Eating dumplings can vary depending on their type, but a common and recommended method, especially for soup dumplings (like Xiaolongbao), involves carefully accessing the delicious broth within before consuming the rest.
A Recommended Method for Soup Dumplings
Soup dumplings are unique because they contain a hot, flavorful broth inside along with the filling. Simply biting into a whole hot soup dumpling can result in the hot soup splashing out and potentially burning you. Therefore, a specific technique is often used to enjoy them safely and fully.
Step-by-Step Guide for Eating Soup Dumplings
Based on common practice and methods demonstrated, one effective way to eat a soup dumpling is:
- Pick up the dumpling: Carefully lift the dumpling, often using chopsticks or a spoon. Soup dumplings are delicate, so handling them gently is important.
- Bite the side: Gently bite a small hole or slit into the side of the dumpling wrapper. This provides an opening to access the soup.
- Drink the soup: Slowly and carefully sip the hot broth from the opening you created. This allows you to enjoy the soup first and cools the rest of the dumpling.
- Eat the rest: Once the soup has been consumed, you can then eat the remaining dumpling, which consists of the wrapper and the meat or vegetable filling.
This method ensures you savor the rich soup and avoid potential burns from the hot liquid.
Note: While this method is particularly popular for soup dumplings, other types of dumplings (like pan-fried guo tie or boiled jiaozi) are typically eaten in one or two bites, often dipped in a sauce.
