If you have ever fallen in love with those irresistible little parcels packed with savory broth and tender filling from Costco, you are in for a true treat today. This Costco Soup Dumplings Recipe lets you recreate that magic right at home with juicy chicken, delicate napa cabbage, and that soul-warming soup inside each perfectly steamed wrapper. It’s such a fun process and the reward? Pure, steamy, mouth-pleasing happiness that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions so you can taste the magic whenever you want.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each bringing something special to the table—from the succulent ground chicken to the subtle warmth of ginger. Getting these right ensures your dumplings have that authentic texture and flavor that make them so crave-worthy.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The star protein providing juicy, tender bites packed with flavor.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage: Adds crunch and freshness that balances the rich broth.
- 2 green onions finely sliced: Offers a mild, oniony bite that brightens the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses layers of aromatic depth to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated: Adds a gentle zing and warmth that punches up the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings saltiness and umami richness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty, nutty aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Offers a mild peppery heat without overpowering.
- 1 cup rich chicken broth: The heart of the soup inside the dumplings for that iconic soupy burst.
- 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin: Turns the broth into delicately set cubes that melt when steamed.
- 40 round dumpling wrappers: The soft yet sturdy outer shell that holds all the deliciousness.
How to Make Costco Soup Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Broth Cubes
Start by pouring the chicken broth into a small saucepan and sprinkling the gelatin evenly over the surface. Allow the gelatin to bloom undisturbed for about 5 minutes — this creates the perfect texture. Then, gently warm the broth over low heat, stirring until the gelatin dissolves completely. Pour this mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until fully set. Once firm, finely chop the gelatinized broth into bite-sized cubes. These little cubes are what will transform your dumplings from ordinary to extraordinary with that signature soup burst inside.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a spacious bowl, combine the ground chicken with the finely chopped napa cabbage, sliced green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all flavors are evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive. The fresh vegetables add crispness and texture while the seasonings build savory depth, resulting in a beautifully balanced filling.
Step 3: Fold in the Broth Cubes
Carefully fold the cold gelatin broth cubes into the filling mixture. Handle with care here to ensure the broth cubes stay intact and evenly disperse throughout the filling. These cubes will melt into liquid center once steamed, creating the soup dumpling’s signature surprise.
Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings
Place a single round wrapper in the palm of your hand. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of filling into the center, ensuring you include some broth cubes. Using your fingers, pleat around the edge of the wrapper by pinching small sections and folding them over each other to seal the dumpling tightly. This pleating not only secures the filling but also creates that charming classic shape.
Step 5: Steam the Dumplings
Arrange your assembled dumplings in a lined steamer basket, making sure to leave space between each one so they don’t stick together. Steam over boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the dumplings turn slightly translucent and the chicken will be fully cooked through. The magic happens as the gelatin melts into a hot, savory broth sealed inside each dumpling, ready to burst with each bite.
How to Serve Costco Soup Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your dumplings with simple garnishes can elevate the dining experience. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a hit of color and freshness. A drizzle of black vinegar or chili oil on the side can amp up the tang and spice, making each bite a little adventure.
Side Dishes
These dumplings work wonderfully as an appetizer or main feature alongside crisp Asian-style slaws, steamed bok choy, or a fragrant jasmine rice. Light cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar is another refreshing companion that cuts through the richness of the soup dumplings perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or party, present your dumplings on a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper for an authentic touch. You can also serve them in individual small bowls or even eat them as a fun finger food paired with assorted dipping sauces like soy-ginger or sesame garlic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover dumplings, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They remain tender and retain most of their flavor when stored properly.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked dumplings by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, steam them directly from frozen, just adding a few minutes to the cooking time. This trick makes having homemade soup dumplings on hand a total breeze.
Reheating
Gently reheat steamed or frozen dumplings by steaming again for 6 to 8 minutes until hot and the texture is restored. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the delicate wrappers and cause the broth inside to leak prematurely.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground chicken with pork or beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork is a popular choice for soup dumplings and provides a richer flavor, while beef offers a heartier alternative. Just adjust seasoning slightly to complement the meat you choose.
What if I can’t find unflavored gelatin?
You might substitute with agar-agar powder as a vegetarian-friendly alternative, but the texture differs slightly. Gelatin gives the broth that classic melt-in-your-mouth feel essential for soup dumplings.
How do I prevent dumpling wrappers from drying out during assembly?
Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Working in small batches helps maintain moisture so they remain pliable and easier to pleat without tearing.
Is it necessary to chill the broth before mixing it into the filling?
Yes, chilling the broth until it is fully set and firm ensures that when it’s folded into the filling, it holds its shape. This prevents leakage before steaming and guarantees that perfect soup surprise inside.
Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
Definitely! Just look for gluten-free dumpling wrappers at specialty stores or make your own from rice flour blends. Also, use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making this Costco Soup Dumplings Recipe at home is such an enjoyable and rewarding experience. From the tender chicken filling to the magical soup center and silky wrappers, every bite brings warmth and delight. Whether you’re cooking for dinner party guests or a comforting night in, these dumplings truly impress. I encourage you to give them a try and watch your family or friends savor each steamy morsel. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Costco Soup Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 40 dumplings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
These Costco Soup Dumplings are a delightful homemade version of the beloved steamed chicken dumplings packed with flavorful ground chicken, crisp napa cabbage, and a savory gelatin-infused broth that melts inside when steamed. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they combine traditional Asian-inspired flavors with convenient preparation and steaming technique for juicy, tender dumplings bursting with delicious soup filling.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Broth Gelatin
- 1 cup rich chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
Dumpling Wrappers
- 40 round dumpling wrappers
Instructions
- Prepare Gelatin Broth: Pour the chicken broth into a small saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface. Let it sit and bloom for 5 minutes, then gently heat the broth, stirring until the gelatin completely dissolves. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until fully set into a firm jelly.
- Cube the Gelatin: Once set, use a knife to finely chop the gelatin broth into small cubes. Set aside to incorporate into the filling.
- Make Dumpling Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped napa cabbage, sliced green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
- Incorporate Broth Cubes: Gently fold the chilled gelatin broth cubes into the chicken mixture, distributing them evenly throughout without breaking them down.
- Assemble Dumplings: Keep dumpling wrappers covered to prevent drying. Place one wrapper in the palm of your hand and add about 1 tablespoon of filling into its center. Carefully pleat and pinch the edges to seal the dumpling completely, ensuring no leaks.
- Steam Dumplings: Arrange the assembled dumplings in a steamer basket lined with parchment or cabbage leaves, leaving space between each one. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes until the wrappers become slightly translucent and the filling is fully cooked.
- Serve: Serve the dumplings hot and enjoy the juicy, soup-filled bites fresh from the steamer.
Notes
- Keep dumpling wrappers covered with a damp towel while assembling to prevent them from drying out and tearing.
- These dumplings freeze well before cooking—freeze on a tray then transfer to a bag. Steam directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
