The Art of Tea with Dim Sum: Best Pairings Explained
Dim sum is more than just dumplings and buns—it’s a cultural ritual where tea plays a starring role. In Cantonese tradition, “yum cha” literally means “drink tea,” and the act of sipping tea while enjoying small plates is just as important as the food itself.
If you’ve ever wondered which teas to pair with which dim sum dishes—or why you’re always served certain teas by default—this guide breaks down the most popular Chinese teas and the dishes they elevate best.
- Jasmine Tea: Light and Floral
Flavor Profile: Delicate, sweet, and aromatic with a smooth finish
Best With: Steamed dumplings like har gow, vegetable dumplings, shrimp rice noodle rolls
Jasmine tea is one of the most commonly served options at dim sum, especially for first-time guests. Its floral aroma gently complements the subtle flavors of seafood-based dishes and doesn’t overpower light ingredients.
Learn more about jasmine tea sourcing and brewing from Teatulia
- Pu-erh Tea: Earthy and Bold
Flavor Profile: Rich, fermented, slightly musty or woody
Best With: Pork buns, braised chicken feet, turnip cakes, fried taro dumplings
Pu-erh tea is prized for its digestive benefits and its ability to cut through greasy or heavy foods. This makes it a perfect match for richer dim sum dishes. Aged pu-erh varieties are often brought out for more seasoned diners or special occasions.
Explore pu-erh’s complexity at Born Tea
- Oolong Tea: Balanced and Fragrant
Flavor Profile: Smooth, slightly toasty, sometimes fruity or floral depending on the variety
Best With: Siu mai, lo mai gai (sticky rice in lotus leaf), pan-fried dumplings
Oolong sits between green and black tea, giving it the versatility to pair with a wide range of dim sum flavors. It balances the umami of pork-based dumplings while cleansing the palate between bites.
Check out oolong types and tasting notes via Born Tea
- Chrysanthemum Tea: Cooling and Caffeine-Free
Flavor Profile: Light, slightly sweet, and herbaceous
Best With: Fried dim sum, dessert buns, egg tarts
Caffeine-free and floral, chrysanthemum tea is often served for its cooling properties, which make it ideal after indulging in deep-fried or sweet dishes. Some restaurants also offer it blended with pu-erh for a balanced option.
- Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy): A Premium Oolong
Flavor Profile: Floral, roasted, buttery
Best With: Steamed buns, lotus seed paste desserts, and tofu skin rolls
One of the most revered Chinese oolongs, Tieguanyin delivers complex floral notes that complement both savory and sweet items. While not always offered at standard dim sum spots, it’s worth requesting if available.
Tea Pairing Tips for Dim Sum:
- Start with jasmine if you’re new to Chinese teas—it’s universally pleasant and pairs with nearly everything.
- Ask the server which teas they offer. Most restaurants default to pu-erh or jasmine unless otherwise specified.
- Don’t oversteep. Chinese teas are best brewed lightly and often refilled throughout the meal.
- Tap the table with two fingers when someone pours your tea—a classic gesture of gratitude.
Dim Sum Is Tea’s Perfect Companion
Drinking tea with dim sum isn’t just tradition—it’s science. Tea resets your palate, aids digestion, and adds nuance to every bite. Whether you’re sipping jasmine with shrimp dumplings or pairing pu-erh with pork buns, the right tea enhances the entire dining experience.
