Buying Frozen Dim Sum in the UK: Top Picks and Buying Tips

Finding authentic-tasting dim sum that you can enjoy at home can be a challenge. While many of us love the experience of a weekend yum cha, recreating those delicate flavours from scratch is a time-consuming process. The good news is that the quality of Asian frozen food available online has improved significantly, offering a convenient way to satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the options when you want to buy xiao long bao online or stock your freezer with other dim sum favourites. We'll walk through what to look for and highlight a few standout products that bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen.

How to Choose Quality Frozen Dim Sum

Before adding items to your basket, a few key considerations can help ensure you're choosing a product that meets your expectations.

1. Understand the Dumpling Type

The world of Chinese dumplings is vast. Two of the most popular types you'll find frozen are:

• Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao): These are delicate, pleated parcels, famously containing a rich, savoury broth alongside a meat filling. They are traditionally steamed. When looking for a pork siu long bun or chicken soup dumplings, check that the description mentions a soup or broth filling for that authentic experience.
• Wontons: Often served in a light broth or with a dipping sauce, wontons typically have a much thinner, silkier wrapper. The fillings can vary widely, with prawn wontons being a classic choice. They are usually boiled but can sometimes be fried.

2. Check the Wrapper and Filling

The quality of a dumpling often comes down to the ratio and texture of its wrapper and filling. Look for product descriptions that specify a thin, delicate wrapper that won't turn stodgy after cooking. For the filling, clear ingredient lists are a good sign. Brands like Freshasia foods often provide detailed information, including the percentage of key ingredients like pork or prawn, which helps you gauge the quality.

3. Note the Cooking Instructions

Convenience is key when choosing frozen food. Most high-quality frozen dim sum is designed to be cooked directly from the freezer, with no defrosting required. Check for clear instructions, as most products are best when you steam from frozen dim sum to preserve their texture and flavour.

Top Product Recommendations

Here are a few selections that stand out for their ingredients and authentic preparation, making it easy to enjoy delicious Chinese dumplings online.

FRESHASIA Siu Long Soup Bun Classic Pork 300g

• Why It Stands Out: This is a classic take on the Shanghai-style soup dumpling. The product focuses on the two most important elements: a flavourful, savoury pork filling and a generous amount of hot soup held within a delicately pleated wrapper. It’s designed to deliver that satisfying burst of broth that xiao long bao are famous for.
• Pros:
  • Contains a rich, savoury soup inside.
  • The wrapper is thin yet resilient enough to hold the filling during steaming.
  • Classic flavour profile with pork, ginger and green onion.
• Who is it for: Anyone looking for an authentic pork siu long bun experience at home. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate the traditional flavours of this dim sum staple.

Chicken Soup Dumplings (25g*12) 300g

• Why It Stands Out: Offering a great alternative to the traditional pork filling, these chicken soup dumplings are made with 19% chicken, blended with mushrooms and spring onions. The flavour is savoury and well-balanced, providing a lighter but equally satisfying soup dumpling experience.
• Pros:
  • A non-pork option for those with dietary preferences.
  • The combination of chicken and mushroom provides a deep umami flavour.
  • Cooks from frozen in 8-10 minutes.
• Who is it for: Individuals who prefer chicken over pork or are looking to try a different style of frozen soup dumplings. It's a crowd-pleasing option that's accessible to many.

FRESHASIA Premium Prawn & Fish Roe Wonton 140g

• Why It Stands Out: These prawn wontons go a step further by incorporating two types of seafood. The filling contains a high percentage of prawn (≥19%) and flying fish roe (≥4.3%), which gives it a bouncy texture and a layered seafood flavour. A major convenience is the included seafood soup pack, allowing you to create a complete wonton soup in minutes.
• Pros:
  • Comes with a separate soup seasoning pack for a full meal solution.
  • The combination of prawn and fish roe creates a unique, pleasant texture.
  • The thin wonton wrapper becomes silky and translucent when cooked.
• Who is it for: Seafood lovers and anyone wanting a quick, flavourful meal. If you enjoy frozen wontons but want something with a more complex taste, this is an excellent choice.

Looking for More Options?

If the selections above aren't quite what you're after, or if you'd like to explore a wider variety of flavours and styles, there are many other choices available. From vegetable gyoza to char siu buns, you can find a broad selection to fill your freezer.

Explore our full range of prepared frozen meals to discover more convenient and delicious options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook frozen dim sum?

Most frozen dim sum is best cooked from frozen to maintain its shape and texture. For soup dumplings and buns, steaming is the standard method. Place them in a steamer lined with parchment paper over boiling water for 8-12 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the wrappers are translucent. For wontons, simply boil them in water or broth for 3-5 minutes until they float to the surface. Always check the package for specific instructions.

Where can I buy authentic Chinese dumplings online in the UK?

Several online retailers now specialise in delivering high-quality frozen dim sum UK-wide. Platforms like Joybuy offer a curated selection from established brands, allowing you to browse and purchase items like xiao long bao and wontons for home delivery, ensuring they arrive frozen and ready for your freezer.

What is the difference between a wonton and a soup dumpling?

The main differences are in the wrapper and the filling. A soup dumpling (xiao long bao) has a thicker, pleated wrapper made from wheat flour and is uniquely filled with a pocket of hot soup alongside the meat. A wonton has a much thinner, often square-shaped wrapper that becomes silky when boiled, and it does not typically contain soup inside the filling itself.