2.5hrs Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class: Xiaolongbao Soup Dumplings

Mastering the art of xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, is no easy feat. But with a 2.5-hour Chinese kitchen cooking class in Shanghai, you’ll have the chance to learn the secrets behind these delectable morsels. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll dive into the intricacies of preparing the perfect dough and crafting flavorful fillings, all while exploring the nuances of steaming and pan-frying techniques. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this hands-on experience promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with the skills to recreate these authentic dumplings at home. Sounds like the culinary adventure you’ve been craving, doesn’t it?

Good To Know

• A 2.5-hour class in Shanghai teaching participants the techniques to prepare authentic Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), including dough making and filling preparation.
• Hands-on experience in the class covers steaming and pan-frying cooking methods to ensure participants can replicate the dish at home.
• Limited class size of 15 participants maximum allows for personalized attention from the instructors.
• The class provides a comprehensive recipe with detailed instructions for participants to take home and continue their soup dumpling journey.
• Dietary accommodations, such as vegan and vegetarian options, are available upon request to ensure an inclusive learning experience.

Class Description

The Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class offers participants the opportunity to master the art of making Xiaolongbao, the renowned soup dumplings.

This 2.5-hour class, held in a small group setting in Shanghai, China, promises an immersive experience. Learners will discover the secrets to crafting the perfect dough and fillings, infused with fragrant Chinese spices.

They’ll then cook the dumplings in two traditional methods: steaming and pan-frying. The class includes a take-home recipe, and vegan/vegetarian options are available upon request.

Complementary tea is provided, enhancing the cultural learning experience. With a maximum of 15 participants, the class ensures personalized attention and an engaging hands-on journey into the world of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Dough and Fillings

Crafting the dough and flavourful fillings lies at the heart of the Xiaolongbao-making process. During the class, participants learn to mix and knead the dough using Chinese spices, creating a supple, pliable texture. The fillings are equally important, blending minced pork, shrimp, or a vegetarian option with aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic, and scallions.

Dough Ingredients	Filling Ingredients
All-purpose flour	Minced pork
Warm water	Shrimp (optional)
Salt	Ginger, garlic, scallions

The perfect balance of these components is key to achieving the signature juicy and flavorful Xiaolongbao. Participants gain hands-on experience in crafting both the dough and fillings, ensuring they leave the class with the skills to recreate these delectable soup dumplings at home.

Cooking Techniques

With the dough and fillings prepared, participants move on to the art of cooking the Xiaolongbao.

First, they learn to delicately arrange the dumplings in a bamboo steamer, ensuring they don’t stick together.

The class then covers the technique of pan-frying the dumplings, resulting in a crispy bottom and juicy interior.

Instructors demonstrate how to control the heat and timing to achieve the perfect texture.

Throughout the process, participants receive guidance on identifying the optimal cooking doneness, indicated by the translucent wrapper and hot, savory broth within.

This hands-on experience allows participants to master the essential skills needed to recreate authentic Xiaolongbao at home.

Recipe to Take Home

Participants depart the class armed with a comprehensive recipe, carefully crafted by the experienced instructors.

The recipe provides step-by-step instructions on how to prepare the delectable Xiaolongbao at home. It covers the intricate process of making the dough, from kneading the ingredients to the precise thickness required.

The filling recipe blends fragrant Chinese spices, creating a flavor-packed center. The instructions detail the two cooking methods – steaming and pan-frying – allowing home cooks to recreate the restaurant-quality dumplings.

With clear measurements and detailed guidance, this take-home recipe empowers participants to continue their Xiaolongbao journey, sharing the authentic flavors of Shanghai with family and friends.

Dietary Options

Does the cooking class accommodate dietary preferences?

Yes, the class offers vegan and vegetarian options upon request. This allows participants with specialized diets to fully enjoy the soup dumpling-making experience.

The instructors are knowledgeable and can easily modify the fillings to suit these dietary needs. Whether you prefer a plant-based or meat-based dumpling, the class ensures everyone can participate and savor the authentic flavors of Xiaolongbao.

This inclusive approach enhances the overall learning experience, allowing all students to enjoy the art of traditional Chinese cuisine.

Meeting Location

The meeting location for the Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class is at the cooking studio on the second floor of Building 17, Alley 190, Si Wei Village, Guangyuan Road, in the Xuhui District of Shanghai.

The studio is easily accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly, and is located near public transportation options.

For participants’ convenience, hotel pickup and drop-off services are available.

The class is designed to accommodate a maximum of 15 attendees, fostering a small-group learning environment that enhances the overall experience.

Transportation and Accessibility

How accessible is the meeting location for the Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class?

The cooking studio is located at 2F, Building 17, Alley 190, Si Wei Village, Guangyuan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai.

The studio isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are available for those who need assistance getting to the class.

The class is suitable for a wide age range, from 3 to 100 years old, with children under 3 able to attend for free.

While the studio may not be the most accessible venue, the class organizers have made efforts to accommodate participants’ transportation needs.

Pricing and Booking

The cooking class starts at $98.88 per person, with pricing that varies depending on group size.

Guests can expect a non-refundable fee upon booking, which is confirmed immediately. Due to the class’s popularity and limited availability, early booking is highly recommended.

While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Participants can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off services if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Get to Eat the Dumplings We Make?

Yes, participants get to enjoy the Xiaolongbao soup dumplings they make during the class. The class includes cooking the dumplings in two different ways – steamed and pan-fried – and then savoring the final results.

What Is the Dress Code for the Class?

The cooking class has a casual, relaxed dress code. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for the kitchen environment. There’s no need for formal attire, as the focus is on the hands-on cooking experience.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Class?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available for participants during the cooking class. The class takes place in a dedicated cooking studio, which includes accessible restrooms for the convenience of all attendees.

Can I Bring My Own Ingredients to the Class?

Participants cannot bring their own ingredients to the class. The cooking class provides all the necessary ingredients and equipment needed to learn how to make authentic Xiaolongbao soup dumplings. Any special dietary requests can be accommodated upon advance notice.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there’s a group booking discount. For larger groups of 10 or more participants, the price per person is discounted by 15%. Early reservations are recommended as class sizes are limited.

Sum Up

Set out on a culinary adventure and master the art of making authentic Xiaolongbao in this hands-on Chinese cooking class. With personalized guidance, you’ll learn to craft the perfect dough and flavorful fillings, then explore steaming and pan-frying techniques. Depart with newfound skills and a recipe to recreate these beloved soup dumplings at home. Dietary options ensure an inclusive, enjoyable experience for all.