Xiaolongbao, also known as soup dumplings, is a popular Chinese delicacy originating from Jiangsu province, particularly in Shanghai. These delicate dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth, making them a favorite among dim sum lovers. Xiaolongbao is traditionally served in a bamboo steamer, and mastering the art of making these dumplings at home is both challenging and rewarding.
Ingredients
To make Xiaolongbao, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm water
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 200g ground pork (preferably with a little fat)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
For the Broth Gelatin (Aspic):
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until the dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Aspic (Broth Gelatin)
- In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth until it begins to simmer. Add soy sauce and stir well.
- Sprinkle the gelatin powder into the broth, stirring continuously until it dissolves completely.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate until it sets. Once set, cut it into small cubes.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, sugar, salt, white pepper, ginger, garlic, and spring onions. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Gently fold in the aspic cubes into the pork mixture. This will create the signature "soup" effect in the dumplings.
- Cover the filling and refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Xiaolongbao
- Divide the dough into small portions, each about the size of a walnut. Roll each portion into a small ball.
- On a floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin, round wrapper, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Carefully pleat and pinch the edges of the wrapper together to seal the dumpling, forming a small, round pouch.
- Repeat the process until all the dumplings are made.
Step 5: Steam the Xiaolongbao
- Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the dumplings in the steamer, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until the dumplings are fully cooked and the filling is hot.
Tips
- Ensure the dough is well-rested before rolling to make it easier to work with.
- When pleating the dumplings, be gentle to avoid tearing the dough, which can cause the soup to leak out.
- Serve Xiaolongbao with black vinegar and thinly sliced ginger for an authentic experience.
- Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if the dumplings don’t turn out perfect the first time.
Variations
- Chicken Xiaolongbao: Substitute ground chicken for pork for a lighter version.
- Shrimp Xiaolongbao: Add finely chopped shrimp to the filling for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Xiaolongbao: Use a mixture of mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables for the filling, along with vegetable broth for the aspic.
Calorie Information
A serving of Xiaolongbao (4-5 dumplings) contains approximately 200-250 calories. The calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the dumplings. The pork filling contributes to the protein and fat content, while the dough adds carbohydrates.
Conclusion
Xiaolongbao is a culinary masterpiece that requires patience and skill to prepare, but the result is undeniably worth the effort. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack or part of a larger meal, these soup-filled dumplings offer a unique and delicious experience that is sure to impress. With the right techniques and a little practice, you can bring the taste of Shanghai's most beloved dumplings to your own kitchen. Enjoy!
