Cultural discovery through Dim Sum

Dim Sum opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The deeply savoury and sweet flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. communal sharing at the table is culturally central. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that Shaoxing wine is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a street stall in Chengdu setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. Tsingtao beer completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.