Vegan Soup Dumplings

To make Vegan Soup Dumplings, also known as Xiao Long Bao, you will need to prepare a jellied broth that melts into soup when steamed, along with a savory filling. Here’s a step-by-step cooking guide to creating these delicious dumplings.

Ingredients

For the Soup Jelly

• 1 tsp agar agar
• 1 cube vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine
• Salt, sugar, white pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp mushroom seasoning
• 2 cups water

For the Dumpling Filling

• 250g vegan pork mince (or tofu for a wholefood option)
• 2 stalks spring onions (chopped)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Chili flakes (optional)

For the Dumpling Wrappers

• You can buy pre-made round dumpling wrappers or make your own using:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water

For the Dipping Sauce

• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp black vinegar
• 1 tsp chili oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Jelly

1. In a saucepan, combine the vegetable stock cube and agar agar with 2 cups of water.
2. Bring to a boil while stirring, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow container and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6-8 hours until set.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, crumble the vegan pork mince.
2. Add chopped spring onions, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Mix well.
3. Once the soup jelly is set, chop it into small cubes and fold it into the filling mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Wrappers

1. If making your own wrappers, mix flour with boiling water until a dough forms. Knead until smooth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into round wrappers (about 3 inches in diameter).

Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Place about 1.5 tablespoons of filling in the center of each wrapper.
2. Carefully pleat the edges of the wrapper to seal the dumpling, ensuring there are no gaps.

Step 5: Steam the Dumplings

1. Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
2. Place dumplings in the steamer basket, leaving space between each one.
3. Steam over boiling water for about 8 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve hot with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, black vinegar, and chili oil.
2. To enjoy, pierce the dumpling with a chopstick or spoon to release the broth before taking a bite.

Here are some creative ideas and variations for enhancing your vegan soup dumplings experience:

Creative Dipping Sauces

Classic Soy Dipping Sauce:

• Ingredients: 1/3 cup soy sauce or tamari, 1 tsp rice wine vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp agave syrup or brown sugar, chopped green onions.
• Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Add optional sesame seeds or chili crisp for extra flavor

Spicy Sichuan Sauce:

• Ingredients: Chilli flakes, chopped scallions, ground Sichuan pepper, hot oil, light soy sauce, black rice vinegar, pinch of sugar.
• Instructions: Heat oil until smoking, pour over the spices in a bowl, then add soy sauce and vinegar

Peanut Sauce:

• Ingredients: 1/4 cup peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and water to thin.
• Instructions: Whisk together until smooth. This adds a creamy and nutty flavor to your dumplings.

Gelatin Substitutes

Yes, you can use other gelatin substitutes instead of agar agar. Here are some options:

• Kappa Carrageenan: Similar to agar agar but sets at a lower temperature.
• Gelatin: If not strictly vegan, traditional gelatin can work well.
• Pectin: Often used in jams; it can also create a gel-like consistency.

Enhancing Flavor

To make your vegan soup dumplings more flavorful:

• Use Umami-Rich Ingredients: Incorporate mushrooms (like shiitake), miso paste, or nutritional yeast into the filling.
• Marinate the Filling: Let the vegan pork mince or tofu marinate in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Include fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic boost.

Regional Variations

Vegan soup dumplings can be inspired by various regional flavors:

• Taiwanese Style: Use a filling of mushrooms and bamboo shoots with a sweet soy dipping sauce.
• Sichuan Style: Incorporate spicy elements like chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns in both the filling and dipping sauce.
• Japanese Inspired: Use a miso-based filling with edamame and serve with ponzu sauce.

Side Dishes to Pair

To complement your vegan soup dumplings:

• Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing.
• Fried Rice or Quinoa Stir-Fry: A hearty side that balances the lightness of dumplings.
• Miso Soup: A warm broth that pairs well with the flavors of the dumplings.

Unique Ingredients to Add

1. Mushrooms: Incorporate finely chopped shiitake or oyster mushrooms for added umami flavor.
2. Tofu: Crumbled or silken tofu can enhance the texture and protein content of the filling.
3. Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness and color to the filling.
4. Spinach or Kale: Chopped greens can provide a nutritional boost and vibrant color.
5. Nuts: Finely chopped water chestnuts or cashews can add crunch and texture.
6. Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint can elevate the flavor profile.

Spicy Dipping Sauce

To make a spicy dipping sauce for vegan soup dumplings:

• Ingredients:
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1-2 tsp chili oil (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: minced garlic, grated ginger, or chopped scallions for extra flavor.
• Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Adjust spice levels according to preference.

Traditional Dipping Sauces Adapted for Vegan Versions

Traditional dipping sauces for soup dumplings can easily be adapted:

• Black Vinegar Sauce: Combine black vinegar with soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil.
• Chili Oil Sauce: Mix chili oil with soy sauce and rice vinegar; add minced garlic for extra flavor.
• Sweet Soy Sauce: Blend soy sauce with a bit of agave syrup or brown sugar for sweetness.

Popular Vegan Soup Dumpling Fillings from Different Cultures

1. Chinese Style: Vegan pork mince mixed with ginger, scallions, and mushroom seasoning.
2. Japanese Gyoza Style: A filling of finely chopped cabbage, mushrooms, and tofu seasoned with soy sauce and ginger.
3. Korean Mandu Style: Use kimchi mixed with tofu and vegetables for a spicy kick.
4. Indian Inspired: A filling of spiced potatoes and peas seasoned with garam masala.

Alternative Flours for Dumpling Wrappers

Yes, you can use different types of flour to make dumpling wrappers:

• Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option with more fiber.
• Rice Flour: For gluten-free wrappers; combine with tapioca flour for better texture.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: A blend designed for gluten-free baking can work well too.

These Vegan Soup Dumplings are not only delicious but also provide a fun cooking experience! Enjoy your meal!