Vegan Soup Dumplings (Vegan Xiaolongbao)

Introduction for Vegan Soup Dumplings

If you’ve ever craved the comforting flavors of Chinese Xiao Long Bao but needed a plant-based version, this recipe is for you. Vegan Soup Dumplings recreate the magic of this beloved dish while keeping it 100% cruelty-free. Traditionally, soup dumplings include gelatinized meat broth that melts into a warm soup when steamed. In this recipe, agar agar, a plant-based gelling agent derived from seaweed, works as a perfect substitute to replicate the signature “broth-filled” experience.

These dumplings feature delicate wrappers, savory umami fillings, and a burst of flavorful soup in every bite. They’re perfect for dinner, a dim sum spread, or a cozy night in. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen beginner, this guide will walk you through each step to create perfect Vegan Xiaolongbao at home. Pair them with a tangy black vinegar dipping sauce or spicy chili oil for an unforgettable dish.

If you’re a fan of healthy and delicious plant-based desserts, don’t forget to check out our Matcha Brownies Recipe – A Healthy and Delicious Dessert You’ll Love to complete your meal!

Why You’ll Love Vegan Soup Dumplings

• Flavor Explosion: Every bite delivers a burst of savory, umami-packed broth and tender, flavorful filling.
• Plant-Based Innovation: Using agar agar and plant-based ingredients allows you to enjoy this dish guilt-free.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a dim sum spread.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can freeze uncooked dumplings and steam them fresh anytime you need a quick meal.

For more incredible recipes for unique comfort food, explore our 15 Incredible Game Meat Recipes You Need to Try.

A Brief History of Xiao Long Ba

Xiao Long Bao, or “small basket buns,” originated in the Nanxiang district of Shanghai in the 19th century. These dumplings gained fame for their delicate wrappers and innovative soup-filled centers, becoming a staple of Chinese cuisine and dim sum menus worldwide. Traditionally, the broth inside the dumplings comes from gelatinized meat stock, which liquefies into a soup when steamed.

Over the years, food lovers have adapted Xiao Long Bao for modern diets. This vegan version uses agar agar to replicate the gelatinous broth without compromising taste or texture. It’s a dish that perfectly marries innovation with tradition.

If you’re exploring other flavorful guides to Asian-inspired recipes, you’ll love our Hello Fresh Thai Coconut Curry Chicken – A Flavorful Experience.

Ingredients for Vegan Soup Dumplings

For the Soup Jelly (Broth):

• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon agar agar powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon mushroom seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine substitute (mirin or dry sherry)
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper
• Pinch of salt and sugar

Dumpling Filling:

• 1 cup plant-based mince (e.g., Omnipork or crumbled tofu)
• ½ cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper

Dumpling Wrappers:

• 1 pack store-bought dumpling wrappers (round, 3 inches in diameter)
• Optional: gluten-free rice flour wrappers for a gluten-free version

Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons black vinegar
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili oil
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to make Vegan Soup Dumplings

• Bamboo steamer or stainless-steel steamer
• Parchment paper or cabbage leaves (to prevent sticking)
• Mixing bowls
• Soup jelly mold or square container for chilling the broth
• Rolling pin (if making homemade wrappers)
• Dumpling pleating mold (optional but helpful for beginners)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Vegan Soup Dumplings

Step1: Prepare the Vegan Broth Jelly

1. Combine vegetable broth, agar agar powder, soy sauce, mushroom seasoning, Shaoxing wine substitute, white pepper, salt, and sugar in a saucepan.
2. Whisk well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes to ensure the agar agar is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the broth mixture into a shallow container or mold. Let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6–8 hours (or overnight) until firm.
4. Once set, cut the jelly into small ¼-inch cubes.

Step2: Make the Dumpling Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine:
   • Plant-based mince
   • Chopped shiitake mushrooms
   • Spring onions
   • Grated ginger
   • Sesame oil and white pepper
2. Gently fold in the broth jelly cubes without mashing them.

Step3: Wrap the Dumplings

1. Place a dumpling wrapper in your palm.
2. Add about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center.
3. Pinch and pleat the edges in a circular motion, forming a small pouch. Seal the top tightly to trap the broth inside.
4. Repeat for all wrappers and filling.

Pro Tip: If you’re just starting, a pleating mold can help you create perfectly uniform dumplings.

Step4: Steam the Dumplin

1. Line the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.
2. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer with some space between them.
3. Steam over boiling water for 8–10 minutes. The broth jelly will melt, creating a soup-filled center.
4. Carefully remove and serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Soup Dumplings

• To achieve the best results, follow these helpful tips carefully:
• Chill the broth jelly completely before using it to prevent melting during assembly. This step is critical because warm broth jelly will lose its structure and compromise the soup-filled effect. Additionally, chilled jelly is much easier to handle when mixing into the filling.
• Use store-bought wrappers for convenience or make homemade gluten-free versions if you prefer. Store-bought wrappers save time and ensure consistency, making them ideal for beginners. On the other hand, if you are catering to a gluten-free diet, homemade rice flour wrappers are an excellent option.
• Seal the edges tightly to ensure no soup leaks out while steaming. Pleating and pinching the edges firmly will trap the soup inside, creating the signature burst of flavor when you take a bite. If the edges are not sealed well, the broth will leak during steaming, and the dumplings will lose their signature magic.
• Steam gently to avoid breaking the wrappers during cooking. High or aggressive steam can cause pressure on the dumplings, resulting in tears in the delicate wrappers. Instead, maintain a steady, gentle steam to ensure the dumplings cook evenly without breaking.
• By paying attention to these simple tips, your vegan soup dumplings will turn out flawless. Not only will they look picture-perfect, but they will also deliver the satisfying, savory broth and filling that make this dish so special.

Serving Suggestions for Vegan Soup Dumplings

Pair your vegan soup dumplings with:

• Black vinegar and chili oil dipping sauce
• Light soy sauce with sesame oil

For more mini bite-sized comfort foods perfect for any occasion, check out our Ultimate Guide to Mini Pancakes.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Soup Dumplings

• If you want to prepare these dumplings ahead of time, freezing them is a great option. Here’s how you can do it step by step:
• To Freeze: Arrange the uncooked dumplings on a tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a little space between each dumpling to prevent them from sticking together. Place the tray in the freezer and freeze until the dumplings are solid, which usually takes about 1–2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the dumplings to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen dumplings can be stored for up to 1 month.
• To Reheat: There’s no need to thaw the dumplings before cooking. Simply place the frozen dumplings in a lined steamer basket and steam them for 12–15 minutes over boiling water. Ensure the wrappers are tender and the broth inside has melted fully. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a quick, delicious meal.
• Freezing and reheating these dumplings is incredibly convenient. It allows you to enjoy freshly steamed vegan soup dumplings whenever you like, with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a quick, homemade dim sum experience!

Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Soup Dumplings

More FAQS about Vegan Soup Dumplings

How long can I freeze dumplings?

You can freeze dumplings for up to 1 month without compromising their texture or flavor. To keep them fresh, first freeze the dumplings solid on a tray lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, steam the dumplings directly from frozen for 12–15 minutes—no need to thaw. This method ensures the dumplings retain their delicate texture and delicious filling while making meal prep quick and convenient.

Can you buy -Vegan Soup Dumplings ?

Yes, you can find vegetarian soup dumplings at certain specialty stores or through online retailers. However, fully vegan versions are more difficult to come by because traditional recipes often include gelatin or dairy to achieve the signature broth-filled center. For this reason, making them at home is the best option, as it allows you to ensure they are 100% plant-based and customized to your taste preferences. Plus, homemade dumplings are fresher, healthier, and can be adapted for dietary needs like gluten-free options.


Can you buy vegan soup dumplings?

Yes, you can find vegetarian soup dumplings at certain specialty stores or through online retailers. However, fully vegan versions are more difficult to come by because traditional recipes often include gelatin or dairy to achieve the signature broth-filled center. For this reason, making them at home is the best option, as it allows you to ensure they are 100% plant-based and customized to your taste preferences. Plus, homemade dumplings are fresher, healthier, and can be adapted for dietary needs like gluten-free options.

Can you buy vegan soup dumplings?

Yes, you can find vegetarian soup dumplings at certain specialty stores or through online retailers. However, fully vegan versions are more difficult to come by because traditional recipes often include gelatin or dairy to achieve the signature broth-filled center. For this reason, making them at home is the best option, as it allows you to ensure they are 100% plant-based and customized to your taste preferences. Plus, homemade dumplings are fresher, healthier, and can be adapted for dietary needs like gluten-free options.

Can you buy vegan soup dumplings?

Yes, you can find vegetarian soup dumplings at certain specialty stores or through online retailers. However, fully vegan versions are more difficult to come by because traditional recipes often include gelatin or dairy to achieve the signature broth-filled center. For this reason, making them at home is the best option, as it allows you to ensure they are 100% plant-based and customized to your taste preferences. Plus, homemade dumplings are fresher, healthier, and can be adapted for dietary needs like gluten-free options.

Conclusion for Vegan Soup Dumplings

These Vegan Soup Dumplings bring the classic flavors of Xiao Long Bao to the plant-based table, offering the same comforting warmth and delicious burst of savory soup. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner, a special gathering, or simply treating yourself, these dumplings are guaranteed to impress every time.

Not only are they packed with flavor, but they’re also freezer-friendly and incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy homemade dim sum whenever the craving strikes. Prepare a batch ahead of time, freeze them, and steam as needed for a quick yet impressive meal that never disappoints.

If you’re looking for more savory and creative ideas for food lovers, don’t miss our Savory Crab Brulee Recipe. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these delicious dumplings!