Are you a fan of Chinese cuisine? Have you tried xiao long bao? This delicious dumpling is a must-try dish in Singapore. Xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings, is a Chinese steamed bun filled with savory broth and meat. The dish originated in Shanghai and has become a popular dish worldwide.
Exploring Xiao Long Bao in Singapore is an exciting culinary adventure that you should not miss. This dish has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants in Singapore, from hawker stalls to upscale dining establishments. There are many variations of xiao long bao to choose from, ranging from traditional pork to modern fusion flavors. Whether you prefer your xiao long bao steamed or pan-fried, there is a restaurant in Singapore that caters to your taste.
Key Takeaways
- Xiao long bao is a Chinese steamed bun filled with savory broth and meat.
- Singapore has a wide variety of xiao long bao restaurants, from hawker stalls to upscale dining establishments.
- There are many variations of xiao long bao to choose from, ranging from traditional pork to modern fusion flavors.
Exploring Xiao Long Bao in Singapore
If you’re craving for some delicious Xiao Long Bao, Singapore has got you covered with its numerous restaurants and food stalls serving this delectable dish. Xiao Long Bao is a traditional Chinese steamed bun filled with savory pork or other meat and a flavorful broth. It is a popular dish in Singapore, and you can find it in many places across the city.
One of the most famous restaurants serving Xiao Long Bao in Singapore is Din Tai Fung. Their handmade dumplings are a must-try, and their signature dish is the pork Xiao Long Bao. However, if you want to explore other options, there are plenty of other places to try.
Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao is another popular restaurant that serves delicious Xiao Long Bao. They are known for their thin and delicate skin, which holds the broth and meat filling perfectly. The restaurant is located in Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, and it is a great place to grab a quick bite.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Paradise Dynasty is a great choice. They offer a wide variety of Xiao Long Bao flavors, including cheese, crab roe, and foie gras. The restaurant is located in ION Orchard, and it has a beautiful interior that adds to the dining experience.
Apart from these restaurants, there are many other places in Singapore where you can satisfy your cravings for Xiao Long Bao. Some other popular options include Swee Choon Dim Sum Restaurant, Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao, and Imperial Treasure Nan Bei Restaurant.
Overall, exploring Xiao Long Bao in Singapore is a must-do if you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a restaurant that serves your favorite kind of Xiao Long Bao.
History and Origin of Xiao Long Bao
You’re about to discover the fascinating history and origin of one of the most iconic Chinese dishes – Xiao Long Bao. This dish, also known as soup dumplings, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.
Xiao Long Bao is believed to have originated in the Jiangnan region of China, specifically in the city of Shanghai. During the late 1800s, Shanghai was a bustling city with a competitive food scene. It was during this time that a restaurant owner named Huang Mingxian invented the dish in an attempt to stand out from the crowd.
Originally called “little basket buns,” Xiao Long Bao quickly gained popularity in Shanghai and became a staple in the city’s food culture. The dish consists of a thin, delicate wrapper filled with a savory meat or vegetable filling and a rich broth. When steamed, the broth inside the dumpling turns into a delicious soup, making it a unique and flavorful dish.
While the exact origin of Xiao Long Bao is debated, some sources suggest that it may have originated in the town of Nanxiang, located on the outskirts of Shanghai. However, regardless of its origin, there’s no denying that Xiao Long Bao has become a beloved dish in China and around the world.
Today, Xiao Long Bao is enjoyed in restaurants all over the world, including Singapore. With its rich history and exquisite flavors, this dish is a testament to the beauty and diversity of Chinese cuisine.
The Art of Making Xiao Long Bao
If you’ve ever had a good xiao long bao, you know that these little soup dumplings are a true work of art. Making them requires a skilled hand, a lot of patience, and attention to detail.
One of the most important aspects of making xiao long bao is the dough. It needs to be just the right thickness, so that it’s not too thick and doughy, but also not so thin that it tears easily. The dough is usually made by hand, and then rolled out into thin circles using a rolling pin.
Once the dough is ready, it’s time to fill the dumplings with a mixture of minced pork, broth, and seasonings. The filling is carefully spooned into the center of each dough circle, and then the edges are pinched together to seal in the filling.
Next, the xiao long bao are placed in a bamboo basket and steamed until they’re cooked through. The bamboo basket is an important part of the process, as it allows the dumplings to steam evenly without getting soggy.
When the xiao long bao are ready, they’re served hot and fresh, with a side of soy sauce and vinegar for dipping. The best xiao long bao are made by hand, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
In summary, the art of making xiao long bao requires a skilled hand, attention to detail, and the use of traditional techniques. From the handmade dough to the bamboo basket used for steaming, every aspect of the process is important for creating the perfect soup dumpling.
Ingredients of Xiao Long Bao
If you are a fan of dumplings, then you must have tried Xiao Long Bao, the famous Chinese steamed soup dumplings. These dumplings are filled with seasoned minced pork, soup, and gelatin, which melts when steamed, creating a delicious and flavorful broth inside.
The traditional filling of Xiao Long Bao consists of minced pork, shredded ginger, and black vinegar. However, some restaurants add other ingredients to their dumplings to make them more unique and flavorful. For instance, some restaurants add crab roe, prawns, chicken, black truffle, and beef to their dumplings.
The broth inside the dumplings is made by simmering pork bones for hours until it becomes flavorful and rich. Vegetarian and seafood versions of Xiao Long Bao are also available, which use vegetable broth or seafood broth instead of pork broth.
The dough for the skin of the dumplings is made of flour, water, and sometimes a little bit of oil. The dough is rolled out into thin circles and filled with the meat mixture. The dumplings are then pinched together at the top to create a small opening, which allows the broth to seep out when the dumplings are steamed.
In conclusion, the ingredients of Xiao Long Bao are simple but carefully selected to create a delicious and unique flavor. The combination of minced meat, soup, and gelatin creates a burst of flavor in your mouth, making Xiao Long Bao a must-try dish for any dumpling lover.
Popular Xiao Long Bao Restaurants in Singapore
If you’re a fan of xiao long bao and looking for the best places to enjoy this delicious dish in Singapore, you’re in luck! There are numerous restaurants in Singapore that serve mouth-watering xiao long bao. Here are some of the most popular ones that you must try:
- Din Tai Fung: This Taiwanese restaurant chain is renowned for its xiao long bao. The dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth, and the skin is thin and delicate. Din Tai Fung has several branches in Singapore, including at Marina Bay Sands, Paragon, and Jewel Changi Airport.
- Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao: This restaurant is part of the Crystal Jade group, which is known for its quality Chinese cuisine. The xiao long bao here are filled with a generous amount of pork and a flavorful broth. The skin is slightly thicker than other places, but it’s still delicious. You can find Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao at several locations, including Holland Village, Suntec City, and VivoCity.
- Swee Choon Dim Sum Restaurant: This restaurant is a popular spot for dim sum lovers, and their xiao long bao are a must-try. The dumplings are filled with pork and a flavorful broth, and they’re served piping hot. Swee Choon Dim Sum Restaurant is located in Jalan Besar and is open 24 hours.
- Paradise Dynasty: This restaurant is part of the Paradise Group, and they serve colorful xiao long bao that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. The dumplings come in eight different flavors, including original, ginseng, and foie gras. Paradise Dynasty has several branches in Singapore, including at ION Orchard and Wisma Atria.
- Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao: This stall is located in the Chinatown Complex Food Centre and serves some of the best xiao long bao in Singapore. The dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth, and the skin is thin and delicate. Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao is a popular spot, so be prepared to wait in line.
- Dim Sum Haus: This restaurant in Jalan Besar serves delicious xiao long bao that are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth. The skin is thin and delicate, and the dumplings are served piping hot. Dim Sum Haus also serves other delicious dim sum dishes, including har gow and siew mai.
- Peach Garden: This restaurant chain serves Cantonese cuisine, and their xiao long bao are a must-try. The dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth, and the skin is thin and delicate. Peach Garden has several branches in Singapore, including at Chinatown Point and Changi Airport Terminal 2.
- You Peng Noodle Dumpling House: This stall in Chinatown Complex Food Centre serves delicious xiao long bao that are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth. The skin is thin and delicate, and the dumplings are served piping hot. You Peng Noodle Dumpling House is a popular spot, so be prepared to wait in line.
- Yechun Xiao Jiang Nan Restaurant: This restaurant in Jurong serves delicious xiao long bao that are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth. The skin is thin and delicate, and the dumplings are served piping hot. Yechun Xiao Jiang Nan Restaurant also serves other delicious Jiangnan-style dishes, including steamed fish and braised pork belly.
- Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao: This stall in Old Airport Road Food Centre serves delicious xiao long bao that are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth. The skin is thin and delicate, and the dumplings are served piping hot. Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao is a popular spot, so be prepared to wait in line.
These are just a few of the many places in Singapore where you can enjoy delicious xiao long bao. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pork dumplings or want to try something new, there’s a xiao long bao restaurant in Singapore that will satisfy your cravings.
Reviews and Ratings of Xiao Long Bao Restaurants
You are in luck if you are a fan of xiao long bao in Singapore! There are many restaurants that serve this delicious dish, and they all have their unique take on it. Here are some reviews and ratings of xiao long bao restaurants in Singapore:
Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao
This restaurant is located in the Chinatown Complex hawker center and is known for its affordable and delicious xiao long bao. Many customers have praised the thin and delicate skin of the dumplings, as well as the flavorful broth inside. Overall, this restaurant has received high ratings and positive reviews for its xiao long bao.
Hand in Hand Beijing Restaurant
Hand in Hand Beijing Restaurant is another popular spot for xiao long bao in Singapore. Customers have raved about the handmade dumplings, which have a smooth skin and a rich broth inside. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Beijing-style dishes, making it a great place to try a range of Chinese cuisine.
Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is a well-known chain restaurant that has locations all over the world, including several in Singapore. The restaurant is known for its high-quality xiao long bao, which are made with fresh ingredients and skillfully crafted by hand. Many customers have praised the consistency and quality of the dumplings, and the restaurant has received high ratings and positive reviews.
Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is another popular chain restaurant that serves xiao long bao in Singapore. Customers have praised the thin and delicate skin of the dumplings, as well as the flavorful broth inside. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Chinese dishes, making it a great place to try a range of cuisine.
Paradise Dynasty
Paradise Dynasty is a restaurant that specializes in xiao long bao and other Chinese delicacies. Customers have praised the colorful and flavorful dumplings, which come in a variety of flavors such as truffle and foie gras. The restaurant has received high ratings and positive reviews for its creative take on xiao long bao.
Overall, there are many great options for xiao long bao in Singapore. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern take on the dish, there is sure to be a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings.
The Price Range of Xiao Long Bao in Singapore
If you’re a fan of Xiao Long Bao, you’ll be pleased to know that they are available at a variety of price points in Singapore. The cost of a plate of Xiao Long Bao can vary depending on the restaurant, its location, and the quality of the dish.
In general, you can expect to pay around SGD 5-10 for a plate of Xiao Long Bao at a hawker centre or food court. These places offer affordable options for those on a budget, but don’t let the low prices fool you. Some of the best Xiao Long Bao in Singapore can be found at these locations.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of restaurants that serve Xiao Long Bao at higher prices. Expect to pay around SGD 10-20 for a plate of Xiao Long Bao at these establishments. These restaurants often offer higher-quality ingredients and a more refined dining experience.
Of course, the most famous Xiao Long Bao restaurant in Singapore is Din Tai Fung. Prices at this restaurant are on the higher end, with a plate of Xiao Long Bao costing around SGD 12. However, many people believe that the quality of the food justifies the price.
Overall, the price of Xiao Long Bao in Singapore is quite reasonable, and there are plenty of options available at different price points. Whether you’re looking for an affordable meal or a luxurious dining experience, you’re sure to find a restaurant that suits your needs.
Pairing Xiao Long Bao with Other Dishes and Drinks
You’ve got your steaming basket of Xiao Long Bao in front of you, but what should you pair it with? Here are some suggestions to elevate your experience:
Cooked Dishes
Xiao Long Bao is a staple of dim sum cuisine, but it can also be paired with other cooked dishes. Try pairing it with stir-fried vegetables, steamed scallops, or even a spicy mala dish for a contrast of flavors.
Mantou
Mantou, a type of Chinese steamed bun, is a great accompaniment to Xiao Long Bao. Dip it in the soup inside the dumpling for a burst of flavor.
Cross Street
If you’re in Singapore and looking for a place to enjoy Xiao Long Bao, check out Cross Street. This bustling street is home to many restaurants that serve this delicious dish.
Drinks
Pair your Xiao Long Bao with a refreshing drink. Try a cold beer or a hot cup of tea to balance out the flavors.
Frozen Xiao Long Bao
If you’re feeling adventurous, try frozen Xiao Long Bao. These dumplings can be steamed or pan-fried straight from the freezer, and make for a unique and tasty snack or appetizer.
Overall, there are many ways to pair Xiao Long Bao with other dishes and drinks. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!
Enjoying Xiao Long Bao with Friends and Family
Xiao Long Bao is a dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you are catching up over a meal, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a casual night out, this delicious delicacy is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
One of the best things about Xiao Long Bao is that it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether you prefer a cozy restaurant, a bustling food court, or a fancy hotel, there is a venue in Singapore that will cater to your needs.
When dining with friends and family, it is important to choose a venue that offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Look for a restaurant that has a relaxed ambiance, friendly staff, and a menu that is suitable for all tastes.
To make the most of your Xiao Long Bao experience, consider ordering a variety of flavors and fillings. Some popular options include pork, chicken, crab, and shrimp. Don’t forget to pair your meal with some refreshing drinks such as tea or beer.
Overall, Xiao Long Bao is a dish that is perfect for sharing with loved ones. With its delicious flavors, comforting textures, and social nature, it is a great way to bond with friends and family over a meal. So why not gather your loved ones and head out to one of Singapore’s many Xiao Long Bao restaurants today?
Xiao Long Bao Beyond Singapore
You may think that the best xiao long bao can only be found in Singapore, but that’s not entirely true. In fact, xiao long bao is a popular dish in other countries as well, such as Hong Kong and Taiwan.
If you’re ever in Hong Kong, be sure to check out Tim Ho Wan, a Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant that’s famous for its xiao long bao. Their version is made with a thin, delicate skin and filled with hot, savory broth and tender pork filling. It’s definitely worth the wait in line!
Another great spot to try xiao long bao in Hong Kong is Din Tai Fung, a Taiwanese chain that has locations all over the world. Their xiao long bao is consistently delicious, with a perfectly balanced filling and a thin, delicate skin.
In Taiwan, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Kao Chi, a restaurant that’s been serving up xiao long bao for over 70 years. Their version is made with a rich, flavorful broth and tender pork filling that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
No matter where you are in the world, xiao long bao is a dish that’s worth seeking out. Whether you’re in Singapore, Hong Kong, or Taiwan, you’re sure to find a delicious version that will leave you wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best xiao long bao in Singapore?
Singapore is known for its delicious food, and xiao long bao is no exception. There are many restaurants that offer this dish, but some of the best places to try it include Din Tai Fung, Paradise Dynasty, and Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao. These restaurants are known for their high-quality ingredients and skilled chefs, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best xiao long bao in Singapore.
What are some halal options for xiao long bao in Singapore?
If you’re looking for halal options for xiao long bao in Singapore, you’re in luck. There are several restaurants that offer this dish, including Crystal Jade Muslim Food, Din Tai Fung (Halal-certified outlets only), and Paradise Dynasty (Halal-certified outlets only). These restaurants use halal-certified ingredients and follow strict halal guidelines, so you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind.
Are there any restaurants that offer a xiao long bao buffet in Singapore?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Singapore that offer a xiao long bao buffet. One of the most popular options is the buffet at Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao, which offers a wide variety of dumplings and other Chinese dishes. Other options include Paradise Dynasty and Din Tai Fung, which also offer all-you-can-eat xiao long bao buffets.
Have you tried the giant xiao long bao in Singapore?
Yes, I have tried the giant xiao long bao in Singapore, and it’s definitely an experience worth trying. One of the most popular places to try this dish is at Nan Xiang Steamed Bun Restaurant, which offers a giant xiao long bao that’s filled with delicious soup and meat. Other restaurants that offer this dish include Din Tai Fung and Paradise Dynasty.
Is there a hawker centre that serves delicious xiao long bao in Singapore?
Yes, there are several hawker centres in Singapore that serve delicious xiao long bao. One of the most popular options is the Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, which is home to several stalls that offer this dish. Other hawker centres that offer xiao long bao include Tiong Bahru Market, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Maxwell Food Centre.
Can you recommend a good recipe for making xiao long bao at home?
If you’re looking to make xiao long bao at home, there are several good recipes available online. One of the most popular recipes is from the website China Sichuan Food, which offers a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make this dish. Other websites that offer good xiao long bao recipes include Rasa Malaysia and The Woks of Life.