Shanghainese soup dumplings, also known as Xiao Long Bao (XLB), are one of the most beloved dishes in Chinese cuisine. At Jack’s Bao in Monterey, CA, these delicate dumplings are crafted with traditional ingredients that create their signature juicy, flavorful bite. Whether you are a local food enthusiast or a visitor exploring Cannery Row, these dumplings offer an authentic taste of Shanghai right in Monterey.
But what exactly makes these dumplings so special? Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that define the perfect Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao (XLB) and why you should try them at Jack’s Bao Monterey.
The Essential Ingredients in Shanghainese Soup Dumplings
1. Dough Wrapper: The Delicate Exterior
The foundation of any good soup dumpling is its thin, yet sturdy dough wrapper. Made from a simple combination of:
- All-purpose flour
- Water
- A pinch of salt
This dough is kneaded until smooth, then rolled out into thin circles to ensure a silky texture that holds the soup and filling without breaking. The wrapper must be thin enough to become translucent when steamed, yet strong enough to contain the flavorful broth inside.
2. The Filling: Savory and Juicy Pork Mixture
The traditional filling of Xiao Long Bao consists of ground pork, which provides the rich, umami flavor that defines these dumplings. At Jack’s Bao Monterey, their Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao (XLB) is crafted with high-quality pork mixed with seasonings such as:
- Soy sauce for depth of flavor
- Shaoxing wine to enhance umami notes
- Ginger and garlic for an aromatic touch
- A hint of sugar to balance the savory elements
- White pepper for mild spice
The meat filling must be well-mixed and smooth to create a tender, juicy texture when steamed.
3. Gelatin-Rich Soup: The Secret to the Burst of Flavor
What makes soup dumplings unique is the pocket of hot, savory broth inside. This soup isn’t added as a liquid; instead, it comes from a gelatin-rich pork broth that turns into a solid gel when cooled. The key ingredients in this broth include:
- Pork bones slow-simmered for hours to extract collagen
- Ginger and scallions for added aroma
- Shaoxing wine to enhance the depth of flavor
Once the broth cools and solidifies, it is chopped into small cubes and mixed into the pork filling. During steaming, the heat melts the gelatin, creating a burst of soup inside the dumpling.
4. The Perfect Steaming Process
At Jack’s Bao Monterey, the Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao (XLB) is carefully placed in bamboo steamers lined with parchment paper. The steamers allow for:
- Even cooking that keeps the wrappers delicate and translucent
- Gentle heat distribution that melts the soup inside
- A fragrant aroma that enhances the dumpling’s overall flavor
Each batch is steamed just long enough for the soup to liquefy while keeping the wrapper intact, ensuring the perfect bite every time.
5. Accompaniments: The Final Touch
Shanghainese soup dumplings are traditionally served with a light dipping sauce and garnishes to complement their richness. At Jack’s Bao Monterey, you can customize your experience with sauces such as:
- Rice Vinegar for a tangy balance
- Spiced Vinegar for added depth
- Soy Sauce for umami richness
- Chili Sauce for a spicy kick
- Chinese Worcestershire Sauce for a bold, savory contrast
A classic way to enjoy these dumplings is by dipping them in spiced vinegar and topping them with thinly sliced ginger, which enhances their delicate flavors.
More Must-Try Dishes at Jack’s Bao Monterey
While Xiao Long Bao is a must-try, Jack’s Bao Monterey offers an array of other delicious items that showcase the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. Some standout menu items include:
Noodle Soups
- Spicy Ground Pork Noodle Soup – A flavorful and fiery option for spice lovers.
- Braised Beef Noodle Soup – Rich broth with tender beef and hand-pulled noodles.
- Pork Rib Noodle Soup – A hearty choice with fall-off-the-bone pork ribs.
- Veggie/Mushroom Noodle Soup – A great vegetarian-friendly option.
Wontons
- Fried Wontons – Crispy, golden dumplings filled with seasoned meat.
- Mini Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup – 15 bite-sized wontons in a delicious broth.
- Veggie and Pork Wonton Soup – A balanced mix of vegetables and pork.
- Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup – A classic favorite with a flavorful broth.
Bao Buns
- Steamed Pork Bao (3 pieces) – Soft, fluffy buns stuffed with juicy pork.
- Steamed Veggie Bao (3 pieces) – A delicious plant-based option.
Refreshing Beverages
- J-Milk Tea – A creamy and refreshing milk tea.
- Lychee Lemon Green Tea – A fruity and floral tea blend.
- White Jasmine and Rose Green Tea – A soothing, aromatic green tea.
- Pineapple Lemon-Grass Green Tea – A tropical and zesty infusion.
Conclusion
Shanghainese Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao (XLB) is a delicacy that requires precise techniques and quality ingredients to perfect. At Jack’s Bao Monterey, every dumpling is handcrafted to deliver the authentic flavors of Shanghai, making them a must-try when visiting Monterey, CA.
Craving authentic soup dumplings and more? Visit Jack’s Bao Monterey today at 751 Cannery Row STE 121, Monterey, CA, or place an order online to experience the best of Shanghainese cuisine in town.
