Ever wanted to sample all of your favorite Cantonese appetizers in one sitting? Dim Sum presents a tantalizing array of dumplings, rolls and buns for you to eat to your heart’s content. We’ve rounded up 20 Best Chinese Dim Sum recipes and now you can recreate some of your favorites at home.

What is Dim Sum?

It is a traditional Cantonese meal consisting of many small plates with bite-sized portions of tasty Cantonese dishes. In Chinese restaurants in the United States, dim sum is usually eaten “family style” whereby a large group passes around the plates, taking a little bit of everything. The term “dim sum” can be used to refer to each individual menu item, or to the items collectively.

Types of Dim Sum

There are over 1000 dim sum dishes in existence. A typical menu includes various types of dumplings, buns, rolls and balls, as well as bite-sized pieces of meat. Steamed dumplings like Xiao Long Bao can be filled with your choice of meat or veggies, with pork, shrimp and chicken being the most popular options.

Authentic Popular Chinese Dim Sum Dishes

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.

Chicken Feet

Considered a Chinese delicacy, these chicken feet are just like the ones you’d find in your favorite Chinese restaurant. With this recipe, they’re tender, juicy and full of flavor.

Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)

This popular Cantonese appetizer is simply irresistible. Here’s a simple, yet authentic recipe for Chinese Har Gow shrimp dumplings.

Chinese BBQ Pork Buns (Cha Siu Bao)

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

Vegetarian Dim Sum

Sesame Balls

This meatless treat is crispy on the outside with a soft, chewy middle. You won’t be able to resist these deep fried sweet-and-savory balls.

Crispy Vegetarian Spring Rolls

These super crispy vegetable spring rolls are incredibly easy to make. Serve with a honey garlic dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing dim sum.

Chinese Chive Pancakes

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

Hongkong Style Egg Tart

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

Steamed Dim Sum

Chinese Steamed Pork Buns

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

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.

Cheong Fun (Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls)

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

Steamed Beef Short Ribs

If you want more variety for dim sum, give this recipe a try. Pieces of beef ribs are marinated overnight for steaming, making them extra flavorful and tender.

Other Dim Sum Recipes

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.

Turnip Cake

Don’t let its simple appearance fool you. Turnip cake is packed with umami flavor and an addictively crispy texture. Enjoy piping hot or serve at room temperature.

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.

Wonton Noodle Soup

When you’re having takeout cravings, close the UberEats app and make your very own Chinese wonton soup. You won’t believe how easy it is to make this comforting dim sum 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, so they’re ready to be fried the next time you have a potsticker craving.

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 lieu of traditional dumpling wrappers. The result is a delicious, low carb dim sum.

Seafood Dim Sum

Satisfy your seafood cravings with this simple keto-friendly dim sum. This recipe features a delicious medley of fish, shrimp and mussels.