is a great spot for a weekend brunch.
Hong Kong Islander
Hong Kong Islander is a modern Chinese restaurant that offers a unique twist on traditional dim sum dishes. The restaurant serves a variety of fusion dishes, including the popular “dim sum pizza” and “dim sum nachos”. The restaurant has a sleek, modern decor and is perfect for a fun night out.
Ming Dynasty
Ming Dynasty is a high-end Chinese restaurant that serves some of the best dim sum in Sacramento. The restaurant’s dim sum menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including shrimp dumplings, crab meat and pork soup dumplings, and steamed lobster. Fortune House is a great spot for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
King Palace Restaurant
King Palace Restaurant is a popular dim sum spot in Sacramento that offers a wide range of dishes at affordable prices. The restaurant’s dim sum menu includes classic dishes like pork buns and egg tarts, as well as more unique options like pumpkin cakes and fried taro dumplings. King Palace is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Journey To The Dumpling
Journey To The Dumpling is a family-owned Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of dumplings, bao buns, and other dim sum dishes. Some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes include the juicy pork dumplings and the spicy Sichuan wontons. Journey To The Dumpling has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
In Conclusion
Dim sum is a wonderful and delicious Chinese cuisine that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. By following the tips in this beginner’s guide, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the dim sum experience and discover your new favorite dish. So go ahead and give dim sum a try – you won’t be disappointed!
