How to Say Dim Sum in Vietnamese: A Guide on Different Ways to Express this Tasty Cuisine

Dim sum, the delicious traditional Chinese cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide. With its wide variety of bite-sized dishes served in bamboo steamers and intricate flavors, dim sum has become a favorite among food enthusiasts. If you are looking to explore this delectable cuisine in Vietnam or simply want to know how to express your love for dim sum in Vietnamese, this comprehensive guide is here to help you. We will cover the formal and informal ways, as well as regional variations of how to say “dim sum” in Vietnamese.

Formal Expressions for Dim Sum in Vietnamese

When it comes to expressing dim sum in a formal manner, there are a few options in Vietnamese. These terms are commonly used in formal settings, such as restaurants or when conversing with elders. Let’s dive into the formal expressions:

1. Dim Sum: “Dim Sum” itself is often used in formal settings as it is a widely recognized term. Vietnamese people usually pronounce it as “Dim Sum” but with a slight Vietnamese accent.
2. Chén Cơm Dim Sum: This expression literally translates to “a bowl of dim sum.” It emphasizes the fact that dim sum is served in small portions and encourages communal dining, as it is customary to share these tasty treats with friends and family.
3. Thức Ăn Nhỏ Trung Quốc: Another formal term that can be used to refer to dim sum is “Thức Ăn Nhỏ Trung Quốc,” which means “Chinese small food” in English. While this term is broader and not specific to dim sum only, it can be accurately used when ordering dim sum in a formal setting.

Informal Expressions for Dim Sum in Vietnamese

On the informal side, Vietnamese people often utilize colloquial expressions to refer to dim sum when talking with friends or peers. Here are some common informal expressions:

1. Món Nhỏ Trung Quốc: This term is often used in casual conversations and translates to “Chinese small dishes.” Vietnamese people use this expression to refer to dim sum’s bite-sized nature and to highlight its Chinese origins.
2. Cơm Vặt Trung Quốc or Cơm Vặt Hoa: In Vietnamese cuisine, “Cơm Vặt” generally refers to snacks or street food. When combined with “Trung Quốc” (China) or “Hoa” (Chinese), it becomes an informal expression for dim sum, indicating that it is a popular food enjoyed as a snack.
3. Thức Ăn Hấp Hẻo: While not commonly used, this term can pop up in conversations among friends who enjoy wordplay. “Hấp Hẻo” is a combination of the Vietnamese word for “steamed” (Hấp) and a humorous rhyme for “háo” which means “greedy.” It playfully suggests that dim sum is for those who are greedy for delicious food.

Regional Variations

Vietnam has diverse regional cuisines, and there might be some variations in how dim sum is referred to across different regions. However, it is worth noting that the terms mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout Vietnam. Still, here are a few region-specific variations:

Sài Gòn (Ho Chi Minh City)
In Ho Chi Minh City, dim sum is commonly referred to as “Lẩu Hấp,” meaning “steamed hotpot.” This regional variation highlights the abundance of steamers filled with delicious treats, resembling a hotpot filled with different ingredients.

Đà Lạt
In the cool mountainous city of Đà Lạt, dim sum is occasionally referred to as “Cơm Ngon Phố Núi.” This translation emphasizes the unique flavors of dim sum while paying homage to the city’s picturesque mountains and vibrant food scene.

Tips and Examples

Here are some tips and examples to enhance your understanding of how to say “dim sum” in Vietnamese:

• Practice the pronunciation of these Vietnamese terms to ensure accurate communication.
• When ordering dim sum, you can confidently say, “Cho tôi một đĩa dim sum” (meaning “Please give me a plate of dim sum”).
• If you want to try a variety of dim sum dishes, say “Tôi muốn thử nhiều món dim sum” (meaning “I want to try many dim sum dishes”) to indicate your interest in exploring different options.
• When complimenting the taste, you can say “Dim sum này rất thơm ngon” (meaning “This dim sum is very delicious”).

Remember, exploring culinary delights in different languages adds a wonderful dimension to your overall experience. Embrace the local culture, savor the flavors, and enjoy the magic of dim sum with these Vietnamese expressions!

In conclusion, this guide has provided various formal and informal expressions for “dim sum” in Vietnamese. Whether you’re ordering in a restaurant, engaging in casual conversations, or exploring regional variations, you now have the knowledge to navigate the Vietnamese language when it comes to this delightful cuisine. So, go ahead, indulge in dim sum, and savor the rich flavors Vietnam has to offer!