Dumplings Near Me: Xiao Long Bao and Sheng Jian Bao

Did you know that there are tons of different options when it comes to dumplings near me? Have you sampled any truly authentic representations of Chinese cuisine, rather than the Americanized version?

Well, there's no time like right now to try out some great new types of dumplings. Let's go through everything you need to know about xiao long bao and sheng jian bao.

Xiao Long Bao: Learning About Soup Dumplings

Xiao long bao is a variety of steamed bun that was first created in China's Jiangsu province. The name comes from the Mandarin Chinese term for little basket dumpling. In Shanghai, these dumplings are usually called xiao long mantou (meaning steamed bun) instead, to avoid confusion with other forms of dumplings.

They are related to guantangbao dumplings, from the Hanan region. There are different types of xiao long bao, and the distinction is often related to the leavening of the dough that the dumplings are made with and the area of the country that the particular type of xiao long bao originated from. 

Because xiao long bao have thinner skin than other types of dumplings, they can be a little difficult to eat. Classically, this form of dumpling is filled with meat and a soup-filling, but the filling can be swapped with just about anything, including crab meat or vegetables.

Xiao long bao are juicier than other related varieties of dumplings and are usually made to be larger and slightly flatter. They're distinctive because of their crimped top, which makes them easier to recognize if you’re choosing from other styles of dumplings. Xiao long bao are usually served dim sum style, as a snack, which makes them a fun treat. 

And, it's not as complicated as you think to properly cook xiao long bao. You just need to make sure that you've properly read the instructions. And, make sure you've chosen a delicious and high-quality dumpling to get you started.

Eating Your Xiao Long Bao Safely

Of course, you need to be careful when you eat these dumplings. That way, you won't accidentally burn yourself!

First, bite open the dumpling while it's carefully balanced on your spoon. You'll want to make a small hole, to control the flow of the soup and to make sure that you don't accidentally spill soup on your face.

Then, slurp out the soup. Make sure that you don't burn yourself on the delicious inside, either! You can blow on the inside of the dumplings first, to cool them down and make it safer for you to eat. 

Make sure you have plenty of delicious sauces to sample when you're trying out xiao long bao. Umami, vinegar, or spicy sauces are all great options to try out. 

Clearly, xiao long bao can be a tasty treat when it comes to dumplings. But what other options do you have when it comes to "Chinese dumplings near me?"

Sheng Jian Bao: A Delicious Breakfast Treat

Sheng Jian Bao are one of the most popular types of soup dumplings out there on the market. If you're looking for fried soup dumplings, you'll definitely want to try these. 

These pork-based dumplings are on the smaller size, and they're often found when you're wandering around Shanghai. These dumplings are also very important to the history of cuisine in Shanghai, partially because of how ubiquitous they are. 

These dumplings date all the way back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, so they're a long-standing tradition in Shanghai food culture.

Sheng jian bao are similar to xiao long bao, but they are made with a thicker type of dough. While sheng jian bao are usually stuffed primarily with pork, there are also varieties made with chicken, prawns, or crab meat. They are often garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for even more flavor.

When you're preparing these dumplings at home, you'll want to be very careful to make sure that the bottoms are properly golden brown, but not too overdone as to be burnt or stuck to the pan. Make sure you cook them in a shallow pan that's warm enough to get them hot.

With the right equipment and the right type of dumplings, you'll be dining on a delicious new snack in no time. 

Comparing Shen Jian Bao and Xiao Long Bao

Clearly, there are some big differences between xiao long bao and sheng jian bao. There are more that you may not have thought of, however. The major difference between xiao long bao and sheng jian bao is that, naturally, sheng jian bao are fried and xiao long bao are steamed.

Sheng jian bao tend to stay hotter for longer than xiao long bao, so if you're not planning on eating your dumplings right away then they can sometimes be a more convenient option. Sheng jian bao also usually tends to be softer than other sorts of soup dumplings. 

"Dumplings Near Me?" Just The Start

Xiao long bao and sheng jian bao can get you started when it comes to dumplings near me, but they're just the beginning. You've got tons of options in your area when it comes to honest representations of Chinese food.