Types of Dumplings: A Complete Guide by United Dumplings

Dumplings are a whole world in themselves – a tapestry of flavors and textures that tell the story of tradition. If you’re planning to visit a dumpling restaurant, it helps to know the different types of dumplings before you glance at the menu and find yourself overwhelmed. Let’s walk you through the names of dumplings and how to recognize them. Then you can order confidently the next time you visit United Dumplings or any Chinese restaurant in San Francisco.

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There are two general categories of Chinese dumplings. Each has a distinct Chinese dumplings name that defines its shape and preparation method. These are the crescent-shaped dumplings called gao and the more purse-shaped, round ones called bao. From these two foundations come countless variations, distinguished by their wrappers, fillings, and cooking methods – whether fried, boiled, or steamed. Each represents a unique facet of the types of dumplings you can explore.

Here’s your guide to the seven main kinds of dumplings:

1. Siu Mai (Shumai)

Pronunciation: Shoo-my

Siu Mai is a delicious round-shaped, open-top dumpling that is a classic in Cantonese dim sum. Traditionally made with a delicate wheat dough wrapper, this dumpling is filled with a blend of ground pork and shrimp. Regional variations sometimes add mushrooms, water chestnuts, or even bamboo shoots for extra crunch and flavor. Among the different types of dumplings, Siu Mai stands out for its unique open-top design.

These beauties are steamed to perfection in bamboo baskets, which imparts a gentle aroma to the dumplings. The open top is often garnished with fish roe or a green pea, adding a pop of color and a hint of briny taste. At United Dumplings, our Siu Mai is crafted with the freshest ingredients, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.

Siu Mai is best enjoyed fresh out of the steamer, where the filling is still piping hot and the wrapper is perfectly tender. Pair it with a dab of soy sauce or a hint of chili oil for an extra kick of flavor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, Siu Mai is a delightful gateway into the world of Chinese dumplings.

2. Jiaozi (Potstickers)

Pronunciation: Jow-zee

Jiaozi, commonly known as potstickers, are crescent-shaped dumplings wrapped in a thin layer of wheat dough. These dumplings are the quintessential comfort food, with fillings that typically include ground pork, cabbage, and scallions. Among the many types of dumplings, Jiaozi is especially popular for its versatility: it can be boiled (Shui Jiao), steamed (Zheng Jiao), or pan-fried (Jian Jiao), each method bringing out different textures and flavors. Boiled Jiaozi are tender and juicy, steamed versions are soft and delicate, while pan-fried Jiaozi have a crispy bottom that adds a delightful contrast to the tender filling.

At United Dumplings, our potstickers come in a variety of unique fillings that go beyond the traditional pork – think beef, chicken, fish, and even vegetarian options. Our house-made dipping sauce of sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar perfectly complements the crispy edges and tender filling of each dumpling. Whether you prefer them steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, our Jiaozi are crafted to perfection, providing a taste of tradition in every bite.

3. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

Pronunciation: Shau-long-bao

Xiao Long Bao is the crown jewel of types of dumplings, beloved for its delicate wrapper and savory burst of soup with every bite. Purse-shaped and tender, these dumplings are filled with seasoned pork and a collagen-rich broth that transforms into a luxurious soup when steamed. The thin wrapper, nearly translucent, is strong enough to hold the rich broth but delicate enough to melt in your mouth.

The technique required to perfect Xiao Long Bao is an art in itself – one that we are proud to uphold at United Dumplings. We serve both the traditional Pork XLB and our jumbo-sized variation that’s so delightfully large, it’s accompanied by a straw to sip up the broth before diving into the tender meat. It's a sensory experience that redefines comfort food. Paired with ginger-infused black vinegar, each bite of our Xiao Long Bao is an exploration of taste and texture.

4. Har Gao (Shrimp Dumplings)

Pronunciation: Ha-gaow

Har Gao, the elegant shrimp dumpling, is easily recognizable by its translucent wrapper made from wheat and tapioca starch. Crescent-shaped and delicately pleated – typically with 7 to 10 folds – Har Gao is a testament to the skill of its maker. Inside, a juicy mixture of shrimp, pork fat, and bamboo shoots is steamed to perfection, allowing the wrapper to turn slightly translucent, offering a peek at the delicious filling.

At United Dumplings, our Har Gao is crafted with tender shrimp and just the right amount of seasoning, resulting in a bite that is juicy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. We take pride in the thinness of our wrapper, which remains strong enough to hold the plump shrimp filling without breaking. This ensures every bite is as delightful as the last. Pair it with a touch of soy sauce or chili oil, and you have a delicate masterpiece in every bite – a true representation of types of dumplings found in Chinese dim sum.

 

5. Bao Zi (Steamed Buns)

Pronunciation: Bow-zee

Bao Zi, the iconic bun-shaped dumpling, is characterized by its thick, fluffy dough and variety of fillings. The Char Siu Bao is a popular version, filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork. Another classic is the Tang Bao Zi, which contains a rich pork broth that bursts with flavor when bitten into. Bao Zi is distinct for its slightly sweet, pillowy dough that perfectly complements its savory fillings. Among the many types of dumplings, Bao Zi is known for its hearty bite and satisfying texture.

At United Dumplings, our Bao Zi lineup includes both savory and sweet varieties, each one hand-prepared with love and tradition. From our pillowy soft dough to the meticulously seasoned fillings, each bun is a delight in every bite. Whether you crave the rich flavor of BBQ pork or the soothing warmth of soup-filled buns, our Bao Zi brings the comforting taste of tradition to your plate.

6. Wontons

Pronunciation: Wawn-tawns

Wontons are perhaps the most versatile of dumplings. Made with thin, square sheets of wheat dough, these can be steamed, boiled, or fried, each preparation offering a unique texture. The fillings often include pork and shrimp, seasoned with garlic and ginger, wrapped tightly to create a perfect little parcel. Some regional varieties add mushrooms, water chestnuts, or chives for a touch of crunch and extra flavor. Among the many types of dumplings, wontons are celebrated for their adaptability and unique preparation methods.

Boiled wontons are often served in a delicate broth, their soft, silky wrappers soaking up the fragrant soup. Fried wontons, on the other hand, are crispy and golden, perfect for dipping in sweet-and-sour sauce or spicy chili oil. When steamed, wontons have a delicate texture that highlights the freshness of the ingredients inside.

At United Dumplings, we elevate the wonton experience with our house-made broths and perfectly crisped fried wontons. Whether you prefer them in soup or as a crispy appetizer, our wontons are crafted to be utterly satisfying and always packed with flavor.

7. Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings)

Pronunciation: Sheng-jian-bow

Sheng Jian Bao is a soup dumpling with a twist – literally. Unlike its steamed cousin Xiao Long Bao, Sheng Jian Bao is pan-fried to achieve a golden, crispy bottom while keeping the interior juicy and broth-filled. The dough is slightly thicker, giving it a heartier bite that pairs beautifully with the tender pork and shrimp filling inside. This unique preparation sets it apart among the types of dumplings you can enjoy.

Originating from Shanghai, Sheng Jian Bao is a breakfast staple that has become a beloved snack all day long. The crispy base provides a satisfying crunch, while the fluffy top is soft and chewy. When you bite into it, expect a burst of savory broth followed by tender meat that’s perfectly seasoned.

At United Dumplings, we take care to perfect the delicate balance of a crispy exterior and a juicy, soup-filled center. This makes it one of the most satisfying types of dumplings you can experience. Every bite is a celebration of texture and taste. Paired with our house-made dipping sauce, it’s a flavor experience that lingers long after the last bite.

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Discover Authentic Dumplings at United Dumplings

We’re proud to bring these different types of dumplings to life, which reflect tradition and exceptional taste. From classic potstickers and delicate Har Gao to our signature jumbo-sized Xiao Long Bao, each dumpling is a handcrafted experience. Don't forget to explore our frozen dumpling collection, so you can enjoy your favorites at home any time.