Breakfast is one of our favorite meals because there’s almost no limit to what you can eat! So why not start your day with authentic Chinese food?

Dim Sum is a traditional Cantonese meal enjoyed during breakfast or brunch at most Chinese restaurants. It includes dumplings, rolls, and buns with various flavors, textures, and delicious ingredients. Read on for 12 of the best Chinese breakfast ideas to try and enjoy at home. 

Chinese Steamed Pork Buns

This traditional dim sum consists of a juicy pork filling. Even kids and picky eaters can’t resist these flavorful steamed buns.

Chinese Chive Pancakes

Fragrant sprigs of fresh chives make these savory pancakes delicious. Enjoy with a drizzle of soy sauce for a healthy vegetarian breakfast. 

Congee

This comforting Chinese rice porridge is a welcome addition to any dim sum platter. Pair this traditional side dish with stir-fried vegetables or braised meats.

Braised Pork Feet

In China, pig trotters are considered one of the most delicious cuts of pork. This meaty dim sum is slow cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce and garnished with green onions.

Chinese BBQ Pork Buns (Cha Siu Bao)

These soft, pillowy buns are stuffed with a flavorful BBQ pork filling. With the correct technique, it’s easy to make Char Siu Bao dumplings from scratch.

Pan Fried Potstickers

These crispy, savory dumplings are a favorite menu item at Chinese restaurants. Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers to be fried the next time you have a potsticker craving.

Hong Kong-Style Egg Tart

These egg tarts feature a sweet, custard filling and a flaky pastry crust. This authentic recipe is inspired by bakeries in Hong Kong. 

Shumai (Siu Mai)

These steamed dumplings are filled with a tasty combination of juicy pork and shrimp. Learn the proper technique for folding authentic Chinese Siu Mai with this simple recipe.

Cheong Fun (Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls)

Homemade Chinese rice noodle balls make an irresistible appetizer for brunch. Here are five delicious ways to make Cheong Fun using simple ingredients you already have at home.

Shanghai Xiao Long Bao

These famous Chinese steamed dumplings are a great way to start Dim Sum. Learn the technique for making authentic Xiao Long Bao at home.

Cantonese Sticky Rice Dumplings (Zongzi)

If you like Mexican tamales, you’re sure to enjoy Chinese zongzi. These sticky rice dumplings can be savory or sweet, depending on your preferences.

Chicken and Cabbage Dim Sum

This clever recipe uses cabbage leaves in place of traditional dumpling wrappers. The result is a delicious, low-carb dim sum.