Tom Yum Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)

Introduction

If you love the spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors of Tom Yum soup, you’re going to be obsessed with this easy Tom Yum Soup Dumplings recipe.

This comforting dish combines the bold Thai flavors of lemongrass, lime, and chili with juicy, steamy soup dumplings (aka xiao long bao) — all simmered in a fragrant, customizable broth. It’s a quick and cozy meal you can make in under 15 minutes, perfect for solo weeknight dinners or impressing friends with a fun, fusion twist.

You may or may not have tried my Thai Curry Soup Dumplings recipe I posted on my socials. I’ve been obsessed with soup dumpling variations, especially with thai flavors. I just feel like the flavors compliment each other so well.

👉 Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Uses frozen dumplings (aka xiao long bao)— no folding required.
• Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Customizable toppings and add-ins.
• Creamy or classic tom yum options.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best tom yum soup dumplings at home:

• Soup Dumplings — Use any frozen brand you love.
• Tom Yum Soup Base — You can use any tom yum soup base you prefer. I personally used the Quốc Việt Thai Tom Yum Soup Base, and I found that it gives the broth authentic flavor fast.
• Broth or Water — Chicken stock works best for richness.
• Coconut Milk (Optional) — Adds creaminess and softens the spice.
• Toppings & Add-ins — Think mushrooms, bok choy, chili oil, cilantro, and lime.

Tip: Adjust the tom yum base depending on how bold or spicy you want the flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more as needed.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pot

Warm your pot (I used my favorite Korean stone pot for this but you can use any pot that has depth) over medium heat with 1 tsp of neutral oil. This gives the broth a cozy, sizzling base to build flavor.

2. Make the Broth

In a separate bowl, combine ½–¾ cup chicken stock with 1 heaping teaspoon of tom yum soup base. Stir until dissolved. Add coconut milk if using for a creamy version.

3. Assemble and Cook

Pour the broth into your heated stone pot. Add frozen soup dumplings directly into the broth. If you’re adding mushrooms, bok choy, or tofu, add them now. Cover and let simmer gently for 6–8 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked and the broth is bubbling.

4. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped cilantro, chili oil or crisp, crispy garlic or shallots, and a lime wedge. Serve piping hot and enjoy immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Tom Yum Soup Dumplings

• Creamy Upgrade: A few tablespoons of coconut milk add depth and balance to the spicy broth.
• Broth Intensity: If you like it extra bold, stir in an extra ½ teaspoon of the soup base.
• Toppings Matter: Don’t skip the lime — the acidity brightens everything up.
• Stone Pot Hack: If you don’t have a stone pot, use a small saucepan or mini hot pot instead.

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Storage & Reheating

These dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container with broth for up to 2 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, covered, until warm. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

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FAQ

Can I use homemade dumplings?

Yes! Homemade soup dumplings work beautifully, but using frozen saves time.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just swap chicken stock for veggie broth and use tofu or veggie dumplings.

How spicy is tom yum?

Medium spicy by default. You can adjust the tom yum base to your taste or add coconut milk to mellow it out.

Video Tutorial

Checkout the video I made below to use as a visual guide for this Tom Yum Soup Dumplings Recipe:

@ivyskitchn

Tom Yum Soup Dumplings 🥟 Full recipe linked in my blog in my bio #easyrecipes #tomyum #soupdumplings #xiaolongbao #xlb

♬ GASLIGHT – INJI

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