Cantonese
Siu mai
烧卖
Siu mai · Cantonese name
Open-topped dumplings, a familiar starting point for a Cantonese dim sum meal.
Regional starting pointCantonese
On the menuDumplings
Typical heatMild
Flavor & textureSavory · Juicy · Tender
Get to know the dish
The Cantonese dim sum version of siu mai often combines pork and shrimp inside a thin wrapper. Its open top makes it easy to distinguish from a closed dumpling. A small basket is ideal for sharing alongside dishes with different textures.
What to look for
A juicy filling held in a tender wrapper. The small garnish on top varies and is not a reliable guide to the ingredients inside.
Every kitchen has its version
The related name shaomai appears across China, including versions with sticky rice. Ask which style the menu means.
Sources & further reading
Background and preparation references. Our descriptions are editorial summaries, not restaurant reviews.
