If you grew up with humble beginnings or had to feed yourself, you probably learned the value of a dollar and appreciate simple food. On that same breath, the food pallet you developed always has a special place in your heart (or stomach). It’s the reason why you don’t shit on Kraft dinner, instant noodles, and Chef Boyardi because there was a time you weren’t “too good” for those foods. If you were, don’t bother reading the rest of this article.
You’re an adult now and you are in circles of people who talk about food and restaurant in some circles, it’s not always acceptable to celebrate the new spicy flavor ramen at a dinner party. Allow me to introduce you into the world of Dim Sum. In my culture, Dim sum is a Chinese cuisine comprised of various small savory dishes containing various fillings, served as a snack or main course predominantly prepared by steam or fried.
How to be Dim Sum savvy
Try a few Dim Sum restaurants and try everything. Here are key points to remember about dim Sum:
- Har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings) are staples to always order for the table
- There are four main prepared styles – steamed, fried, dessert, and specials
- Pick a few favorite dishes and why you love it
- Have a few local dim sum places to recommend
I personally like dim sum because it’s affordable (at most places), and I enjoy the different flavors, textures, and preparation methods of each restaurant. It’s the kind of food that’s not a mystery – what you see is what it is. It is common food that typically has no social class segregation; where rich and poor are sitting close to one another eating the same thing.
So congratulations, you’re now a bit more cultured than before reading this article with food. Feel free to treat me to dim sum after reading this. It’s culturally acceptable.
UPDATE
Someone asked a great question: Did you try Tim Ho Wan in NYC?
Yes I did. I was not a fan for many reasons. Toronto’s average dim sum restaurants prepare foods far better. If you’re in NYC, I wouldn’t recommend spending the time or money. Go to Jing Fong in Chinatown instead. Strictly Dumpling and Cici’s Food Paradise did a great segment of the restaurant and dishes.See below.
