Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

Vegan soup dumplings, or vegetarian soup dumplings, are a delightful plant-based take on the classic Chinese delicacy known as Xiaolongbao. These dumplings are renowned for their signature broth-filled center, delicate wrappers, and savory fillings that burst with flavor in every bite. Traditionally made with pork and gelatinized broth, this recipe recreates the magic using plant-based ingredients like vegetable stock, agar agar, and tofu or vegan mince.

Perfect for dinner, these vegetarian soup dumplings provide the ideal balance of comforting warmth and satisfying texture. Whether you’re looking for a new dish to impress your loved ones or searching for a vegan comfort food recipe, these dumplings are the perfect solution. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the umami flavor of the filling, combined with a luscious broth that melts in your mouth. Best of all, this dish is freezer-friendly, customizable, and surprisingly simple to make at home. If you love dumpling recipes, don’t miss our popular Rice Paper Dumplings Recipe for another easy and delicious plant-based option.

What Are Vegetarian Soup Dumplings?

Vegetarian soup dumplings (or vegan Xiaolongbao) are the ultimate plant-based version of traditional soup dumplings. Originating in Chinese cuisine, Xiaolongbao are steamed dumplings filled with a savory meat mixture and soup that liquefies during cooking. Instead of meat and gelatin, this vegan version uses a combination of agar agar, vegetable stock, and vegan fillings like tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based mince to recreate the classic flavors and textures.

The secret to these soup dumplings lies in the preparation of the broth jelly, which is created using agar agar—a vegan-friendly gelling agent. When steamed, the jelly melts into a rich, savory broth that bursts inside your mouth. Combined with a delicate, homemade dumpling wrapper and flavorful vegan dumpling filling, these dumplings deliver an authentic experience without any animal products. If you enjoy flavorful vegan soups, be sure to check out our Easy Swamp Soup Recipe for another cozy meal idea.

In addition to being delicious, these broth-filled dumplings are versatile and adaptable. You can experiment with different fillings such as shiitake mushrooms, tofu, or lentils to create unique flavor variations. Whether served as a light dinner or an appetizer, vegan soup dumplings are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your plant-based cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

There are plenty of reasons why you’ll fall in love with this vegetarian soup dumpling recipe. First, it offers the comforting warmth and satisfying flavors of traditional Xiaolongbao, but in a fully vegan format. By using plant-based ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and guilt-free. The combination of savory broth dumplings and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth wrapper creates an experience that’s both indulgent and wholesome.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a cozy meal for yourself, these vegan dumplings fit the bill perfectly. They’re also freezer-friendly, making them an ideal option for busy parents, professionals, or students. You can prepare a batch in advance, freeze them, and steam them whenever you’re ready for a quick, satisfying meal.

Additionally, the filling options are endless. From tofu dumpling fillings to mushroom medleys or lentil-based mixtures, you can easily customize these plant-based dumplings to suit your taste preferences. Plus, with the right dipping sauce—like a tangy black vinegar dipping sauce or spicy chili oil—these dumplings deliver a perfect burst of flavor in every bite. If you’re looking for a full meal pairing, our Hello Fresh Thai Coconut Curry Chicken offers a delicious complement to these dumplings with its bold Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients for Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

To make these delicious vegan soup dumplings, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are readily available. Below is a complete breakdown of everything required for the broth jelly, filling, wrappers, and dipping sauce:

Broth Jelly Ingredients:

• 2 cups vegetable stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 teaspoons agar agar powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Filling Ingredients:

• 1 cup plant-based mince (or tofu, finely crumbled)
• ½ cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)

Dumpling Wrapper Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for softer dough)

Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

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

Each of these components plays a vital role in creating the perfect vegetarian soup dumpling. The broth jelly provides the signature soupy center, while the filling adds the savory richness. The dough for the wrappers is soft and elastic, ensuring the dumplings hold their shape during steaming. Lastly, the dipping sauce adds the perfect tangy, spicy complement to the dumplings’ flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

Step 1: Preparing the Broth Jelly

The broth jelly is the heart of these vegan soup dumplings, as it creates the soupy center when steamed. To make the jelly:

1. Combine vegetable stock, agar agar, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil in a saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to ensure the agar agar dissolves completely.
3. Once fully combined, lower the heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Pour the broth mixture into a shallow dish or tray and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator to set for at least 1–2 hours.
5. Once set, cut the jelly into small cubes (about ½ inch). This will make it easier to distribute into the dumplings later.

Step 2: Making the Vegan Filling

The filling for these vegetarian soup dumplings is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Follow these steps:

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shiitake mushrooms, sautéing for 3–4 minutes.
2. Stir in the plant-based mince (or tofu) and cook until slightly browned. Add soy sauce, chili flakes, and finely chopped spring onions. Mix well to combine.
3. Remove the filling from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Gently fold in the broth jelly cubes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. Refrigerate the filling until ready to use.

Step 3: Making the Dumpling Dough

The dough for the steamed dumplings should be soft, elastic, and easy to work with. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

Step 4: Assembling the Dumplings

Assembling the dumplings can be fun and rewarding. Follow these steps:

1. Divide the dough into small, equal portions and roll each into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin, round wrapper (about 3 inches in diameter).
2. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the dumpling to break during steaming.
3. Carefully pleat and pinch the edges of the wrapper to seal the dumpling, creating a round, pouch-like shape. Repeat until all dumplings are assembled.

Step 5: Steaming the Dumplings

Steaming the dumplings ensures they cook evenly while maintaining their soft texture. Here’s how:

1. Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper or a cheesecloth to prevent the dumplings from sticking.
2. Arrange the dumplings inside the steamer, leaving space between each one.
3. Place the bamboo steamer over a pot of boiling water and steam the dumplings for 8–10 minutes, until the wrappers are translucent and the filling is cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Xiao Long Bao

To achieve perfect vegan soup dumplings, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high-quality agar agar powder to ensure the broth jelly sets firmly.
• Roll the dumpling wrappers thinly but evenly to achieve a delicate texture.
• Avoid overfilling the dumplings to prevent leaks during steaming.
• Seal the dumpling edges tightly to keep the broth inside.

Substitutions and Variations for Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

• Replace vegan mince

with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu for a different flavor profile.

• For a gluten-free version, use rice paper wrappers or gluten-free flour.
• Add roasted curry cauliflower or lentils for a fusion twist.

How to Store and Reheat Soup Dumplings

Freezing: Place uncooked dumplings on a tray, ensuring they are not touching, and freeze for 1–2 hours. This step prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen solid, transfer the dumplings to a storage container or freezer-safe bag. To keep them fresh, make sure to remove any excess air from the container or bag. Label the container with the date so you can track how long they’ve been stored. You can freeze the dumplings for up to 1 month without compromising their flavor or texture.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the dumplings, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply place the frozen dumplings in a bamboo steamer or steaming basket lined with parchment paper. Steam the dumplings directly over boiling water for 12–15 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and the wrappers turn translucent. To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the steamer. For best results, serve the dumplings immediately after steaming with your favorite dipping sauce. If you want a crispier texture, you can pan-fry the steamed dumplings for a few minutes after steaming.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

These vegetarian soup dumplings provide a nutritious and delicious meal. They offer plenty of plant-based protein from tofu and vegan mince, while ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and spring onions deliver essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, these dumplings are naturally low in fat and completely cholesterol-free, making them a heart-healthy option.

The combination of mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables also adds a significant amount of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. With their nutrient-rich filling and savory broth, these dumplings make an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balanced, plant-based meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or health.

FAQs About Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

1. What are vegetarian soup dumplings made of? They’re made with broth jelly, vegan fillings, and dumpling wrappers.
2. How do you get the soup inside? The soup is created using broth jelly, which melts during steaming.
3. Can you freeze them? Yes, freeze uncooked dumplings and steam directly when needed.

Conclusion about Vegetarian Soup Dumplings

These vegan soup dumplings are a perfect combination of comforting warmth, authentic flavor, and plant-based goodness. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that’s healthy and delicious.