How to Eat Soup Dumplings
Follow these simple rules for eating a soup dumpling and enjoy a perfect bite.
Soup Dumplings or xiao long bao are delicate steamed dumplings filled with a savory broth and meat that bursts in your mouth when you bite into one. The tricky part is knowing exactly how to prepare for that moment. Follow these steps for the ultimate soup dumpling experience.
Wait two minutes
If you eat a soup dumpling the moment the steamer basket is uncovered, you will scald the inside of your mouth and regret it. Allow at least 2 minutes once the steaming basket is uncovered for the dumplings to cool.
Season
Add vinegar and a ginger sliver to the soup spoon.
Transfer the dumpling
The dumpling is folded with a nub at the tip. Carefully grab this with chopsticks, slowly lifting the dumpling from the basket to ensure the bottom doesn't puncture. Transfer onto the spoon.
Pro-Tip: Bite off a bit of wrapper to expedite interior cooling.
Slurp
Slurp the dumpling directly from the spoon in one go.
