The Dying Art of Serving Dim Sum

Ingredients

• 1 cup Rice Flour (fine, sifted)
• 2 tablespoons Tapioca Starch (helps give the roll elasticity)
• 1 cup Water (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (fine sea salt)
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (for batter and greasing steamer)
• 4 pieces Youtiao (Chinese Fried Dough Stick) (store‑bought or homemade, about 8‑inch length each)
• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (light soy sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (to drizzle on sauce)
• 2 tablespoons Scallions (thinly sliced, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice Flour Batter

   In a mixing bowl, whisk together rice flour, tapioca starch, salt, and 1 cup water until smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; let the batter rest for 5 minutes.

   Time: PT10M

2. Prepare the Youtiao Filling

   If using frozen youtiao, thaw according to package directions. Cut each piece in half lengthwise to create two thin strips that will fit inside the rice roll.

   Time: PT5M

3. Set Up the Steamer

   Line the steamer basket with parchment paper cut to fit. Lightly brush the paper with oil to prevent sticking.

   Time: PT3M

4. Steam the Rice Rolls

   Bring water in the steamer pot to a rolling boil. Pour a thin layer (≈¼ cup) of batter onto the parchment, spreading quickly with a spatula to a 4‑inch circle. Place a strip of youtiao in the center, then cover with another thin layer of batter (≈¼ cup). Steam for 4‑5 minutes until the surface is translucent and the roll pulls away easily from the paper.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 100°C

5. Cool and Slice

   Remove the steamed roll with the parchment, place on a cutting board, and let cool for 1 minute. Slice diagonally into 2‑inch pieces.

   Time: PT2M

6. Make the Dipping Sauce

   In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce and sesame oil; warm over low heat for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in sliced scallions.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: Low heat

7. Serve

   Arrange the sliced rolls on a serving plate, drizzle with the warm soy‑sesame sauce, and garnish with extra scallions. Serve immediately while the rolls are warm and the youtiao remains slightly crisp.

   Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

210

Protein

5 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

6 g

Fiber

1 g