Quick Answer
Xiao Long Bao (XLB), also known as soup dumplings, are delicate steamed dumplings filled with seasoned meat and rich, savory broth. As they steam, the broth stays sealed inside the thin wrapper, creating the signature burst of flavor in every bite. Originally from Shanghai, China, Xiao Long Bao are the signature dish at Ugly Dumpling, where they’re handmade fresh daily in our Bao Lab.
What Does Xiao Long Bao Mean?
Xiao Long Bao (小笼包) literally translates to “small basket bun.” The name comes from the bamboo baskets traditionally used to steam and serve them. While they’re often called soup dumplings in English, the soup isn’t added after cooking, it’s created inside the dumpling as it steams.
Where Did Xiao Long Bao Originate?
Xiao Long Bao originated in Shanghai’s Nanxiang district during the late 1800s. The dish became famous for its unique cooking method: rich broth is simmered, chilled into a gelatin, mixed with seasoned meat, and wrapped inside a delicate dough. As the dumplings steam, the gelatin melts back into flavorful broth, creating the signature soup-filled center.
Today, Xiao Long Bao has become one of the world’s most celebrated Chinese dishes, and at Ugly Dumpling, we continue that tradition by making every dumpling fresh each day.
How Are Xiao Long Bao Made?
Every basket of Xiao Long Bao begins with a careful, handcrafted process.
First, our chefs prepare a rich broth that’s slowly simmered before being chilled into a delicate jelly. That broth is mixed with seasoned meat filling, then wrapped inside an ultra-thin dough wrapper that’s rolled by hand. Each dumpling is carefully pleated and sealed before being steamed in traditional bamboo baskets until the broth becomes hot, rich, and perfectly sip-worthy.
At Ugly Dumpling, every Xiao Long Bao is made fresh daily in our Bao Lab.
Xiao Long Bao vs. Regular Dumplings
While many Chinese dumplings are filled with meat and vegetables, Xiao Long Bao are unique because they’re filled with both meat and broth.
The thin wrapper seals everything inside, allowing the broth to develop as the dumpling steams. The result is a lighter, more delicate dumpling with a rich, flavorful soup hidden inside every bite.
Unlike potstickers or boiled dumplings, Xiao Long Bao are always steamed to preserve their delicate texture.
How Do You Eat Xiao Long Bao?
If it’s your first time trying soup dumplings, here’s the traditional way to enjoy them:
- Gently lift the dumpling by the pleated top with your chopsticks.
- Place it onto a soup spoon.
- Take a small bite to release the hot broth.
- Sip the broth from the spoon.
- Enjoy the rest of the dumpling in one or two bites.
- Add fresh ginger and black vinegar for a classic finishing touch.
Pro tip: The broth inside is extremely hot when freshly steamed, so let it cool for a moment before taking your first sip.
Xiao Long Bao Flavors at Ugly Dumpling
Whether you’re trying soup dumplings for the first time or you’re already a fan, Ugly Dumpling offers several handmade varieties, including:
- Original Pork
- Truffle & Pork
- Chicken & Ginger
- Shrimp
Each order includes six handcrafted dumplings, folded and steamed fresh daily.
Made Fresh Every Day in Our Bao Lab
One thing that makes Ugly Dumpling different is our in-house Bao Lab. Instead of relying on frozen products, our skilled dumpling makers prepare Xiao Long Bao fresh every day using traditional techniques. At many locations, guests can even watch the folding process as each dumpling is carefully handcrafted before it’s steamed to order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Xiao Long Bao the same as dim sum?
Not exactly. Xiao Long Bao is one type of dim sum. Dim sum refers to a wide variety of small Chinese dishes, including dumplings, buns, rolls, and other shareable favorites.
Are Xiao Long Bao gluten-free?
Traditional Xiao Long Bao wrappers are made with wheat flour, so they are not gluten-free. If you have dietary restrictions, please check with your local Ugly Dumpling for available options.
What do Xiao Long Bao taste like?
Xiao Long Bao have a delicate wrapper, savory seasoned filling, and rich broth with notes of ginger and sesame. The combination creates a warm, comforting bite that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Where can I find Xiao Long Bao near me?
Ugly Dumpling serves handmade Xiao Long Bao at locations across the Northeast and beyond. Visit our Locations page to find the restaurant nearest you, place an online order, or learn more about catering and group dining.
Why are soup dumplings so popular?
Soup dumplings combine delicate handmade wrappers, flavorful fillings, and rich broth in one bite, making them one of the most iconic dishes in Chinese cuisine. Their popularity continues to grow as more diners discover authentic Xiao Long Bao made fresh every day.
