Soy-Free Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)

Delight in the delicate, savory perfection of **Soy-Free Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)**—a wholesome twist on the classic dim sum favorite. These handcrafted dumplings feature tender homemade wrappers encasing a juicy ground pork filling infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and green onions. The secret lies in the soy-free gelatinized chicken stock, which melts into a rich, flavorful broth as the dumplings steam to perfection. Whether you're avoiding soy or simply craving a culinary adventure, this recipe delivers all the iconic flavors and textures of xiao long bao, minus the soy. Paired with a tangy black vinegar and ginger dipping sauce, these dumplings are an impressive and satisfying treat for any gathering or indulgent night in.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:90 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Unflavored gelatin powder
• 2.5 cups Chicken stock (low-sodium, soy-free)
• 1 pound Ground pork
• 2 cloves Garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons Green onions, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons Fish sauce (check label for soy-free)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.75 cup Boiling water
• 0.25 cup Cold water
• 1 teaspoon Neutral oil (e.g., vegetable oil)

Directions

Step 1

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the chicken stock to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the stock and whisk until fully dissolved.

Step 2

Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set. Once firm, cut the gelatin into small cubes and set aside.

Step 3

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, fish sauce, salt, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 4

Gently fold the gelatin cubes into the pork mixture. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the dumpling wrappers.

Step 5

To make the wrappers, place the flour in a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour the boiling water into the flour, stirring constantly with chopsticks or a wooden spoon.

Step 6

Add the cold water and oil, then knead the mixture into a soft dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 7

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 8

Divide the dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a thin log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a thin, round wrapper using a rolling pin.

Step 9

Place 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Carefully pleat the edges together and twist to seal at the top, ensuring the dumpling is fully closed.

Step 10

Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer, ensuring they're not touching.

Step 11

Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the bamboo steamer on top. Steam the dumplings over high heat for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 12

Serve immediately with a side of black vinegar and ginger slices for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1598.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2361.0

Total Fat 102.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 36.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 408.2mg	0%
Sodium 3948.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 194.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.5g	0%
Total Sugars 5.4g
Protein 151.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 201.7mg	0%
Iron 16.1mg	0%
Potassium 491.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.1%

Protein: 26.2%

Carbs: 33.7%