Top Chinese Dishes for Brunch You Need to Try

Top Chinese Dishes for Brunch: A Delicious Guide

When it comes to brunch, there’s no reason to limit yourself to traditional Western options. As someone who loves exploring diverse flavors, I’ve found that Chinese cuisine offers an incredible range of dishes that can elevate any brunch experience. From the comforting to the adventurous, Chinese dishes are perfect for both casual and more refined brunch gatherings. In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the top Chinese dishes that are perfect for brunch, each offering a unique taste of the culture and culinary history behind them.

1. Dim Sum: The Quintessential Chinese Brunch Dish

Dim sum is undoubtedly one of the most popular Chinese dishes for brunch. Originally from the Cantonese region, dim sum refers to a variety of small, bite-sized portions typically served in steamer baskets or on small plates. These dishes are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for brunch gatherings. Whether you’re at a traditional Chinese tea house or enjoying them at home, dim sum includes a variety of items like dumplings, buns, spring rolls, and more.

One of my favorites is the siu mai (steamed pork dumplings), which offers a savory bite with a tender texture. For those who enjoy something a bit sweeter, char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) are a must-try. These little buns are filled with a deliciously sweet and savory pork filling, encased in a fluffy, soft dough.

Dim sum is also versatile in that it can be paired with a cup of Chinese tea, which complements the flavors beautifully. The tradition of dim sum is meant to be a relaxed, social experience, making it perfect for a brunch setting with friends and family.

2. Congee: A Warm and Comforting Rice Porridge

If you’re looking for a hearty and warming dish for brunch, congee is the answer. Congee is a type of rice porridge that’s enjoyed across China, particularly for breakfast or brunch. It’s a versatile dish, as it can be served plain or with various toppings, making it perfect for any palate.

Congee is often served with pickled vegetables, salted eggs, or fried dough sticks. But the true beauty of this dish lies in the way it can be customized. For example, century eggs (preserved eggs) and shredded pork are common toppings, offering a mix of savory flavors. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can opt for tofu and mushrooms as your toppings.

Not only is congee easy to digest, but it’s also incredibly comforting. It’s a dish I often turn to when I need something warm and soothing, and it’s a great way to start the day with a feeling of satisfaction.

3. Scallion Pancakes: A Crispy and Flavorful Snack

If you’re looking for something that’s both crispy and savory, scallion pancakes (cong you bing) are a fantastic choice. These crispy, flaky pancakes are made from dough mixed with finely chopped scallions, then pan-fried to perfection. The result is a wonderfully crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. The savory flavor of the scallions adds an extra layer of depth to the pancake, making it a delicious snack for any meal, including brunch.

While scallion pancakes can be served on their own, I recommend pairing them with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. The sauce enhances the flavor, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy pancake and the tangy dipping sauce.

4. Egg Foo Young: A Chinese Omelette with a Twist

For a brunch dish that combines the comfort of eggs with the flair of Chinese flavors, egg foo young is a perfect choice. This Chinese-style omelette is typically filled with vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and bean sprouts, along with your choice of meat, such as shrimp, pork, or chicken. The omelette is then fried to a golden crisp and served with a savory gravy sauce.

Egg foo young is often served as a complete meal on its own, making it a great option for a filling brunch. The dish can be easily customized based on your preferences, and it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or proteins. It’s a versatile dish that combines the best elements of Chinese cooking—savory flavors, rich textures, and satisfying ingredients—into one delicious plate.

5. Chinese Steamed Buns: Soft, Fluffy, and Flavorful

Chinese steamed buns (baozi) are another popular dish that can be enjoyed for brunch. These buns are typically filled with a variety of ingredients, such as sweet or savory pork, vegetables, or even red bean paste for a dessert option. The dough is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, providing a perfect contrast to the savory fillings inside.

My personal favorite is the char siu bao, which is filled with sweet, savory barbecued pork. The combination of tender pork and the soft, slightly sweet bun is an irresistible treat that’s perfect for brunch. Additionally, these buns can be enjoyed alongside a hot cup of tea, enhancing the overall experience.

6. Chinese Noodles: A Light Yet Satisfying Option

If you're in the mood for something light yet satisfying, Chinese noodles are a great addition to any brunch. Noodles are an integral part of Chinese cuisine, and they come in many varieties. One of the most popular noodle dishes for brunch is chow mein, a stir-fried noodle dish with a mix of vegetables, meat, and savory seasonings.

Chow mein is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The noodles are cooked until crispy, with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots providing a burst of flavor and color. It’s a dish that’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, and it’s light enough to enjoy without feeling too heavy, making it ideal for brunch.

7. Sweet Treats: Chinese Dessert for Brunch

While savory dishes often steal the show in Chinese brunch menus, there are also plenty of delicious sweet treats to consider. Sesame balls (Jian Dui) are a popular Chinese dessert that’s perfect for brunch. These deep-fried, chewy balls are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in sesame seeds. The result is a satisfying combination of textures—from the crispy exterior to the chewy interior.

Another delightful treat is egg tarts (dan tat), a Cantonese pastry that features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a smooth custard. These little tarts are perfect for those with a sweet tooth and are a common sight at dim sum restaurants.

Whether you’re looking for a savory meal or a sweet ending to your brunch, these Chinese desserts provide the perfect balance of flavors and textures.