Yes, Trader Joe's Sells Vegan Soup Dumplings
Trader Joe's has officially released a long-awaited vegan version of its popular Steamed Soup Dumplings, much to the excitement of vegetarian and vegan shoppers. The new Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings are a plant-based take on the traditional Chinese xiao long bao, replacing the meat-based filling and broth with a savory combination of jackfruit and other vegetables. This product is found in the freezer section alongside the existing pork and chicken varieties, and it’s a permanent addition to the store's lineup.
What Are Trader Joe's Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings Made Of?
The key to achieving a 'soupy' interior in a vegetarian dumpling lies in clever ingredient choices. While traditional soup dumplings use gelatin from meat to create the broth, Trader Joe's has engineered a plant-based alternative.
- Filling: A mix of finely chopped vegetables gives the filling its savory flavor and texture. Ingredients include jackfruit, cabbage, carrot, spinach, and ginger. Jackfruit is known for its meaty texture, making it an ideal meat substitute.
- Broth: The delicious broth is achieved using agar-agar, a vegan-friendly gelling agent derived from seaweed. This ingredient sets when cold and melts into a hot liquid when steamed, replicating the classic soup dumpling experience without any animal products.
- Wrapper: The dough is made from enriched flour, modified tapioca starch, and other plant-based ingredients. It's designed to hold the liquid filling effectively during cooking.
How to Cook Trader Joe's Vegetarian Soup Dumplings
The best way to prepare these dumplings to retain the most soup is by steaming. While microwaving is an option, many report that it can lead to a drier filling.
- Steaming: For the best results, use a stovetop steamer basket. Place the dumplings on parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Steam for the recommended time on the package, usually a few minutes until tender.
- Microwaving: The dumplings come with a microwave-safe tray, making this the quickest option. Follow the package instructions, but be aware that the soup inside may not be as prominent.
- Pan-Frying: While not the traditional method for soup dumplings, some prefer to pan-fry them for a crispy bottom. This method works better for the gyoza, but can also be used here, though it may cause some of the soup to evaporate.
Vegetarian Soup Dumplings vs. Other Trader Joe's Dumplings
| Feature | Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings | Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings | Thai Vegetable Gyoza |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filling | Jackfruit, cabbage, carrot, spinach, ginger | Chicken, onion, green onion, ginger | White cabbage, carrot, chive, white radish, onion |
| Broth | Vegan (Agar-agar) | Chicken-based (Gelatin) | Not a 'soup' dumpling |
| Product Type | Soup Dumpling | Soup Dumpling | Potsticker/Gyoza |
| Dietary | Vegan, Vegetarian | Contains Meat | Vegan, Vegetarian |
| Texture | Soft, with a soupy interior when prepared correctly | Soft, with a soupy interior | Crispy or steamed, with a denser vegetable filling |
The Rise of Plant-Based Frozen Foods at Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's has a well-established history of catering to vegetarian and vegan diets, and the release of vegetable soup dumplings is a continuation of this trend. Other popular plant-based frozen items include:
- Cauliflower Gnocchi
- Vegan Spinach and Cashew Ravioli
- Meatless Meatballs
- Thai Vegetable Gyoza
- Vegetarian Fried Rice
This broad selection gives customers numerous convenient, meat-free options for quick meals and snacks. The introduction of the vegan soup dumplings fills a significant gap in the market for a plant-based, ready-to-eat xiao long bao, which has historically been difficult to find outside of specialty restaurants.
Conclusion
For years, vegetarians have watched meat-eaters enjoy the savory broth-filled goodness of Trader Joe's soup dumplings. With the introduction of the new Steamed Vegetable Soup Dumplings, everyone can now partake in this culinary delight. Made with a hearty mix of vegetables and a clever agar-agar-based broth, these vegan dumplings offer a satisfying plant-based alternative. Whether you're a long-time vegetarian or just curious to try a meat-free option, these dumplings are a must-try. You can find them in the freezer aisle and prepare them via steaming or microwaving for a quick and delicious snack or meal.
