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- By Iram Hussain
- Wed, 04 Dec 2024 11:22 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The eternal confusion - momos, dumplings or dim sums? We've all been there, scanning restaurant menus, unsure of what to order. For many of us, the terms "momos", "dumplings" and "dim sum" are interchangeable, evoking memories of steaming hot, savoury delights from our childhood. As we've grown up eating "momos", the distinction between these terms has become increasingly blurred. To save you from this culinary conundrum, we're here to guide you through the nuances of these beloved dishes, so you can order with confidence next time you're at a restaurant. Let's understand each variety broadly.
Difference Between Momos, Dumplings And Dim Sums
Momos
Momos are traditional Tibetan and Nepalese dumplings, typically filled with spiced meat or vegetables. Unlike dim sum which encompasses a broad range of Chinese steamed dishes, momos are specifically Tibetan in origin. While dumplings are a generic term for wrapped dough pockets, momos are distinct in their use of a thin, wheat-flour wrapper and unique fillings, setting them apart from other Asian dumplings. Unlike dim sums and dumplings, momos have a thick outer covering.
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Know the difference between momos, dumplings and dim sums (Image Credits: Canva)
Dim Sums
Dim sums are bite-sized Cantonese delicacies, literally translating to "touch the heart". Unlike momos and dumplings, dim sums can be made with various starches, resulting in a translucent appearance. Dim sums boast an incredible diversity of ingredients and forms, spanning from savoury delights like lotus-leaf-wrapped sticky rice to sweet treats like egg tarts. Fillings can vary greatly, making each dim sum a unique culinary experience.
Dumplings
Dumplings are a universal food phenomenon, encompassing a wide range of dough-wrapped delights. Unlike momos which are typically Tibetan and Nepalese and dim sums which are Cantonese, dumplings are a broader category. They can be steamed, fried or boiled and come in various sizes and shapes. Fillings range from meat and vegetables to fish and its covering is usually made from wheat flour, salt and water.