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There’s a special joy that comes with gathering family and friends around the dining table, and nothing brings that essence more than a steaming plate of savory Din Tai Fung soup dumplings. Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender parcels of delicate dough envelop a luscious, flavorful broth just waiting to burst forth with each blissful bite.

After a particularly hectic week, I found myself yearning for the authenticity of a dim sum feast but wanted to craft it right at home. That moment inspired this recipe, which allows you to channel your inner chef without the intimidation factor. Whether you’re entertaining guests, satisfying a family craving, or simply indulging in some self-care, these homemade dumplings are the answer. Plus, the flexibility to customize fillings—be it spicy, cheesy, or vegetarian—makes them a crowd-pleasing delight for any occasion. Ready to impress? Let’s get cooking!

Why Love These Savory Soup Dumplings?

Homemade Delight: These soup dumplings offer the authentic flavor of Din Tai Fung, made right in your own kitchen.
Customization Galore: With options for spice, cheese, or even vegetarian fillings, you’ll never tire of this recipe!
Impressive Presentation: Your guests will be wowed by these delicate, handcrafted dumplings that look as good as they taste.
Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, wholesome components ensures a delicious outcome that beats any fast-food comparison.
Quick to Prepare: This recipe is designed for home chefs looking for convenience without sacrificing taste—perfect for weeknights or dinner parties!
Family Affair: Get everyone involved in the dumpling-making process, turning cooking into a fun, memorable activity that brings loved ones together.

Savory Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Ingredients

• Dive into the secrets of flavor with these essential ingredients!

For the Broth
Chicken Wings – Creates a rich broth base; use fresh wings for a deeper flavor.
Dried Shiitake Mushroom – Adds earthy depth and umami; substitute with another type if necessary.
Garlic (3 cloves) – Infuses the broth with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is preferable.
Ginger (2 slices) – Enhances warmth and balances the flavors; fresh ginger is essential.
Spring Onions (2) – Adds a fresh, zesty note; can be replaced with green onions.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Provides savory depth to the broth; opt for low-sodium version for less salt.
Shaoxing Wine (1 tbsp) – Adds subtle sweetness; can be swapped with dry sherry if needed.
Water (3 cups) – The main component of the broth.
Sea Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Powdered Gelatin (8 g) – Transforms the broth into jelly; ensure it’s fully dissolved for the best texture.
For the Filling
Pork Mince (400 g) – Main filling component; provides juiciness; can be substituted with chopped mushrooms or seafood.
Finely Chopped Spring Onions (1/4 cup) – Brightens the filling.
Sesame Oil (2 tsp) – Adds nuttiness; can use olive oil if preferred.
Ground Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Introduces a hint of spice; adjust to your taste.
For Wrapping
Gow Gee or Gyoza Wrappers (40) – Encases the filling; store-bought wrappers save time and effort.

With these ingredients at your disposal, you’re on your way to crafting truly savory Din Tai Fung soup dumplings that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests!

How to Make Savory Din Tai Fung Soup Dumplings

Prepare Broth: Combine chicken wings, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, ginger, spring onions, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, water, and salt in a microwave-safe container. Microwave for 30 minutes until infused and fragrant.
Create Gelatin: Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve, then add powdered gelatin while it’s still warm. Stir to dissolve, then pour into a tray to set about 1 cm deep; chill for 1 hour until firm.
Cube Gelatin: Once set, cut the gelatin into 1 cm cubes. This will be your savory broth filling, nestled inside each dumpling.
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine pork mince, jelly cubes, chopped spring onions, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well integrated and flavors meld together.
Wrap Dumplings: Place a wrapper in your palm, spoon in your filling, moisten the edges with a little water. Carefully fold and pleat the wrapper, sealing it securely, then arrange on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
Steam Dumplings: Arrange your dumplings on an aluminum tray lined with steam liners and steam for 12 minutes over simmering water until the wrappers are translucent and soft.
Serve: Drizzle your fresh dumplings with soy sauce and chili oil, sprinkle some ginger on top, and serve hot to enjoy the delightful burst of flavors.

Optional: Serve with a side of fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Savory Soup Dumplings

Keep Wrappers Covered: Moisture is key; keep dumpling wrappers covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent them from drying out.
Mind the Filling Amount: Avoid overstuffing the dumplings, as it can lead to burst wrappers. A tablespoon of filling is usually just right!
Steaming Secrets: Use parchment paper in your steamer to prevent sticking; it ensures a smooth release after cooking your savory Din Tai Fung soup dumplings.
Gelatin Matters: Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved in warm broth before setting it; any clumps will affect the texture of the filling.
Freezing Tips: When freezing, steam dumplings directly from the freezer. This maintains moisture and ensures they cook evenly.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with seasonings in your filling; customizing it can lead to pleasantly surprising tastes!

What to Serve with Homemade Din Tai Fung Soup Dumplings?

Nothing completes a warm, homemade meal quite like the perfect sides or drinks to elevate your gathering.

Soy Sauce Dip: A must-have for dipping; its rich umami enhances the savory broth of the dumplings beautifully. Just a sprinkle adds depth and flavor.
Chili Oil Drizzle: Infuse some heat! The spiciness contrasts perfectly with the succulent, savory filling, awakening your taste buds with each bite.
Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of the dumplings with its crisp texture and a zesty vinaigrette.
Steamed Bok Choy: A vibrant and nutritious side, sautéed or steamed bok choy provides a mild flavor and a lovely crunch, rounding out the meal.
Green Tea: The soothing notes of green tea cleanse the palate and complement the savory flavors of your dumplings, making this a delightful pairing.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet is the perfect finale—a refreshing, sweet contrast to the warm, rich dumplings.

Each of these options harmonizes with the delightful savory din Tai Fung soup dumplings, creating a meal that leaves everyone satisfied and pleased.

Make Ahead Options

These savory Din Tai Fung soup dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the broth and gelatin up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the broth and allow the gelatin to set in the fridge. Additionally, you can mix the filling (using pork mince and jelly cubes) up to 3 days ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, wrap your dumplings and steam them fresh. This not only ensures they are just as delicious but also allows you to impress family and friends with minimal last-minute effort!

Savory Soup Dumpling Variations

Feel free to stir up your culinary creativity and explore delicious twists on these beloved dumplings!

Vegetarian Version: Substitute pork with finely chopped mushrooms and firm tofu for a satisfying veggie option. Opt for a mixture of shiitake and portobello for an umami boost.
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dollop of sriracha to the filling for those who crave some heat. Adjust the spice level according to your tolerance—it can transform the dish entirely!
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese into your filling for a creamy, comforting twist. Consider melting mozzarella or using a sharp cheddar for an added flavor dimension.
Seafood Twist: Replace pork with shrimp or finely flaked fish for a light and zesty variation. This option is especially refreshing and pairs beautifully with a citrus dipping sauce.
Low-Carb Option: For a healthier alternative, use cabbage leaves instead of traditional wrappers. This swap not only adds crunch but also brings a lovely color and freshness.
Crispy Bottoms: Lightly fry the dumplings before steaming to create a delightful crispy bottom. This dual cooking method gives fantastic texture and an exciting contrast with the tender filling.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the filling with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a garden-fresh taste. A bit of chopped mint can also lend an unexpected freshness that brightens each bite!
Sweet Surprise: Add a hint of sugar or finely diced apples to the filling for a sweet-savory element. This variation can make for a tantalizing surprise during your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Savory Din Tai Fung Soup Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftover savory dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: Freeze unsteamed dumplings on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, steam frozen dumplings directly from the freezer for about 12-15 minutes until heated through. This keeps them moist and delicious.

Wrapping: Ensure dumplings are well sealed before freezing; this prevents freezer burn and preserves flavor.

Savory Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken wings should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh chicken wings for a richer broth. Look for wings that have a nice pink color and no dark spots; this indicates freshness and quality.

How long can I store leftover soup dumplings in the fridge?
You can store leftover savory dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze the dumplings, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! Freeze unsteamed dumplings on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, steam them straight from the freezer for about 12-15 minutes until heated through. This helps retain their delightful moisture!

What if my broth isn’t thickening properly?
If your broth isn’t becoming thick enough when cooled, it might be due to the gelatin not being completely dissolved. To ensure this doesn’t happen, whisk the gelatin into warm broth vigorously until fully incorporated and there are no clumps. Always measure the gelatin accurately, as too little can affect the texture.

Are these dumplings suitable for someone with gluten intolerance?
Not quite, as traditional gow gee or gyoza wrappers contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free dumpling wrappers, which are widely available in stores. Just ensure the filling ingredients are gluten-free as well to accommodate dietary needs.

What’s the best way to serve these dumplings?
Serving your savory Din Tai Fung soup dumplings with a drizzle of soy sauce and a dash of chili oil is a must! Add some fresh ginger on top for an extra zing. Pair them with a cucumber salad or steamed bok choy for a refreshing balance. Enjoy!