If you’ve ever indulged in the delight of Xiao Long Bao, also known as Shanghai Soup Dumplings, you’ll understand their unique appeal. These delicate little parcels hold a mixture of savory pork, flavorful broth, and aromatic spices all wrapped up in a thin, tender dough. Making them at home might seem like a daunting task, but with this step-by-step recipe, you’ll be crafting your own delicious Xiao Long Bao in no time. Let’s dive into the art of creating these iconic dumplings at home.
Xiao Long Bao Shanghai Soup Dumpling Recipe
Ingredients:
– For the filling:
1 pound ground pork
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chicken broth
– For the dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup water, boiling
1/4 teaspoon salt
– For the soup:
2 cups rich chicken broth
1 teaspoon gelatin
Instructions:
1. Start by making the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, sugar, white pepper, salt, and chicken broth. Mix everything well until thoroughly combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the filling chill in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Next, let’s make the dough. In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly pour the boiling water into the flour while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. While the dough is resting, prepare the soup. In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth until almost boiling. Add the gelatin and stir well until it dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let the soup cool to room temperature.
5. Now, it’s time to assemble the dumplings. Roll out the dough into a long log shape and cut it into small even pieces. Roll each piece into a round wrapper, ensuring the edges are thin with a slightly thicker center.
6. Place a spoonful of the chilled pork filling in the center of each wrapper. Bring the edges together, pleating and twisting to seal the dumpling securely.
7. Finally, steam the Xiao Long Bao. Prepare a steamer and line it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dumplings inside, leaving some space between each one. Steam over high heat for about 8-10 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
Voila! Your homemade Xiao Long Bao Shanghai Soup Dumplings are ready to be served. Pair them with a dipping sauce of vinegar and ginger for the perfect finish.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of these delectable dumplings right in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with different fillings and shapes to make each batch unique. With practice and patience, you’ll soon master the art of making Xiao Long Bao like a pro. Gather your loved ones for a delightful culinary experience that is sure to impress.
