VIDEO: What is dim sum?

Dim sum: a vox pop

Is dim sum a form of dance? A sauce, perhaps? Nope, not even close. Or is it noodles? Or seafood? Getting warmer… When quizzed in our vox pop, it’s fair to say Londoners are pretty uncertain on what dim sum actually is. If there’s one thing that will clear up any culinary confusion when it comes to this delectable delicacy, it’s National Dim Sum Week.

This seven-day celebration of all things dim sum will not only raise awareness of this traditional Chinese foodie experience, but will demystify misconceptions surrounding it. The dim sum extravaganza, supported by Ken Hom OBE, will run from 30^th June to the 6^th July 2018 and participating Chinatown London restaurants will be presenting tempting exclusive menus and tasty tasting sessions.

So what actually is dim sum? Dim sum is small but perfectly formed, snackable light bites. Literally translating to ‘touch the heart’ dim sum is intrinsic to China’s ancient tea house culture and served alongside an aromatic brew at lunchtime. You may be familiar with those iconic bamboo steamers that house neatly wrapped dumplings from har gau prawn dumplings to char siu bao fluffy pork buns. What’s the best thing about dim sum? The fact you can order as many different servings of these dainty morsels as you like. Think; crispy spring rolls, tender turnip cake, crunchy sesame balls and sweet mango pudding.

Take your taste buds on a gastronomic journey by visiting Chinatown London this National Dim Sum Week. Don’t forget to share your dim sum adventures with us using the #DoYouDimSum hashtag.

National Dim Sum Week, 30^th June–6^th July 2018 at participating restaurants, click here for more information and full details.