Best Ways to Cook Frozen Pork Soup Dumplings: Pan-Fried or Steamed?

In the kitchen of the best Chinese restaurant, one question always comes up: Should soup dumplings be steamed or pan-fried? The truth is, both can be delicious—it just depends on what kind of experience is on the table. Frozen dumplings make it easy to enjoy this comfort food at home, and learning the best ways to cook frozen pork soup dumplings helps bring out their best texture and flavor. A soft bite with rich broth or a crispy golden bottom? Either way, it’s a win.

Read More: How Shanghai Soup Dumplings Are Made From Scratch at United Dumplings

Dumpling Cooking Methods: What to Know Before You Get Started

Not all cooking methods treat soup dumplings equally. Some bring out their strengths, while others miss the mark. Here’s a quick look at the most common dumpling cooking methods, and what each one offers.

• Steaming: Gentle, even heat that keeps the broth sealed inside and the wrapper tender.
• Pan-frying: Crisp bottom with a soft top—adds texture without losing the juicy filling.
• Boiling: Works well for other dumplings, but can make soup dumplings too fragile.
• Microwaving: Fast, but doesn’t offer the same texture or consistency as stovetop methods.

When it comes to the best ways to cook frozen pork soup dumplings, steaming and pan-frying stand out for a reason. Each brings something different—and both are worth trying.

Pan-Fried vs. Steamed Dumplings: Two Styles, One Great Meal

The choice between pan-fried vs. steamed dumplings often comes down to what kind of bite feels right for the moment. Both methods highlight different sides of the same dish.

Why steaming works:

• Keeps the soup intact and the filling juicy
• Soft, tender wrapper from top to bottom
• Classic feel that lets the filling shine

Why pan-frying is popular:

• Crispy golden bottom adds texture
• Beautiful contrast between crunch and softness
• Great for casual meals or sharing plates

Both styles have their place. When deciding on the best ways to cook frozen pork soup dumplings, think about whether the meal calls for something soft and subtle—or a little crisp and bold.

How to Enjoy Soup Dumplings at Their Best

A well-cooked dumpling deserves to be eaten the right way. Knowing how to enjoy soup dumplings brings out all the care that went into making them.

Try these serving tips:

• Use a spoon to hold the dumpling, so the broth stays with it
• Add dipping sauce—black vinegar with ginger is a classic, but chili oil or soy-garlic sauces work too
• Pair with simple sides like steamed bok choy or cucumber salad
• Serve hot and enjoy right away for the best texture
• Sip the soup first or go for one clean bite, depending on size and preference

Cooking is just one part. When exploring the best ways to cook frozen pork soup dumplings, how they’re eaten matters just as much.

Read More: What to Serve With Shanghai Soup Dumplings for Dinner

From the United Dumplings Kitchen

There’s no single “right” way to enjoy soup dumplings. That’s what makes them special. Steaming brings out their soft, comforting side. Pan-frying adds a bit of crunch and flair. Both are simple to do at home, and both celebrate everything good about handmade dumplings.

The best ways to cook frozen pork soup dumplings start with the right method, but they end with good company, a warm table, and maybe a little dipping sauce on the side.

For anyone stocking the freezer with easy, high-quality meals, our frozen collection is a great place to start. We fold each dumpling by hand, using fresh ingredients and family recipes. Whether steaming or pan-frying them, people enjoy these dumplings together—one bite at a time.