How To Elevate The Texture Of Trader Joe's Soup Dumplings

For a dish that's as cute as it is flavorful, look no further than soup dumplings.

A Chinese classic, soup dumplings, or Xiao Long Bao, have been enjoyed globally since they were (likely) first sold by vendors in Shanghai during the 19th century. Out of all of the countless culinary feats of Chinese cuisine, soup dumplings are among the most cherished, both in their original home and all around the world. And they've certainly earned their affection — soup dumplings are one of those dishes that offer so much warmth and comfort in such a simple form. Each of these soft, but sturdy, dough buns encase steaming hot broth, tender meat and vegetables, and a whole lot of joy.

If there exists a way to make soup dumplings more perfect than they already are, one TikToker may have discovered it. And to our luck, they have so kindly shared that discovery.

With the soup dumpling craze having infiltrated the United States, consumers can easily find these delectable dough bites on restaurant menus or in the freezer aisles of their local grocery stores. Never one to miss out on purchaser preferences, Trader Joe's offers a rendition of traditional chicken soup dumplings that's earned fan-favorite status.

In a November 2022 TikTok video, user Talia Heskett shares a two-ingredient comfort meal, both of which can be found at Trader Joe's. The main star, of course, is the Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings, but the other is a fan-favorite, too: Crunchy Chili Onion. Made with olive oil, dried onion, and garlic, the condiment adds the perfect amount of crunch, along with robust umami flavor, to the soup dumplings.

To elevate the frozen soup dumplings even more, Whisk suggests crisping the bottoms in a pan with a bit of flour and rice vinegar.

While Talia Heskett's TikTok video refers only to the steamed chicken soup dumplings, Trader Joe's shoppers may also be inclined to try spooning the Crunchy Chili Onion onto the store's newest dumpling debut: steamed pork and ginger soup dumplings. This meal idea is not only full of mouthwatering flavors and textures, but it also comes together in mere minutes. 

Of course, soup dumpling enthusiasts may prefer to prepare the dumplings more traditionally by steaming them in a bamboo steamer basket. In all fairness, though, popping them in the microwave creates an alternative for those without a proper basket on hand, and it may be more convenient in a pinch than making the dumplings from scratch or ordering them at a restaurant.

No matter how you enjoy your soup dumplings, don't forget to eat with caution — the contents of those dumplings are sure to be hot.