Video by Jessica Leibowitz
Xiao long bao—also known as soup dumplings—are the best dumplings around because they are made to be truly savored. When you open one, the steaming hot interior reveals a delicious broth and a succulent, tender meat filling.
You must proceed carefully, or else you'll lose the precious broth. However, you don't want to burn your tongue. Some people may bite off the top or break the top open to let a little steam out before taking a sip of broth. It is critical that you have a spoon and/or bowl situated beneath your dumpling before attempting to eat it.
Since soup dumplings are a Shanghainese dish (and many Shanghainese dishes are enhanced by adding vinegar), I think they taste best with vinegar cutting the richness of the broth.
If you're hankering for xiao long bao now, here are some excellent suggestions.
