Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal that consists of a variety of small dishes served on small plates or in bamboo baskets. Dim sum dishes range from savory to sweet and can be enjoyed any time of the day. Often overlooked but equally delicious is the sweet and tantalizing array of dim sum desserts.
Dim sum desserts have become famous the world over and are often the perfect way to end a meal. They are small in size and can be easily shared, making them perfect for a group or family style dining experience. These delicate treats are often flavored with traditional Chinese ingredients such as red bean, lotus seed paste, and sesame, and offer a unique twist to classic desserts. In this article, we explore the world of dim sum desserts and learn about some of the most popular treats.
The History of Dim Sum Desserts
Dim sum desserts are traditional Chinese sweet treats that have been an integral part of the dim sum culture for centuries. The dim sum tradition dates back to the Tang Dynasty when tea houses were first established as a place for travelers to rest and enjoy a cup of tea. Over time, the tea houses introduced small bite-sized dishes, including sweets, to accompany the tea. These small portions of delicacies were named as ‘dim sum,’ meaning ‘to touch the heart.’
In the early days, dim sum desserts were mainly made with rice flour, wheat flour, and sugar. However, over time, the ingredients and preparation techniques of dim sum desserts have evolved, with a wide range of desserts being added to the menu. Today, these delicious desserts are enjoyed around the world in traditional dim sum restaurants and have become an essential part of Chinese culinary heritage.
Types of Dim Sum Desserts
Dim sum desserts are an integral part of Chinese cuisine. These tiny treats range from spongy cakes to flaky pastries stuffed with sweet filling, and often come in colorful hues. The following are some of the most popular types of dim sum desserts:
1. Egg Tarts – These soft custard-filled tarts are a staple in dim sum restaurants, and their flaky shell makes them enticingly crumbly.
2. Sesame Balls – Also known as Jian Dui, these deep-fried sticky rice balls have a sweet filling and a crispy exterior coated with sesame seeds.
3. Mango Pudding – This silky-smooth dessert is a refreshing treat to finish off a heavy meal. It is typically made with sweet mango puree and cream.
4. Red Bean Paste Cake – This spongy cake is filled with sweetened red bean paste and is a common choice in dim sum menus.
5. Coconut Milk Pudding – This creamy dessert is made with coconut milk, gelatin, and sugar, giving it a rich and indulgent texture.
With a wide variety of options to choose from, dim sum desserts are a decadent way to experience the flavors of traditional Chinese sweets.
Popular Dim Sum Desserts in different parts of the world
Dim sum desserts have gained immense popularity over the years and are now enjoyed in different parts of the world. In Hong Kong, the egg tart is a must-have dim sum dessert. The tart consists of a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet and creamy custard, which makes for a perfect sweet ending to a dim sum meal.
In Malaysia and Singapore, durian pastries are a popular choice. Durian, known for its strong and pungent smell, is transformed into delectable pastries, such as durian puffs and durian pancakes. While it may not be to everyone’s liking, durian lovers swear by its unique and delicious taste. Other popular dim sum desserts enjoyed across the globe include mango pudding, sesame balls, and steamed red bean buns.
What are the ingredients used in Dim Sum desserts?
Dim Sum desserts are a traditional Chinese cuisine that is consumed after a hearty meal consisting of various dishes. These desserts are known for their unique flavors and textures, making them a popular treat among foodies. The ingredients used in making Dim Sum desserts vary, depending on the type of dessert. However, some common ingredients used in these desserts include glutinous rice, lotus paste, red bean paste, sweet potato, custard cream, and fruits such as mango and pineapple.
In addition to these ingredients, some Dim Sum desserts also incorporate seafood such as shrimp, crab, and fish. These seafood-based desserts are a unique addition to the Dim Sum table and are usually served in small portions. Overall, the ingredients used in Dim Sum desserts are highly flavorful and are complemented by Chinese tea, which is typically served alongside them.
How to make Dim Sum Desserts at home?
Making dim sum desserts at home can seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and tools, it’s not as difficult as it may seem. One of the most popular dim sum desserts is steamed egg custard tarts. To make these tarts, you will need tart shells, eggs, milk, and sugar. First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Mix the eggs, milk, and sugar together in a bowl until smooth. Spoon the mixture into the tart shells and bake them for around 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Another favorite dim sum dessert is sesame balls, which are filled with sweet red bean paste. To make these, you’ll need glutinous rice flour, red bean paste, sesame seeds, and oil for frying. Mix the glutinous rice flour with water to create a dough. Form small balls and flatten them, then place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each one. Close the edges of the dough around the filling and roll them in sesame seeds. Fry the balls in oil until they turn golden brown. These desserts are a perfect treat to enjoy at home with family or friends.
Tips for ordering Dim Sum Desserts at a restaurant
When ordering dim sum desserts at a Chinese restaurant, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a satisfying dining experience. First, ask the server for recommendations as they may have insider knowledge of the restaurant’s most popular or unique desserts. Additionally, it’s recommended to order a variety of desserts to sample and share with the table.
Another important factor to consider when ordering dim sum desserts is to pay attention to the texture and flavor profile of each dish. Some desserts may be lighter and more refreshing while others may be rich and decadent. It’s important to balance out the flavors and textures with multiple desserts to create a well-rounded dining experience. By following these tips, patrons can fully appreciate the delicious and diverse dessert offerings that dim sum has to offer.
The Health Benefits of Dim Sum Desserts
Dim sum desserts are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits. Firstly, these desserts are typically small in size, which means they contain fewer calories and can help with portion control. Secondly, many dim sum desserts are made with healthy ingredients such as fruit, beans, and nuts, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Moreover, some dim sum desserts are steamed or boiled instead of fried, which can decrease their fat content and make them a healthier option. For example, red bean paste buns, a popular dim sum dessert, are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. Steamed egg custard tarts, another favorite, contain less sugar and fewer calories than their baked counterparts. Overall, dim sum desserts can be a delicious and healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.
Conclusion
Dim sum desserts are an essential part of Chinese cuisine and culture. These bite-size sweet treats are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also known for their unique textures and flavors. From sweet egg tarts to sesame balls, dim sum desserts offer a wide range of delights for those with a sweet tooth.
Despite their popularity, dim sum desserts are still relatively unknown outside of the Chinese community. However, with the rise of global food trends and an increasing interest in Asian cuisine, it is only a matter of time before these delectable desserts become a household name. So, the next time you visit a dim sum restaurant, don’t forget to try out their desserts – you may just find your new favorite treat!