Shanghai:Soup Dumpling Making in Shikumen New Style Linong

Shanghai’s soup dumpling tradition is a culinary art form that captivates food lovers worldwide. In the heart of the city’s historic Shikumen-style Linong neighborhoods, a hands-on class led by an expert chef promises to unveil the secrets behind crafting the perfect xiao long bao. From preparing the delicate dough to shaping the intricate wrappers and seasoning the savory filling, you will embark on a delectable journey that not only satisfies the palate but also offers insights into Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the artistry and time-honored techniques that make these steaming pockets of delight a quintessential part of the city’s gastronomic landscape.

Key Points

• Hands-on soup dumpling making experience led by a Dim Sum chef in a Shikumen new style linong setting in Shanghai.
• Participants learn the traditional pleating technique and craft savory soup dumplings (xiao long bao) from scratch.
• Includes a fusion cooking activity where leftover dumpling wrappers are transformed into crispy pizza bases.
• Opportunity to gain cultural insights into the significance and history of soup dumplings in Shanghainese cuisine.
• The experience caters to a range of participants, but is not suitable for wheelchair users, vegans, or vegetarians.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

Participants embark on a 2.5-hour soup dumpling making experience led by Dim Sum chef, Yin.

This hands-on course allows guests to learn the art of crafting the beloved xiao long bao. The experience costs from Kč2,484 per person and includes all necessary ingredients, tools, and multilingual support.

Participants can choose from instruction in English, Chinese, or Japanese. A private group option is also available.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The course isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, vegans, or vegetarians.

Dough Making Process

The budding chefs dive right into the dough-making process, meticulously blending the flour, water, and other key ingredients under Chef Yin’s watchful eye.

With a keen focus, they knead the mixture until it transforms into a smooth, elastic ball. Chef Yin provides guidance, ensuring the dough has the perfect texture and consistency.

This hands-on session allows participants to understand the importance of precise measurements and technique in crafting the base for the soup dumplings.

As the dough takes shape, the room fills with anticipation, setting the stage for the next stages of the dumpling-making journey.

Wrapper Crafting Technique

With deft hands, the chefs-in-training roll and cut the dough into thin, round wrappers under Chef Yin’s watchful guidance. Using a wooden rolling pin, they carefully stretch and shape the dough, aiming for an even thickness throughout. The goal is to create delicate, translucent wrappers that will showcase the savory soup filling.

Technique	Importance	Tips
Rolling	Evenly distributes the dough	Apply gentle, even pressure
Cutting	Ensures uniform wrappers	Use a sharp knife or circular cutter
Shaping	Prepares wrappers for pleating	Maintain round, smooth edges

Once the wrappers are ready, the class moves on to the filling preparation and the art of shaping the dumplings.

Filling Preparation Steps

After mastering the art of wrapper making, the class moves on to the filling preparation.

Chef Yin demonstrates the process of creating the savory soup dumpling filling. Participants learn to mix ground pork, shrimp, and a gelatinized broth to achieve the perfect consistency.

The broth, made from chicken and pork bones, is simmered until it becomes aspic-like, ensuring the filling remains moist and flavorful when the dumplings are steamed.

Yin guides the group through seasoning the filling with soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper, emphasizing the importance of balancing the flavors.

With Yin’s expertise, the class confidently prepares the filling, ready to assemble the iconic Shanghai soup dumplings.

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Shaping Dumplings Masterclass

Mastering the intricate art of shaping dumplings takes center stage as Chef Yin expertly demonstrates the traditional pleating technique.

Participants learn to pinch, pleat, and seal the delicate wrappers, creating the signature crescent-shaped soup dumplings. With Chef Yin’s guidance, they deftly shape the dumplings, ensuring perfect seals that will hold the savory broth within.

This hands-on session allows students to hone their dumpling-crafting skills, transforming simple rounds of dough into beautifully pleated works of edible art.

The satisfying snap of the wrapper and the burst of flavor upon the first bite make this technique a true highlight of the soup dumpling making experience.

Dumpling Wrapper Pizza Creation

Creativity abounds as participants transform leftover dumpling wrappers into crispy, customizable pizza bases. Chef Yin guides the group through this innovative segment, encouraging them to unleash their culinary imagination. Participants select from an array of tasty toppings, meticulously arranging them atop the delicate wrapper-turned-pizza crust. The result is a unique fusion of Chinese and Italian flavors, a testament to the versatility of these humble dough rounds. As the pizzas bake, the aroma fills the air, whetting appetites for the final tasting. This hands-on experience not only yields delicious treats but also sparks a newfound appreciation for the humble dumpling wrapper.

Topping Options	Vegetarian	Non-Vegetarian
Mushrooms	✓	✓
Bell Peppers	✓	✓
Onions	✓	✓
Pepperoni	–	✓
Bacon	–	✓
Chicken	–	✓

Cooking and Tasting Dumplings

With the innovative pizza-making complete, attention now turns to the main event – the steaming and savoring of the handcrafted soup dumplings.

Chef Yin guides participants through the delicate process, carefully placing the pleated dumplings into the steamer. As the bamboo baskets fill with billowing steam, an enticing aroma fills the air.

Finally, the moment of truth arrives. Participants eagerly pick up the dumplings, taking care not to rupture the thin, translucent wrappers. With the first bite, a burst of savory, soup-filled delight erupts in the mouth.

The experience offers:

1. Authentic flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine.
2. Appreciation for the skill and precision required.
3. Insight into the cultural significance of soup dumplings.
4. Newfound confidence in crafting dumplings at home.

Cultural Insights and Q&A

Chef Yin provides insights into the cultural significance of soup dumplings during this experience. The chef offers an overview of the rich history and tradition behind this iconic Chinese dish.

Soup dumplings, or xiao long bao, have been a beloved delicacy for centuries, originally served in the imperial courts. Yin explains their importance in Shanghainese cuisine, often enjoyed during festive gatherings and family dinners.

Participants also have the chance to ask the expert questions, gaining deeper appreciation for the artistry and techniques involved in crafting the perfect soup-filled dumpling.

With the recipe handouts, they can continue exploring this culinary tradition at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Ingredients to Suit My Dietary Requirements?

Participants can likely modify the ingredients to accommodate dietary needs, though variations may impact the traditional soup dumpling experience. It’s best to discuss any specific requirements with the chef prior to booking the activity.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Private Option?

The private group option doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Participants can book a private session tailored to their preferences and dietary needs, subject to the chef’s availability.

Will I Receive a Certificate of Completion After the Course?

Participants do not receive a certificate of completion after the soup dumpling making course. The course focuses on hands-on instruction and practice rather than issuing formal credentials.

Can I Take the Leftover Dumplings Home With Me?

Participants can’t take leftover dumplings home, as the course focuses on the dumpling-making process. However, you’ll get to enjoy the dumplings you’ve prepared during the session as part of the overall experience.

Is There Any Parking Available at the Venue?

The course venue doesn’t offer dedicated parking. However, there are public parking lots nearby that participants can use. The host can provide more details on the nearest parking options upon request.

The Sum Up

Participants enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Shanghai by learning the intricate art of crafting xiao long bao. Under the guidance of Chef Yin, they master the dough-making, wrapper-shaping, and filling-preparation techniques, culminating in the creation of delectable dumplings. This hands-on experience not only satisfies the palate but also provides valuable insights into the traditions and flavors that define Shanghainese cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here: