If you’ve ever bitten into a tender dumpling and been surprised by a warm burst of rich broth, then you’ve likely tasted the magic of xiaolongbao, or Chinese soup dumplings. Originating from Shanghai, these bao soup dumplings are a beloved delicacy known for their thin skin, savory filling, and flavorful soup encased inside.
Whether you're a home cook looking to challenge yourself or simply curious about this dish, here's your full guide to understanding, making, and enjoying soup dumplings.
Brandi
What Are Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao)?
Soup dumplings are a type of steamed Chinese dumpling filled with seasoned meat (usually pork or pork-and-crab) and gelatinized broth that melts into soup when steamed. Though they share the name “dumpling” with dishes like chicken and dumpling soup, xiaolongbao are quite different — they’re small, delicate, and require careful folding to hold the liquid inside.
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How to Make Soup Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Dumpling dough: a simple mixture of flour and water
- Pork or pork-crab filling: finely minced, seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil
- Soup gelatin: made from rich pork or chicken stock and set with gelatin
- Soup dumpling sauce: typically a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger
Tip: You can experiment with chicken for a lighter version or use pre-made wrappers if you're short on time.
Key Steps for Homemade Xiaolongbao
- Make the soup gelatin: Simmer a rich bone broth, season, add gelatin, and chill until firm. Cut into cubes.
- Prepare the filling: Mix ground pork with seasoning, then fold in the chilled soup gelatin cubes.
- Roll and fill the wrappers: Roll dough into thin rounds, add a spoonful of filling, and pleat carefully.
- Steam and serve: Steam in a bamboo basket lined with cabbage or parchment for 8–10 minutes.
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How to Eat Soup Dumplings
Eating xiaolongbao is a skill in itself! Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Gently pick up the dumpling with chopsticks, taking care not to tear the skin.
- Place it in a spoon and add a few drops of soup dumpling sauce.
- Bite a small hole in the side to slurp out the hot soup carefully.
- Then enjoy the rest of the dumpling!
Popular Variations of Soup Dumplings
Pork Soup Dumplings: The classic filling, juicy and flavorful.
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Spicy Soup Dumplings: Infused with chili oil or spicy broth for those who love heat.
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Chicken Soup Dumplings: A lighter alternative with a milder flavor.
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Tofu Soup Dumplings: A delicate, plant-based option with soft tofu and flavorful broth inside a tender wrapper.
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FAQ: Your Soup Dumpling Questions Answered
Are soup dumplings the same as bao?
Not exactly. Bao (like char siu bao) are usually larger and have a fluffy steamed bun exterior. Xiaolongbao are smaller, thinner, and filled with broth.
Can I make soup dumplings without gelatin?
Technically yes, but gelatin is what creates the signature soup inside when steamed. It's worth the effort!
Can I freeze soup dumplings?
Absolutely! Place uncooked dumplings on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a container. Steam from frozen for best results.
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Soup dumplings may look delicate, but with the right ingredients and techniques, they’re very achievable at home. Whether you’re crafting a batch of traditional pork xiaolongbao or exploring new variations, the results are always rewarding — delicious, heartwarming, and full of flavor.