Dim sum recipes have a way of turning a meal into a steady flow of small plates. These 9 ideas keep the small bites coming, from dumplings to buns and other shareable picks. They work well when the table is full and everyone wants a little of everything. One plate finishes, and another rolls out.
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Char Siu Bao
Char Siu Bao bring soft steamed buns filled with sweet and savory roasted pork. The fluffy dough holds a rich char siu filling that stays tender and flavorful. They’re easy to portion and perfect for passing around the table. Char Siu Bao keep small bites rolling out just like a proper dim sum spread.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao
Char Siu
Char Siu delivers slices of sweet, savory roasted pork that work well as a centerpiece or a filling. The glaze caramelizes while roasting, giving the meat deep flavor and color. It’s simple to slice and serve alongside other small plates. Char Siu keeps the dim sum lineup moving with bold flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu
Mantou
Mantou offer soft, steamed buns that pair easily with savory dishes or dipping sauces. The texture stays fluffy and mild, making them a reliable part of a dim sum table. They’re simple but satisfying with each bite. Mantou keep small bites rolling out with a classic steamed bun.
Get the Recipe: Mantou
Crystal Dumplings
Crystal Dumplings feature delicate wrappers that turn slightly translucent once steamed. Inside, a savory filling provides balance to the tender dough. They look impressive but come together with straightforward steps. Crystal Dumplings keep small bites rolling out with a light but flavorful dumpling.
Get the Recipe: Crystal Dumplings
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Spicy Cucumber Salad
Spicy Cucumber Salad adds a cool, crisp contrast to the richer dim sum dishes. Cucumbers toss with garlic, chili, and tangy seasoning for a quick side. It’s refreshing and easy to prepare between batches of dumplings. Spicy Cucumber Salad keeps small bites rolling out with a sharp, lively break.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad
Black Sesame Cookies
Black Sesame Cookies bring a nutty flavor that rounds out the dim sum table with something sweet. The cookies stay crisp on the outside with a tender center. They’re small enough to enjoy between savory bites. Black Sesame Cookies keep the dim sum spread moving with a simple dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies
Har Gow
Har Gow deliver shrimp dumplings wrapped in thin, tender dough. The filling stays juicy while the wrappers hold their delicate shape after steaming. They’re a staple on any dim sum table. Har Gow keep small bites rolling out with a classic seafood dumpling.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons combine savory filling with crisp golden wrappers. The pork and shrimp stay juicy while the outside adds a satisfying crunch. They cook quickly and pair well with dipping sauce. Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons keep small bites rolling out with a crispy addition to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup
Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup brings tender dumplings into a light, savory broth. The wontons stay soft while the soup keeps the dish balanced. It’s a warm option that fits easily among smaller plates. Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup keeps small bites rolling out with a comforting bowl between dumplings.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Shrimp Wonton Soup
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