What is a dim sim?
A dim sim is an Australian takeaway snack inspired by Chinese dumplings. It is usually filled with minced pork or beef, cabbage and seasonings, wrapped in thin dough, and then steamed or deep-fried.
Dim sims are believed to have been created in Melbourne in the 1940s by William Wing Young, a Chinese Australian restaurateur. They were adapted from Chinese dumplings to suit Australian tastes.
Dim sims are larger and have thicker skins than traditional Chinese siu mai dumplings. They are often sold at fish and chip shops, milk bars and football grounds.
The South Melbourne Market dim sim
The South Melbourne Market dim sims are especially famous. Known as South Melbourne dim sims, they have been sold at the market since the 1940s and attract long lines.
In Victoria, dim sims are usually dipped in soy sauce. Some people call them dimmies.
Dim sims are also made by companies that sell frozen versions in supermarkets. They are a classic part of Australian takeaway food, along with potato cakes and chiko rolls. Their popularity reflects the long history of Chinese Australians.