There’s something utterly delightful about a warm bowl of soup dumplings, especially when they’re bursting with savory goodness. I remember the first time I tasted a Din Tai Fung soup dumpling; the layers of delicate dough wrapped around flavorful broth made me feel as if I had discovered a secret treasure. After multiple attempts (and a few delicious mishaps!), I finally created a version right in my home kitchen—a comforting dupe that’s easier to whip up than you’d imagine.
This recipe invites you to enjoy the art of dumpling making without the usual fuss. With tender pork mince and a cleverly crafted broth that transforms into jelly, these dumplings promise to impress family and friends alike. Say goodbye to the fast food routine and hello to a homemade experience that warms the heart and tantalizes your taste buds. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, these scrumptious soup dumplings will have everyone coming back for more. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Why will you love this Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of savory pork and rich broth delivers a taste explosion in every bite, ensuring that every dumpling is a delight.
Easy to master: While restaurant-quality dumplings can be intimidating, this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps that anyone can follow.
Crowd-pleasing treat: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, these dumplings will be the star of your meal, drawing oohs and aahs with each deliciously constructed bite.
Versatile filling: You can customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices, making each batch uniquely yours.
Quick satisfaction: With just 30 minutes of cook time, plus chilling, you’ll have fresh, gourmet dumplings ready in no time—ideal for a busy weeknight!
Get the best of both worlds: The skill of making dumplings at home without the hassle—it’s a rewarding cooking experience that you’ll love sharing.
Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe Ingredients
For the Broth
- Chicken wings – 400 g; these create a rich base for your soup dumpling filling.
- Dried shiitake mushroom – 1; adds an earthy depth and umami flavor to the broth.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, lightly bruised; infuses your broth with aromatic goodness.
- Ginger – 2 slices; enhances warmth and spice, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Spring onions – 2, cut into batons; add a fresh, zesty note to the mix.
- Soy sauce – 1 tbsp, plus extra to serve; lends a savory depth while seasoning the broth.
- Shaoxing wine – 1 tbsp; brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to the broth.
- Water – 3 cups; the main component, creating the liquid base of your soup.
- Sea salt – 1 tsp; enhances all the flavors in your broth.
- Powdered gelatin – 8 g; this magical ingredient will transform your broth into a flavorful jelly.
For the Filling
- Pork mince – 400 g; the star of your dumplings, providing juicy, savory bites.
- Finely chopped spring onion – ¼ cup; brightens the filling with its fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Shaoxing wine – 1 tbsp; the perfect complement to the pork, enhancing its richness.
- Sesame oil – 2 tsp; adds a nutty flavor that elevates the filling.
- Sea salt – 1 tsp; ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Ground black pepper – ½ tsp; adds a hint of spice for a delightful kick.
For the Dumplings
- Gow gee or gyoza wrappers – 40; these thin wrappers encase your delicious filling and broth.
Get ready to savor every bite of your homemade Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe!
How to Make Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe
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Combine Ingredients: In a 4-cup microwave-safe container, place chicken wings, shiitake mushroom, garlic, ginger, spring onions, soy sauce, shaoxing wine, water, and salt. Microwave on high for 30 minutes until everything is well infused.
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Strain and Gelatinize: Strain the broth into a clean bowl, discarding the solids. While warm, sprinkle gelatin over the broth’s surface and whisk until fully dissolved. Pour into a tray to set about 1 cm deep, then chill in the fridge for 1 hour until firm.
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Cube the Jelly: Once the jelly is set, cut it into small cubes, about 1 cm. These will provide that delightful burst of flavor in each dumpling.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, add pork mince, broth jelly cubes, chopped spring onion, shaoxing wine, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, forming a savory filling.
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Wrap Dumplings: Place a wrapper in your palm and add about half a heaped teaspoon of filling in the center. Moisten the edges with a bit of water, then pleat and twist the top to seal. Arrange on a tray lined with baking paper. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
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Steam Dumplings: Line an aluminum tray with steam liners. Arrange 20 dumplings and steam for 12 minutes. Carefully transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the rest of the dumplings.
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Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle with soy sauce, add a spoonful of chili oil, and top with julienned ginger. Enjoy immediately while piping hot for the best experience!
Optional: For an extra kick, add chopped cilantro as a garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe?
Transform your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance every bite and make meal time truly memorable.
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Soy Sauce & Chili Oil: These classic condiments elevate the flavors of the dumplings while adding a kick of spice for adventurous eaters.
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Steamed Bok Choy: This tender, vibrant green brings a fresh crunch that beautifully balances the richness of the dumplings.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers a cool and tangy contrast, helping to cleanse the palate between those savory bites.
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Chicken or Pork Wontons: If you can’t get enough dumplings, these similarly styled wontons will make a comforting addition to your meal. They share similar flavors and textures, making them a perfect match.
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Sesame Noodles: These warm noodles drizzled in sesame sauce provide a satisfying bite, complementing the dumplings’ flavor profile.
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Light Ginger Tea: A warm, soothing drink that lifts the palate, inviting deeper enjoyment of those rich, savory dumplings.
Indulge in these pairings to create a delightful meal that leaves everyone smiling, perfectly centered around your homemade Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe!
Make Ahead Options
These Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the broth and set the gelatin up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them to maintain their fresh flavor and prevent spoilage. Additionally, you can mix the filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the dumplings, simply assemble them using the prepped wrappers and filling, then steam for about 12 minutes. By prepping these components ahead of time, you’ll save valuable minutes during busy weeknights, ensuring that these delightful dumplings are just as delicious and satisfying as if made fresh that day!
Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe Variations
Get creative with these flavorful twists that will elevate your soup dumplings to another level of deliciousness!
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Vegetarian Version: Replace pork mince with finely chopped mushrooms and diced firm tofu for a plant-based filling.
This swap keeps the texture satisfying and bursting with umami flavor, perfect for any vegetarian feast. -
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha directly into the filling mixture.
This spicy twist adds a delightful heat that will excite those who crave a little extra warmth in their dumplings. -
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle in some shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, into the pork filling.
Melted cheese oozing from your dumplings creates a comforting surprise in every bite, making them irresistible to cheese lovers. -
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for a burst of freshness.
The herbal note complements the savory flavors beautifully, giving your dumplings a fragrant lift. -
Seafood Twist: Swap out the pork mince for shrimp or fish, chopped finely to maintain a light texture.
This variation transforms your dumplings into ocean-inspired delicacies, perfect for seafood aficionados! -
Low-Carb Option: Use cabbage leaves instead of dumpling wrappers for a gluten-free, low-carb alternative.
This twist keeps the juicy filling intact while giving you a healthy, hearty bite perfect for any low-carb diet. -
Crispy Bottoms: Before steaming, lightly fry your dumplings in a non-stick pan until the bottoms are golden.
This creates a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender soup-filled interior, offering a satisfying crunch. -
Savory Broth Substitution: Experiment with different stocks, like beef or vegetable broth, for a unique taste.
Each broth provides a distinct flavor foundation, allowing you to customize your dumpling experience further.
Helpful Tricks for Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe
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Broth Quality: Use fresh chicken wings for a richer flavor. Avoid overcooking the broth in the microwave, as it can lose its essence.
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Jelly Mastery: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in warm broth to create a perfectly smooth jelly. If clumps appear, whisk vigorously to combine.
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Wrapper Care: Keep dumpling wrappers covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out, ensuring they are easy to seal.
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Filling Balance: Be cautious not to overfill the dumplings, as it could make sealing difficult and cause them to burst during steaming.
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Steaming Tip: Ensure dumplings have enough space in the steamer to avoid sticking together. Use parchment paper to give them a smooth surface.
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Serve Hot: Enjoy your Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe right away while they are hot for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe
Fridge: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze unsteamed dumplings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen dumplings, steam them directly from the freezer for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy them fresh and flavorful!
Wrap Carefully: If storing cooked dumplings, wrap them in parchment paper before placing them in the fridge or freezer to prevent them from sticking together.
Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for ones that are plump and have a nice sheen, free from any off odors. For the dried shiitake mushroom, ensure it’s firm and not brittle. Fresh garlic should be tight and firm, while ginger should feel smooth and have a spicy aroma. Look for spring onions that are vibrant and crispy without any wilting or dark spots.
What is the best way to store leftover dumplings?
Very! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. If you’ve made more than you can eat in that time, consider freezing them! This helps preserve their deliciousness for future enjoyment.
Can I freeze the dumplings? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze unsteamed dumplings, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid—this usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, steam them straight from the freezer for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my dumpling dough keeps tearing while wrapping?
Oh no! If your dumpling dough is tearing, it might be a sign of dryness. Always keep your wrappers covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out, making them easier to handle and seal. If that doesn’t help, try using a little bit more water to moisten the edges before sealing; this can create a better bond and reduce tearing.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, always double-check the ingredient labels, especially for the soy sauce, which may contain gluten. You can substitute it with a gluten-free variety if needed. Additionally, if making these dumplings for pets, avoid giving them any spices or ingredients like garlic or onions, as they can be harmful to them.
How long does the broth jelly need to set before using it in the filling?
Definitely! After you’ve whisked in the gelatin with the warm broth, pour it into a tray and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until firmly set. This jelly is crucial for the delicious burst of broth in each dumpling, so make sure it’s set well before mixing it with the other filling ingredients!
Savory Din Tai Fung Soup Dumpling Dupe You Can Master at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 4-cup microwave-safe container, place chicken wings, shiitake mushroom, garlic, ginger, spring onions, soy sauce, shaoxing wine, water, and salt. Microwave on high for 30 minutes until everything is well infused.
- Strain the broth into a clean bowl, discarding the solids. While warm, sprinkle gelatin over the broth's surface and whisk until fully dissolved. Pour into a tray to set about 1 cm deep, then chill in the fridge for 1 hour until firm.
- Once the jelly is set, cut it into small cubes, about 1 cm. These will provide that delightful burst of flavor in each dumpling.
- In a large bowl, add pork mince, broth jelly cubes, chopped spring onion, shaoxing wine, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, forming a savory filling.
- Place a wrapper in your palm and add about half a heaped teaspoon of filling in the center. Moisten the edges with a bit of water, then pleat and twist the top to seal. Arrange on a tray lined with baking paper. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Line an aluminum tray with steam liners. Arrange 20 dumplings and steam for 12 minutes. Carefully transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the rest of the dumplings.
- Drizzle with soy sauce, add a spoonful of chili oil, and top with julienned ginger. Enjoy immediately while piping hot for the best experience!