Dumplings are a street food classic across Asia and a staple Aussies have wholeheartedly embraced and love.
Cathay Pacific has created an infographic on Dumplings Around the World (see below), showcasing some of the tastiest doughy parcels from across the globe. Whether you’re a fan of the savoury and crisp, or the soft and sweet, the delicious charms of these mouth-watering dumplings almost never disappoints.
Foodie fanatics residing in Melbourne can rejoice! Here are 5 places where you can get your dumplings fix.
1. Din Tai Fung – 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
This dumpling house is highly renowned and deservingly so when the food (and dumplings) are nothing short of extraordinary. Expect to see towers of steaming bamboo baskets hiding the famous Xiao Long Bao dumplings inside. Often touted as the jewel in the dumpling crown, Xiao Long Bao is a steamed bun and soup based dumpling that takes its name from the bamboo baskets in which they’re prepared (xiaolong). The filling is usually pork based to create a collagen rich pork gelatine that melts under heat, creating a truly mouth-watering dumpling that’s chock full of flavour.
2. I Love Dumpling – 297 Racecourse Road, Flemington
I Love Dumpling is the perfect name for this restaurant, as that’s exactly what you’ll say once you try their Guo Tie Dumplings. More commonly known as ‘potstickers’ these freshly made dumplings are meant to be eaten hot, pan fried to perfection while you wait. The result is a golden brown outer layer with an extra crispy bottom that’s hiding a delicious and juicy filling. Guo Tie come with great filling pairings too. From pork and chive to shrimp and mixed veggies, the options are endless. Hidden away on the Kensington-Flemington border this small eatery focuses on quality over quantity.
3. Tao Tao House – 815 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn
Tao Tao House roughly translates to ‘House of Happiness’ and that will become abundantly clear when you’re seated inside biting into your first Har Gow. Said to be the ultimate test of a dumpling chef’s skills, Har Gows are shrimp dumplings wrapped in a gorgeous translucent skin. Often served as Dim Sum in Yum Cha, this traditional Cantonese dumpling should be sturdy enough to be picked up with chopsticks without breaking. Which gives you the perfect excuse to head out and try one and practice those chopstick skills.
4. Golden Dragon Palace – 363 Manningham Rd Templestowe
This ever popular yum cha destination is suited for big families and big groups so expect to see a busy carpark outside and a buzzing atmosphere inside. No yum cha experience is complete without trying Siu Mai. These fresh and juicy dumpling variations are another Chinese classic. Open-topped and usually pork filled, expect a steamed treat that overflows with flavour as the unique pleated opening lets you gaze in at all the goodies inside. Whether that’s fish roe, carrots, peas or chives, the results are always delicious.
5. Tang Asian Food Emporium – 185 Russell St, Melbourne
Not every dumpling is a savoury treat, which makes the sweet and sticky texture of Tang Yuan Dumplings such a delightful change. Fillings range from sesame paste or red bean paste to peanuts or even rock candy. Often served as dessert these dumplings are the perfect way to round off any meal. Tang Asian Food Emporium sells a massive range of Tang Yuan dumplings so you can purchase a trolley full and enjoy to your heart’s content in the comfort of your home. Refer to the simple cooking instructions on the package and you’re good to go. Initially a festival food this dessert treat is now enjoyed year-round – and for good reasons too! It’s simply delicious.
