Spicy Chilli Oil Dim Sum
Dim sum, a beloved culinary tradition, has a rich history deeply rooted in Chinese culture. The term "dim sum" means "touch the heart" in Cantonese, reflecting its original purpose as a light snack to accompany tea rather than a main meal.
The origins of dim sum date back to ancient China, specifically to the Silk Road era during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). As merchants and travellers journeyed along the Silk Road, teahouses began to spring up along the route to provide a place for these weary travellers to rest and refresh. Initially, these teahouses only served tea, but over time, they started offering small bites to accompany the beverages, giving birth to the concept of dim sum.
The practice of enjoying dim sum, known as "yum cha" or "drinking tea," became especially popular in the Guangdong province, particularly in Guangzhou (Canton), from where it spread to Hong Kong and other parts of China. Cantonese dim sum became renowned for its variety, creativity, and delicacy, featuring an array of bite-sized dishes, including dumplings, buns, rolls, and other savoury and sweet treats.
And when coated in a spicy chilli oil, it creates an exciting dish that combines the delicate textures of dim sum with a bold and spicy sauce. The dim sum is complemented by a vibrant and spicy chilli oil sauce, made with garlic, chilli oil, sesame oil, light and dark soy sauce and rice vinegar. This sauce brings a depth of flavour and a pleasant heat that enhances the natural flavours of the dim sum. The garlic in the sauce adds a robust, aromatic quality, while the chilli oil provides a fiery kick. Sesame oil introduces a nutty richness, and the combination of light and dark soy sauces adds a balance of salty and slightly sweet notes. Rice vinegar contributes a tangy acidity that rounds out the sauce, making it complex and delightful.
The result is a dish that is both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and a lot of flavour in their meals.
Whether served as a starter or a main course, spicy chilli oil dim sum is sure to impress and satisfy.
Cook dim sum of your choice in salted water for a few minutes until cooked.
Stir together minced garlic, chilli and sesame oil, light and dark soy sauce and rice vinegar, then simmer it over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
Toss in the dim sum, coat in the sauce and serve.
Spicy Chilli Oil Dim Sum
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook dim sum of your choice in salted water for 3-4 minutes until cooked.
- Stir together minced garlic, chilli and sesame oil, light and dark soy sauce and rice vinegar, then simmer it over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Toss in the dim sum, coat in the sauce and serve.
