These vegan soup dumplings are a true culinary masterpiece. They are made with love, using plant-based ingredients. Each bite is filled with savory broth, thanks to agar agar, and a mix of mushrooms, tofu, and veggies.
At United Dumplings, we’ve worked hard to create these vegetarian soup dumplings. They are now available at our three San Francisco spots: Bernal, Marina, and Rockridge.
Every dumpling is handcrafted daily. It has a special four-pocket design. Inside, you’ll find a mix of spinach, carrots, and Napa cabbage.
The secret to the broth is simmering vegetable broth, soy sauce, and agar agar. This mixture is then sealed in a thin dough wrapper. When steamed, they melt in your mouth, providing comfort and nutrition.
Essential Ingredients for Plant-Based Dumplings
Making vegetarian soup dumplings requires top-notch ingredients. These balance texture and taste perfectly. Let’s explore the key parts for the soup jelly and the filling.
Soup jelly base:
- Agar agar powder (plant-based gelatin)
- Vegetable stock cube (or homemade broth)
- Soy sauce and Shaoxing wine for depth
- Salt, sugar, and white pepper to adjust seasoning
Filling essentials:
- Vegan mince (try brands like Omnipork)
- Chopped scallions, grated ginger, and optional chili flakes
- Sesame oil and black vinegar for finishing
Dough foundation:
- All-purpose flour (1 cup, unbleached preferred)
- Baking powder (1 tsp) and sea salt (¾ tsp)
- Olive oil and warm water for mixing
- Coconut milk or vegan butter as optional substitutes
For sauces, use soy sauce mixed with chili oil or black vinegar. Drizzle it over steamed dumplings. You can also swap vegan mince with tofu, lentils, or mushrooms. Fresh herbs like thyme add a lot to the flavor.
Using the right amounts of ingredients is key. It ensures the jelly sets right and the dough stays soft. Quality ingredients make vegetarian soup dumplings both true to form and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Perfect Your Vegetarian Soup Dumplings
Learning to make vegetarian soup dumplings requires focus and care. These healthy dumpling recipes mix old traditions with new plant-based ideas. Follow these steps for great results every time.
Preparation and Pre-Cooking Steps
- Start by making the jellied broth. Mix 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, ⅛ tsp salt, and 1¼ tsp agar agar powder in a pot. Heat it up, then lower the heat and simmer until it’s all dissolved. Let it cool down in a container until it’s firm.
- Next, prepare the tofu filling. Soak glass noodles in warm water until they’re soft, then chop them up. Drain and crumble 1 lb of firm tofu. Cook the tofu with 2 eggs and 3 tbsps of oil. Add in noodles, green onions, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, salt, and a bit of sesame oil if you like.
- Now, make the dough. In a bowl, mix together 200g of flour, 1 tsp of yeast, 1 tsp of sugar, and 110ml of water. Knead it until it’s smooth, cover it, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Cooking Process Unveiled
After you’ve prepped everything, it’s time to put it all together:
- Cut the chilled broth into cubes and divide the dough into 15g portions. Roll each portion into a thin round.
- Take a wrapper in your hand. Wet the edge, add ½ tbsp of broth cube and ½ tbsp of filling. Fold it, seal the edges tightly, and pleat the edges to make a classic dumpling shape.
- Steam the dumplings in a basket for 15 minutes. Serve them hot with soy sauce and vinegar.
Pro tip: Make sure the dough rests well to avoid it tearing. Also, adjust the seasoning before you start assembling.
Creative Cooking Tips and Variations
Let your creativity shine with these simple tweaks to vegan dim sum. Try bold flavors or adjust fillings for any diet. Make each bite uniquely yours.
- Flavor Boosts: Add truffle oil to broth for richness or sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
- Herb Play: Try cilantro, lemongrass, or ginger for fresh herbal notes.
- Texture Mix: Fold in crispy fried onions or sesame seeds for crunch.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements
Switch up broth bases with miso or coconut milk. For heat, mix chili flakes into filling or serve with a spicy soy-garlic dip. Try Shanghai’s light broth or Hakka taro-stuffed dumplings for regional twists.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
Swap Omnipork with silken tofu for a softer texture or add jackfruit for chewiness. Need gluten-free? Use tamari sauce and certified GF flour. Adjust spice levels by blending peppers or using mild paprika.
Storage hacks? Prep fillings ahead but keep dough fresh under a damp cloth. Always test broth seasoning before assembly—balance salt and sweet with coconut aminos or agave. These tips turn basic vegan dim sum into a customizable feast!
Storage and Reheating Instructions Explained
Keeping your homemade dumplings for vegans fresh is key. They should stay tender and juicy. The right storage and reheating methods help keep them that way.
Best Storage Practices
- Store uncooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Use a damp cloth to keep them moist.
- Refrigerate dough overnight in a sealed bag to keep it flexible.
- Keep fillings like vegetable mixtures in the fridge for 1–2 hours before using. This prevents them from getting too wet.
- Freezing is not recommended because of their delicate nature. But if you must, freeze them flat on a tray. Then, move them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Reheating Tips & Tricks
To keep them juicy, steam dumplings for 3 minutes when reheating. For frozen ones, steam for 8 minutes or pan-fry for 10–12 minutes in a bit of oil. Don’t use microwaves, as they dry out the dough. Serve them warm to enjoy the soup’s flavor.
Remember, dumplings taste best when eaten right away. If you’re reheating, check the texture first. The wrapper should be crisp but soft.
Serving Suggestions for a Delicious Vegan Dim Sum
Turn your vegan soup dumplings into a memorable dim sum feast with these vibrant serving ideas. Pair them with ramen broth for a light, brothy contrast or crispy fried greens for added crunch. I love arranging dumplings alongside chili miso steamed aubergine or claypot tofu for a flavorful spread.
- Side dishes: Brighten your plate with cucumber salad (Oi Muchim) or roasted veggies like carrots and bok choy.
- Dipping sauces: Offer small bowls of sesame-ginger dressing or chili crisp for drizzling.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped herbs, or microgreens for color and texture.
For a cohesive presentation, serve dumplings on lacquered trays or bamboo leaves. Pan-fried dumplings can be garnished with crushed peanuts or lime wedges. Add a steamed jasmine rice bed for hearty dishes like tomato tofu noodle soup. Experiment with color contrasts—pair deep green bok choy with red chili flakes or golden sesame oil drizzles. Remember to keep sauces and sides simple so dumplings stay the star.
Conclusion
Every bite of these vegan soup dumplings tells a story of innovation and care. They start with fresh ingredients like shiitake mushrooms. The recipe combines tradition with modern plant-based cooking.
These dumplings are perfect for dinner parties or a quiet meal. They show that cruelty-free eating can be both indulgent and nourishing. With 450 calories per serving, they offer 20g protein and fiber-rich carbs.
My journey to create this dish took me to Han Palace McLean. Their aromatic broth-inspired fillings showed me how Asian flavors can enhance simple ingredients. Their use of savory gyoza and noodle pairings inspired my own kitchen experiments.
Now it’s your turn. Swap mushrooms as needed, drizzle with chili oil, or serve with jasmine rice. These dumplings adapt to your preferences while staying true to their roots.
Remember, mastering the steam technique or crafting the perfect wrapper takes practice. Don’t hesitate to adjust fillings or sauces to suit your taste. Whether you’re new to dumplings or a seasoned cook, this recipe offers flexibility.
Share your versions online, tag your creations, and let the world see how plant-based dining can be both bold and comforting. Your kitchen awaits—roll up your sleeves and let these dumplings become your next culinary adventure.
FAQ
What are vegan soup dumplings made of?
Vegan soup dumplings are made from a plant-based dough. They’re filled with a savory mix of plant-based mince, spices, and a broth. This broth is made with agar agar for that traditional soup feel.
How do I achieve a good broth in my vegetarian soup dumplings?
For a flavorful broth, use top-notch ingredients and the right agar agar amount. Start with a rich vegetable broth. Then, mix in agar agar until it thickens. Once cooled, it turns into a jelly-like soup that bursts in your mouth.
Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Use rice flour or a gluten-free flour mix for the wrapper. Make sure your filling and other ingredients are gluten-free too. This keeps the dish true to its gluten-free nature.
How do I store leftover vegan soup dumplings?
For short-term, cover them with a damp towel in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet. Then, put them in an airtight container. This stops them from sticking and keeps their shape.
What are some good dipping sauces for vegan dim sum?
Try pairing your vegan soup dumplings with different sauces. Soy sauce, vinegar-based sauces with chili oil, or homemade peanut sauce are great. You can also mix and match flavors to suit your taste.
Are there health benefits to eating plant-based dumplings?
Absolutely! Vegan soup dumplings are full of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They’re a healthy, filling option compared to meat dumplings. Plus, they offer comforting flavors.