Dim sum, which translates to “touch of the heart” in Cantonese, is a popular Chinese cuisine that consists of a variety of bite-sized dishes typically served in small bamboo steamers or on small plates. It originated in the southern region of China, specifically in the province of Guangdong, and has since gained widespread popularity both in China and around the world.
The history of dim sum can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) when teahouses began offering small bites of food alongside tea. These small snacks were initially intended to complement and enhance the tea-drinking experience. Over time, people started to appreciate the food itself, and dim sum grew to become a standalone culinary tradition.
One of the earliest dim sum dishes that continues to be popular today is siu mai, a dumpling made with pork, shrimp, and other delectable fillings. Siu mai, which means “to touch the heart” in Cantonese, symbolizes the essence of dim sum itself.
During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), the tradition of yum cha, meaning “drinking tea” in Cantonese, emerged. Yum cha became a social activity where friends and family gathered at teahouses to drink tea, eat dim sum, and engage in conversation. It was during this period that the concept of the dim sum restaurant as we know it today started to take shape.
Dim sum continued to evolve and adapt to regional tastes over the centuries. In the southern regions of China, particularly in Hong Kong, dim sum became more elaborate and refined. Chefs began to experiment with different ingredients and techniques, resulting in a wider variety of dim sum dishes. In contrast, in northern China, dim sum remained simpler and focused on staple ingredients like wheat flour and meat.
Today, dim sum is not only a culinary delight but also a significant part of Chinese culture. It is commonly enjoyed during family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. The communal nature of dim sum dining encourages sharing and creates a sense of togetherness.
In Chinese culture, dim sum is also closely associated with luck and prosperity. Many dim sum dishes are shaped like traditional Chinese symbols that represent good fortune and wishes for a prosperous future. For example, the golden ingot-shaped dim sum is believed to symbolize wealth and abundance.
Dim sum has also become an integral part of Chinese cuisine’s global presence. Dim sum restaurants can be found in major cities around the world, showcasing the diversity and richness of Chinese culinary heritage. These restaurants not only serve authentic dim sum but also provide an immersive cultural experience for diners.