Dim sum recipes like these keep plates moving and the table active without much pause. These 9 picks bring a mix of steamed, fried, and bite-sized options that are easy to share. Some are quick to prep, others take a bit more time but pay off once everything is set out. It’s the kind of spread that keeps everyone reaching for one more.
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Char Siu
Char Siu sets the pace early with its sweet and savory glaze that keeps people reaching for more. The pork roasts until tender, building flavor without needing complicated steps. It slices easily and works across multiple plates, keeping the table active. This is the kind of dish that makes sure things don’t slow down once service starts.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu
Char Siu Bao
Char Siu Bao keeps the momentum going with soft buns wrapped around rich, savory filling. They’re easy to grab and even easier to keep coming back to. Steamed in batches, they keep the flow steady without long pauses. This is how plates keep circulating without anyone waiting.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao
Crystal Dumplings
Crystal Dumplings bring a lighter bite that still holds attention at the table. The translucent wrappers and flavorful filling keep things balanced without feeling heavy. They cook quickly and move just as fast once served. This is the kind of dish that disappears as soon as it lands.
Get the Recipe: Crystal Dumplings
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons add crisp texture that keeps the rotation interesting. The filling comes together simply, while the fry gives them a strong finish. They’re easy to batch and serve continuously. This keeps plates moving without breaking the rhythm.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons
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Mantou
Mantou keeps things simple while still holding its place in the lineup. The soft, steamed buns are easy to pair with other dishes or dips. They’re quick to prepare in batches and easy to pass around. This is a steady addition that keeps the table active without slowing things down.
Get the Recipe: Mantou
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup adds a warm option that still fits into a fast-moving spread. The wontons cook quickly in broth, making it easy to serve continuously. It’s light enough to keep things balanced while still filling. This keeps the flow going without weighing the table down.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup
Black Sesame Cookies
Black Sesame Cookies bring a slightly sweet break without interrupting the pace. The nutty flavor and crisp texture keep people reaching for more. They’re easy to make ahead and serve in batches. This keeps the table stocked without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies
Spicy cucumber salad
Spicy cucumber salad cuts through richer dishes and keeps everything moving. It’s quick to assemble with a few ingredients that deliver sharp flavor. Served chilled, it refreshes the table without slowing things down. This is a simple way to keep plates rotating without pause.
Get the Recipe: Spicy cucumber salad
Har Gow
Har Gow anchors the spread with its delicate wrapper and shrimp filling. They steam quickly and are easy to serve in rounds. Each batch disappears fast, keeping the table engaged. This is the kind of dish that makes nonstop serving feel effortless.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow
Robin Donovan is an AP syndicated writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and author of more than 40 cookbooks including the bestsellers Ramen Obsession and Ramen for Beginners. Her work is featured by major media outlets including Huffington Post, MSN, Chicago Sun-Times, Orlando Sentinel, Buzzfeed, Cooking Light, Mercury News, Seattle Times, Pop Sugar, and many others. More about Robin