Historic Macau: Exploring the Old Town’s ColoMacanese Cuisine: CulinarDim Sum Delights: A Culinary Journey through Hong Kongy Adventures in Macaunial Architecture

Feb 23

Unveiling the Origins: A Brief History of Dim Sum

Dim sum, a beloved culinary tradition, has deep roots in Chinese culture and cuisine, and exploring its origins offers insights into its evolution and significance in Hong Kong's vibrant culinary scene.

Ancient Beginnings: Dim sum traces its origins back to the teahouses along the ancient Silk Road, where weary travelers sought refreshment and sustenance during their long journeys. These early teahouses offered small snacks and bite-sized dishes, which gradually evolved into the dim sum we know today.
Imperial China: Dim sum gained popularity during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) as a staple of the royal court cuisine. Initially served as simple snacks or appetizers, dim sum soon became synonymous with leisurely dining and social gatherings among the elite classes, who enjoyed the variety of flavors and textures offered by these small, steamed delicacies.
Teahouse Culture: During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), teahouses emerged as social hubs where people gathered to relax, socialize, and enjoy tea and snacks. Dim sum became a central feature of teahouse culture, with teahouses competing to offer the most delectable and innovative dim sum creations to their discerning patrons.
Evolution in Hong Kong: Dim sum flourished in Hong Kong during the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 AD) and early Republic of China era (1912-1949 AD), fueled by waves of immigration from mainland China and the influx of Cantonese culinary traditions. Hong Kong's bustling teahouses and dim sum parlors became synonymous with conviviality and culinary excellence, attracting locals and tourists alike to savor the city's diverse dim sum offerings.
Modern Era: In the modern era, dim sum has evolved to reflect changing tastes and culinary trends, with traditional recipes being reinterpreted and modernized to appeal to contemporary palates. While classic dim sum dishes such as har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings) remain perennial favorites, chefs and restaurateurs continue to innovate and experiment with new ingredients, flavors, and presentations to keep the tradition alive and relevant in today's culinary landscape.

In summary, dim sum's rich history and cultural significance reflect the diverse influences and culinary heritage of Hong Kong. From its humble beginnings in ancient teahouses to its present-day prominence in the city's bustling eateries and restaurants, dim sum continues to captivate diners with its tantalizing flavors, artistic presentations, and communal dining experiences, making it an integral part of Hong Kong's culinary identity.

Top Dim Sum Spots: Where to Find the Best Bites in Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts a plethora of dim sum establishments, ranging from traditional teahouses to upscale restaurants, each offering its own unique ambiance, culinary expertise, and signature dishes. Here are some top dim sum spots where you can find the best bites in Hong Kong:

Tim Ho Wan: Known as the "world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant," Tim Ho Wan is celebrated for its exceptional dim sum at affordable prices. With multiple locations across Hong Kong, including its original outlet in Mong Kok, Tim Ho Wan delights diners with its crispy barbecue pork buns, steamed dumplings, and other classic dim sum delights.
Lin Heung Tea House: Stepping into Lin Heung Tea House feels like a journey back in time, with its nostalgic ambiance and traditional teahouse setting. Founded in 1926, this iconic establishment in Central serves authentic Cantonese dim sum, including steamed buns, dumplings, and rice rolls, amidst the hustle and bustle of dim sum carts and lively atmosphere.
Maxim's Palace City Hall: Located in City Hall in Central, Maxim's Palace is one of Hong Kong's most famous dim sum destinations, renowned for its grand dining hall, ornate decor, and extensive dim sum menu. Diners can enjoy a wide variety of steamed, fried, and baked dim sum specialties while overlooking panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.
Din Tai Fung: Originating from Taiwan, Din Tai Fung has gained a global reputation for its meticulously crafted xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and other Taiwanese specialties. In Hong Kong, Din Tai Fung's branches offer an extensive dim sum selection, including their signature dumplings, noodles, and side dishes, served in a modern and elegant setting.
One Dim Sum: Tucked away in Prince Edward, One Dim Sum is a hidden gem beloved by locals and visitors alike for its delicious dim sum at reasonable prices. Despite its unassuming exterior, One Dim Sum impresses diners with its flavorful dumplings, steamed buns, and rice rolls, making it a must-visit destination for dim sum aficionados.
Jumbo Kingdom: For a truly unforgettable dining experience, consider visiting Jumbo Kingdom, a floating restaurant complex in Aberdeen Harbour. Boasting elaborate decor, stunning views, and a diverse menu of Cantonese specialties, Jumbo Kingdom offers an opulent setting to enjoy dim sum while cruising on the waters of Hong Kong.
Luk Yu Tea House: Established in 1933, Luk Yu Tea House exudes old-world charm and elegance, making it a favorite haunt for dim sum connoisseurs and history enthusiasts alike. Located in Central, Luk Yu Tea House offers an extensive selection of classic dim sum dishes served in an atmospheric setting reminiscent of Hong Kong's colonial past.

These are just a few of the many outstanding dim sum spots in Hong Kong, each offering a unique culinary experience and showcasing the city's rich culinary heritage and diverse dining scene. Whether you prefer traditional teahouses, modern eateries, or luxurious dining establishments, Hong Kong's dim sum scene promises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Must-Try Dim Sum Dishes: From Steamed Delicacies to Crispy Treats

Dim sum is renowned for its diverse array of mouthwatering dishes, each offering a unique blend of flavors, textures, and culinary craftsmanship. When exploring Hong Kong's vibrant dim sum scene, be sure to sample these must-try dishes that exemplify the essence of this beloved culinary tradition:

Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): Har Gow is perhaps one of the most iconic and beloved dim sum dishes. These translucent, pleated dumplings are filled with succulent shrimp and delicately seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. The wrapper is made from a thin, translucent dough that showcases the vibrant orange color of the shrimp within. Har Gow is a true test of a dim sum chef's skill, as achieving the perfect balance of wrapper thickness and shrimp filling requires precision and expertise.
Siu Mai (Pork Dumplings): Siu Mai are open-faced dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and aromatic seasonings such as ginger, green onions, and soy sauce. Topped with a garnish of bright orange fish roe or diced carrots, Siu Mai are both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. These bite-sized morsels are steamed to perfection and often served with a side of spicy mustard or chili sauce for added flavor.
Char Siu Bao (Barbecue Pork Buns): Char Siu Bao are fluffy, steamed buns filled with tender slices of sweet and savory barbecue pork. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the filling boasts a rich and flavorful combination of char siu sauce, hoisin sauce, and aromatic spices. Char Siu Bao can be enjoyed as a delightful snack or as part of a dim sum meal, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.
Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): Cheung Fun are delicate rice noodle rolls filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, beef, or barbecue pork, and then drenched in a savory soy sauce or sweet hoisin sauce. These silky smooth rolls are steamed to perfection, resulting in a tender and translucent texture that melts in your mouth. Cheung Fun is often enjoyed as a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs well with other dim sum delicacies.
Lo Bak Go (Turnip Cake): Lo Bak Go is a savory cake made from shredded radish, Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and rice flour, then pan-fried to golden perfection. The exterior is crispy and caramelized, while the interior is soft and chewy, with bursts of umami flavor from the savory ingredients. Lo Bak Go is often sliced into squares and served with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping, making it a popular dim sum favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings): Originating from Shanghai, Xiao Long Bao are delicate dumplings filled with savory pork and a rich, flavorful broth. The dumplings are carefully pleated and steamed to perfection, resulting in a thin, translucent wrapper that encases the fragrant soup and tender meat filling. Xiao Long Bao are typically enjoyed by carefully picking up the dumpling, dipping it in a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar, and savoring the explosion of flavors with each bite.
Egg Tarts: While not traditionally considered a dim sum dish, Hong Kong-style egg tarts are a delightful sweet treat often enjoyed at the end of a dim sum meal. These delectable pastries feature a flaky, buttery crust filled with a smooth and creamy egg custard, resulting in a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Egg tarts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with their golden brown crusts still warm and crisp.

These must-try dim sum dishes represent just a fraction of the diverse and tantalizing offerings available in Hong Kong's vibrant culinary scene. Whether you're a seasoned dim sum aficionado or a first-time visitor, exploring the rich flavors and textures of these iconic dishes promises to be a delicious and unforgettable experience.

Beyond the Dumplings: Exploring the Diverse Dim Sum Menu

While dumplings may be the star attraction of dim sum, Hong Kong's culinary scene offers a plethora of other delectable dishes that are equally worthy of exploration. Here are some diverse dim sum options to consider when venturing beyond the dumplings:

Char Siu Sou (Barbecue Pork Pastry): Char Siu Sou is a delightful pastry filled with savory barbecue pork filling. The flaky, buttery crust encases the flavorful char siu mixture, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness in every bite. Char Siu Sou is often served as a crispy and satisfying appetizer or snack during dim sum meals.
Sticky Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf (Lo Mai Gai): Lo Mai Gai is a classic dim sum dish featuring sticky rice steamed with flavorful ingredients such as Chinese sausage, shiitake mushrooms, and marinated chicken or pork, all wrapped in a fragrant lotus leaf. The lotus leaf imparts a subtle earthy aroma to the rice, while the filling provides a medley of savory and umami flavors. Lo Mai Gai is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for sharing among friends and family.
Egg Custard Buns (Lai Wong Bao): Lai Wong Bao is a decadent dim sum dessert consisting of fluffy steamed buns filled with rich and creamy egg custard. The buns are typically made from a sweet and tender dough that complements the smooth and velvety custard filling. Lai Wong Bao is best enjoyed warm, with its luscious custard center oozing out with each bite, creating a delightful explosion of flavor and texture.
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go): Lo Bak Go is a savory dim sum dish made from shredded radish, Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and rice flour, which is then pan-fried to crispy perfection. The exterior of the cake is golden and crispy, while the interior is soft and flavorful, with bursts of umami from the savory ingredients. Lo Bak Go is often sliced into squares and served with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Sesame Balls (Jin Deui): Jin Deui are deep-fried glutinous rice balls coated in sesame seeds and filled with a sweet, gooey filling such as red bean paste or lotus seed paste. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the chewy interior, creating a delightful textural experience with each bite. Jin Deui is a popular dim sum dessert enjoyed for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Fried Taro Dumplings (Wu Gok): Wu Gok are crispy taro dumplings filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, and seasoning, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The taro exterior is crispy and golden, while the filling is savory and flavorful, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Wu Gok is a popular dim sum dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun): Cheung Fun are delicate rice noodle rolls filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, beef, or barbecue pork, then drenched in a savory soy sauce or sweet hoisin sauce. These silky smooth rolls are steamed to perfection, resulting in a tender and translucent texture that melts in your mouth. Cheung Fun is often enjoyed as a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs well with other dim sum delicacies.

These diverse dim sum options showcase the breadth and depth of Hong Kong's culinary offerings, providing a tantalizing array of flavors, textures, and aromas to delight the palate. Whether you're a seasoned dim sum enthusiast or a curious culinary explorer, venturing beyond the dumplings promises to be a delicious and rewarding journey into the heart of Hong Kong's vibrant food culture.

Tea Culture: The Perfect Pairing for Dim Sum

Tea culture is an integral part of the dim sum dining experience in Hong Kong, adding depth, complexity, and tradition to each meal. As you embark on your culinary journey through Hong Kong's vibrant dim sum scene, here's how tea enhances and complements the flavors of your dim sum dishes:

Variety of Tea Selection: Traditional teahouses and dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong offer an extensive selection of teas, ranging from classic varieties to more exotic blends. Some popular choices include Jasmine tea, Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy), Pu'erh tea, and Oolong tea. Each type of tea has its own unique flavor profile, aroma, and health benefits, allowing diners to explore and appreciate the diverse world of Chinese tea.
Cleansing the Palate: Tea serves as a palate cleanser between bites of dim sum, refreshing the taste buds and preparing them for the next delicious morsel. Sipping on hot tea helps to cleanse the palate of residual oils and flavors, ensuring that each dim sum dish is savored to its fullest extent.
Balancing Rich Flavors: Dim sum dishes can range from savory to sweet, with a variety of textures and seasonings. Tea acts as a palate cleanser and helps to balance the rich and savory flavors of dim sum, cutting through the richness of fried and fatty dishes with its cleansing properties. The subtle bitterness of tea enhances the flavors of dim sum, allowing diners to appreciate the delicate nuances of each dish.
Aromatic Experience: Tea drinking is as much about aroma as it is about taste. The aroma of freshly brewed tea enhances the dining experience, stimulating the senses and heightening the overall enjoyment of dim sum. The fragrant steam rising from a teapot adds to the ambiance of the dining table, creating a sense of tranquility and relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle of the dim sum restaurant.
Cultural Significance: Tea drinking is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and traditions, symbolizing hospitality, respect, and harmony. Sharing a pot of tea with friends and family during dim sum gatherings fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection, as diners bond over shared experiences and culinary delights. The ritual of pouring and serving tea reflects the values of generosity and attentiveness, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at the dining table.
Health Benefits: Chinese tea is renowned for its numerous health benefits, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote overall well-being and vitality. Green tea, in particular, is known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, making it a popular choice among health-conscious diners looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence during their dim sum meal.

In summary, tea culture adds depth, tradition, and sensory pleasure to the dim sum dining experience in Hong Kong. From its cleansing properties to its aromatic nuances and cultural significance, tea serves as the perfect accompaniment to dim sum, enhancing the flavors, textures, and camaraderie of this cherished culinary tradition.

Insider Tips: Navigating the Dim Sum Experience like a Pro

Navigating the dim sum experience like a pro involves understanding the nuances of this beloved culinary tradition and making informed choices to enhance your dining experience. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your dim sum adventure in Hong Kong:

Arrive Early: Dim sum is typically served during brunch hours, from late morning to early afternoon. To avoid long waits and crowded dining rooms, consider arriving early to popular dim sum restaurants or making reservations in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
Explore Diverse Menus: Don't limit yourself to familiar dim sum dishes. Explore the diverse menu offerings and be open to trying new and adventurous flavors. Ask your server for recommendations or look for chef's specials and seasonal specialties to discover hidden gems and culinary delights.
Share and Sample: Dim sum is meant to be enjoyed family-style, with dishes shared among diners. Embrace the communal dining experience by ordering a variety of dishes to share with your dining companions. Sampling small portions of different dishes allows you to taste a wide range of flavors and textures and ensures a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Mindful Pairings: Pay attention to the order in which dishes are served, as the sequence can affect the overall dining experience. Start with lighter and milder dishes, such as steamed dumplings and rice rolls, before moving on to richer and heartier options like fried and baked dim sum. Pair dishes with complementary teas to enhance flavors and cleanse the palate between bites.
Watch for Freshness: Quality and freshness are paramount when it comes to dim sum. Look for restaurants that prepare dim sum to order or display freshly steamed and fried items on carts or trays. Avoid dishes that appear overly greasy, soggy, or reheated, as they may not meet the standards of quality and authenticity.
Respect Dim Sum Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with dim sum etiquette to navigate the dining experience with grace and respect. Use serving utensils provided to transfer dim sum from communal plates to your own dish, and avoid reaching across the table or using chopsticks to pick up food directly from shared dishes. Be mindful of others' preferences and dietary restrictions when ordering and sharing dishes.
Budget Wisely: Dim sum can range from affordable street food stalls to upscale restaurants with luxurious settings. Set a budget that aligns with your preferences and expectations, and choose dining venues that offer value for money without compromising on quality or authenticity.
Enjoy the Atmosphere: Dim sum dining is not just about the food; it's also about the ambiance and atmosphere of the restaurant. Take time to appreciate the bustling energy, lively chatter, and aromatic scents that fill the air, immersing yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Hong Kong.

By following these insider tips, you can navigate the dim sum experience like a pro and create memorable dining memories that celebrate the rich flavors, traditions, and hospitality of Hong Kong's renowned culinary scene.

Exploring Beyond Dim Sum: Other Culinary Delights in Hong Kong

While dim sum is undoubtedly a highlight of Hong Kong's culinary scene, the city offers a myriad of other culinary delights waiting to be explored. Here are some recommendations for venturing beyond dim sum and discovering the diverse flavors of Hong Kong:

Roast Meats: Hong Kong is renowned for its succulent roast meats, including crispy-skinned roast duck, tender char siu (barbecue pork), and flavorful roast goose. Head to local eateries and roast meat shops, known as "siu mei" joints, to savor these mouthwatering specialties served with steamed rice or noodles.
Seafood Markets: Explore bustling seafood markets such as Sai Kung or Aberdeen to experience the freshest seafood offerings Hong Kong has to offer. Choose live seafood from tanks and have it cooked to your preference at nearby restaurants, where you can enjoy dishes like steamed fish, stir-fried clams, and chili crab.
Street Food: Dive into the vibrant street food scene of Hong Kong and sample an array of delicious snacks and bites from street stalls and dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls). From egg waffles and fish balls to stinky tofu and curry fish balls, street food offers a diverse range of flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds.
Noodle Shops: Slurp your way through Hong Kong's noodle shops, where you can indulge in comforting bowls of wonton noodles, beef brisket noodles, and cart noodles with your choice of toppings and condiments. These humble eateries offer a taste of Hong Kong's culinary heritage and are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Dessert Cafes: Treat yourself to Hong Kong's decadent dessert cafes, where you can indulge in sweet treats like mango pomelo sago, egg custard tarts, and silky tofu pudding. Dessert cafes offer a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing you to satisfy your sweet tooth in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Cha Chaan Tengs: Experience the unique charm of Hong Kong's cha chaan tengs, or traditional tea restaurants, which serve a fusion of Western and Cantonese dishes. Sample classic cha chaan teng fare such as pineapple bun with butter, Hong Kong-style French toast, and silky milk tea for a taste of local comfort food.
Night Markets: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Hong Kong's night markets, such as Temple Street Night Market and Ladies' Market in Mong Kok. Browse through stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs, and be sure to sample street snacks and local specialties along the way.
Michelin-starred Dining: For a gourmet experience, dine at one of Hong Kong's Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can indulge in exquisite Cantonese cuisine, innovative fusion dishes, and international flavors crafted by world-renowned chefs. From fine dining establishments to hidden gems, Michelin-starred dining offers a culinary journey unlike any other.

Exploring beyond dim sum allows you to delve into the rich tapestry of flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions that make Hong Kong's food scene so vibrant and diverse. Whether you're sampling street food in bustling markets or savoring Michelin-starred cuisine in elegant dining rooms, each culinary adventure promises to be a feast for the senses and a celebration of Hong Kong's gastronomic heritage.

Bringing the Experience Home: Recipes to Recreate Authentic Dim Sum":

While enjoying dim sum in Hong Kong is an unforgettable experience, you can also recreate the magic of dim sum at home by preparing authentic recipes inspired by traditional Cantonese cuisine. Here are some popular dim sum recipes that you can try in your own kitchen:

Char Siu Bao (Barbecue Pork Buns): These fluffy steamed buns filled with savory barbecue pork are a dim sum favorite. To make Char Siu Bao at home, prepare a tender barbecue pork filling seasoned with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and other aromatic ingredients. Encase the filling in soft, pillowy dough, then steam until the buns are puffy and fragrant. Serve warm for a taste of authentic dim sum goodness.
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): Har Gow are delicate shrimp dumplings wrapped in a translucent, chewy wrapper. To make Har Gow, prepare a flavorful shrimp filling seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Encase the filling in a thin, translucent wrapper made from a mixture of wheat starch and tapioca starch, then steam until the dumplings are tender and juicy. Serve with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Siu Mai (Pork Dumplings): Siu Mai are open-faced pork dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and seasonings. To make Siu Mai, prepare a pork and shrimp filling flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices. Mold the filling onto a round, open-faced wrapper made from wheat flour, then steam until the dumplings are cooked through and tender. Garnish with a sprinkle of fish roe or diced carrots for a pop of color and flavor.
Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): Cheung Fun are silky smooth rice noodle rolls filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, beef, or barbecue pork. To make Cheung Fun, prepare a thin, crepe-like batter made from rice flour and water, then steam until set. Fill the cooked rice noodle sheets with your choice of ingredients, then roll them up and steam briefly until heated through. Serve with a drizzle of soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a simple yet satisfying dim sum treat.
Egg Custard Tarts (Dan Tat): Egg Custard Tarts are buttery pastries filled with a smooth and creamy egg custard. To make Egg Custard Tarts, prepare a flaky pastry dough made from flour, butter, and sugar, then line tart molds with the dough. Fill the molds with a rich and velvety custard mixture made from eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, then bake until the tarts are golden and set. Serve warm or at room temperature for a decadent dessert or snack.

By recreating these authentic dim sum recipes at home, you can experience the flavors, aromas, and textures of Hong Kong's vibrant culinary scene in your own kitchen. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to customize the recipes to your taste preferences, and enjoy the satisfaction of mastering the art of homemade dim sum.

Bringing the Experience Home: Recipes to Recreate Authentic Dim Sum

Char Siu Bao (Barbecue Pork Buns): These fluffy steamed buns filled with savory barbecue pork are a dim sum favorite. To make Char Siu Bao at home, prepare a tender barbecue pork filling seasoned with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and other aromatic ingredients. Encase the filling in soft, pillowy dough, then steam until the buns are puffy and fragrant. Serve warm for a taste of authentic dim sum goodness.
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): Har Gow are delicate shrimp dumplings wrapped in a translucent, chewy wrapper. To make Har Gow, prepare a flavorful shrimp filling seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Encase the filling in a thin, translucent wrapper made from a mixture of wheat starch and tapioca starch, then steam until the dumplings are tender and juicy. Serve with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Siu Mai (Pork Dumplings): Siu Mai are open-faced pork dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and seasonings. To make Siu Mai, prepare a pork and shrimp filling flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices. Mold the filling onto a round, open-faced wrapper made from wheat flour, then steam until the dumplings are cooked through and tender. Garnish with a sprinkle of fish roe or diced carrots for a pop of color and flavor.
Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): Cheung Fun are silky smooth rice noodle rolls filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, beef, or barbecue pork. To make Cheung Fun, prepare a thin, crepe-like batter made from rice flour and water, then steam until set. Fill the cooked rice noodle sheets with your choice of ingredients, then roll them up and steam briefly until heated through. Serve with a drizzle of soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a simple yet satisfying dim sum treat.
Egg Custard Tarts (Dan Tat): Egg Custard Tarts are buttery pastries filled with a smooth and creamy egg custard. To make Egg Custard Tarts, prepare a flaky pastry dough made from flour, butter, and sugar, then line tart molds with the dough. Fill the molds with a rich and velvety custard mixture made from eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, then bake until the tarts are golden and set. Serve warm or at room temperature for a decadent dessert or snack.

Liam Johnson