Food And Cuisine Questions Long
A traditional Chinese dim sum platter typically consists of a variety of bite-sized dishes that are served in small steamer baskets or on small plates. These dishes are usually enjoyed during breakfast or lunchtime and are commonly served in dim sum restaurants or teahouses. The main components of a traditional Chinese dim sum platter include:
1. Steamed Dumplings: These are one of the most popular and iconic dim sum dishes. They come in various fillings such as pork, shrimp, chicken, or vegetables, wrapped in a thin translucent dough.
2. Siu Mai: Siu Mai is a type of open-faced dumpling made with a mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and sometimes mushrooms. It is typically garnished with a small piece of crab roe or a green pea on top.
3. Har Gow: Har Gow is a delicate steamed dumpling filled with fresh shrimp. The dumpling wrapper is thin and translucent, allowing the vibrant pink color of the shrimp to show through.
4. Char Siu Bao: Also known as barbecue pork buns, these are fluffy steamed buns filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork. The buns can be either white or slightly yellow in color.
5. Cheong Fun: Cheong Fun is a type of rice noodle roll that is filled with ingredients such as shrimp, beef, or char siu. It is often served with a light soy sauce or sweet hoisin sauce.
6. Turnip Cake: Turnip cake, also known as radish cake, is made from shredded radish and rice flour. It is steamed and then pan-fried to create a crispy exterior. It is usually served in slices.
7. Egg Tarts: These are small pastries with a flaky crust and a creamy egg custard filling. They are often served warm and have a slightly sweet taste.
8. Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf: Sticky rice is mixed with various ingredients such as Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and dried shrimp, then wrapped in a lotus leaf and steamed. The lotus leaf imparts a unique aroma to the rice.
9. Bean Curd Skin Rolls: These rolls are made by wrapping bean curd sheets around a filling of vegetables, mushrooms, or meat. They are then steamed and served with a savory sauce.
10. Chicken Feet: Chicken feet are a popular dim sum dish, often braised or steamed with a flavorful sauce. They have a gelatinous texture and are enjoyed for their rich flavor.
These are just some of the main components of a traditional Chinese dim sum platter. The variety and selection of dishes may vary depending on the region and the specific dim sum restaurant. Dim sum is not only about the food but also about the communal dining experience and the enjoyment of sharing small plates with friends and family.