Guangzhou Private Tours by Janvi

Cantonese shaomai, usually called siu mai in Cantonese, is one of the familiar steamed dumplings served during dim sum.

Shaomai (烧卖 / 燒賣), better known internationally through its Cantonese pronunciation siu mai, is one of the classic steamed dumplings associated with Cantonese dim sum and yum cha.

Travelers visiting Guangzhou will commonly encounter siu mai in traditional teahouses alongside steamed buns, rice rolls, shrimp dumplings and other small dishes served with tea.

What Is Cantonese Siu Mai?

Cantonese siu mai is normally an open-topped steamed dumpling wrapped in a thin yellowish wrapper. A common filling combines seasoned pork with shrimp and finely chopped mushrooms, although recipes vary from restaurant to restaurant.

Rather than sealing the wrapper completely, the top remains open so that the filling can be seen. The dumplings are steamed and usually served hot in a small bamboo steamer.

Siu Mai and Guangzhou Yum Cha Culture

In Guangzhou, siu mai is best understood as part of the broader culture of yum cha — literally drinking tea while sharing a selection of small Cantonese dishes. Dim sum is therefore not simply one particular breakfast food; it is also a social way of eating.

A table may order several steamers and plates for everyone to share. Siu mai is particularly approachable for first-time visitors because its ingredients and texture are easy to understand while still representing a familiar part of traditional Cantonese teahouse dining.

Pork and Beef Siu Mai in Guangzhou

Pork-and-shrimp siu mai is the version most international travelers recognize, but Guangzhou's dim sum tradition also includes other variations. Beef siu mai can also be found in traditional Cantonese teahouses and offers a noticeably different texture and seasoning.

Is Siu Mai the Same Everywhere in China?

No. Different parts of China developed their own forms of shaomai with different wrappers, fillings and seasonings. Internationally, however, the Cantonese version became particularly well known through Cantonese restaurants and diaspora communities around the world.

Discover Guangzhou Food Beyond Dim Sum

Dim sum is only one part of Cantonese food culture. Guangzhou is also known for wonton noodles, roast meats, rice rolls, desserts and many everyday neighbourhood foods.

If food is one of the main reasons for your visit, our Guangzhou local food tour combines several Cantonese tastings with a walk through local streets and a historic market.