Vegetarian soup dumplings, also known as xiaolongbao, are a delightful treat that combines a savory filling with a rich broth encased in a delicate wrapper. This recipe uses agar-agar to create a gelatinous broth that turns into soup when steamed, providing an authentic experience without any meat. Perfect for a comforting meal or an impressive appetizer, these dumplings are sure to please!

Ingredients

For the Broth Jelly:

• 1½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 250g vegan minced pork (or finely chopped mushrooms and tofu)
• 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• Optional: ½ teaspoon chili flakes for heat

For the Dumpling Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup boiling water
• Pinch of salt

For Dipping Sauce:

• Chinkiang vinegar or black vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Chili oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Jelly

1. In a saucepan, combine the vegetable broth and agar-agar powder. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the agar is fully dissolved.
3. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the vegan minced pork (or mushroom-tofu mix), chopped green onions, grated ginger, sesame oil, white pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
2. Once the broth jelly is set, chop it into small cubes and fold it into the filling mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add boiling water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings

1. Divide the rested dough into small pieces (about 10 grams each) and roll each piece into a ball.
2. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin circle (about 3–4 inches in diameter).
3. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
4. Carefully pleat the edges of the dough around the filling to seal it tightly at the top.

Step 5: Steam the Dumplings

1. Prepare your steamer by lining it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, leaving space between them to allow for expansion during cooking.
3. Bring water to a boil in your steamer pot and steam the dumplings for about 8 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Carefully remove the dumplings from the steamer and serve immediately with dipping sauce on the side.
2. For dipping sauce, mix Chinkiang vinegar with soy sauce and chili oil if desired.

Tips for Success

• Chill Your Filling: Ensure your filling is cool before adding it to your dumpling wrappers to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, sprinkle in some more flour as you knead.
• Freezing Dumplings: You can freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for later use.

These vegetarian soup dumplings are not only super delicious but also easy to make! With their tasty filling and rich broth that bursts in your mouth with every bite, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy this comforting dish as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal!