12 Delicious Ways to Dine on Dim Sum at Home
Whether it’s tapas or any of the other delicious hors d’oeuvres out there, there’s no question that small bites are a big hit. With Chinese New Year just around the corner, it’s time to up your dim sum game, beyond just dumplings. Invite folks over for a tea party, then blow their minds when you serve up these 12 splendid dishes in lieu of the usual sandos. We’d be surprised if you heard any complaints, or anything other than silence punctuated by the occasional “mmmm.”
2. Shrimp and Scallion Rolls: There are so many possibilities for what one can do with homemade rice noodles, and these flavorful shrimp and scallion rolls are a terrific place to start. (via The Woks of Life)
3. Veggie Egg Rolls: These veggie-stuffed rolls take a few liberties — phyllo dough instead of a pasta-like wrapper, baking instead of deep fat frying — but they’re every bit as delicious as any from the dim sum parlor. (via Thirsty for Tea)
4. Chinese Stuffed Eggplant: Steaming the eggplant gives it a soft, silky texture, making it a lovely counterpoint to the shrimp and pork stuffed inside. The finishing touch is an umami-rich pan sauce drizzled over top just before serving. To make it a meal, simply pair it with a side of fluffy steamed rice. (via The Woks of Life)
5. Pancakes With Crispy Peking Duck: Instead of roasting the duck from scratch, feel free to sub in an already cooked, Peking-style bird from the store. You’ll forget all about your favorite takeout mu shu once you bite into these thin, homemade pancakes. (via Fine Dining Lovers)
6. Cauliflower Rice Cake With Poor Man’s XO Sauce: This is a great alternative to the classic turnip cake and its sidekick (XO Sauce) that just so happens to be a whole lot nicer to your wallet. Don’t worry, your taste buds won’t mind one bit. (via Lady and Pups)
7. Scallion Pancakes (Gluten-Free): A cross between croissant, flat bread and flapjacks, it’s no wonder these scallion pancakes are a huge hit. (via Snixy Kitchen)
8. Dim Sum Chicken Feet: If you’ve never worked with chicken feet before, this may be a hard recipe to stomach. But trust that you’ll be paid back BIG TIME if you power through; there really isn’t anything quite like ’em. (via China Sichuan Food)
9. Black Bean Spareribs: There’s no grill required to cook up these ribs. Poached and then tossed in a savory mix of salted black beans, garlic, ginger and more before they go for a steam, these succulent spareribs will be ready in only about an hour. (via Kruizing With Kikukat)
10. Buttery + Crumbly Pineapple Tarts: These sweet-tart pastries are a popular choice around Chinese New Year, but those from a package often disappoint. Try your hand at these homemade gems and you’ll no doubt be delighted by the result. (via Burp! Appetit)
11. Custard Buns: Unlike many buns, these beauties are meant for dessert. Bite into the soft, steamed exterior to reveal a drop of thick, creamy and slightly sweet golden custard within. (via China Sichuan Food)
12. Inside-Out Black Sesame Sticky Rice Balls: You’ll need fewer than 10 ingredients to whip up these inside-out sticky rice balls. Flipping the script on the usual order of things — sugary sesame paste coating the exterior of gnocchi-like balls versus filling the inside — means they’re much easier for home cooks to throw together when cravings strike. (via Lady and Pups)
Do you have a favorite dim sum dish that you enjoy ordering out (or making at home)? Share yours with us below!
