Dumpling Descendants is inspired by the delectable Qin’s Garden. Bringing the taste of Wu Xi all the way from China, Qin’s Garden has been cooking made-to-order soup dumplings since 1751. In its first location outside of Asia, this brick-and-mortar restaurant on Spadina is known for its crab meat soup dumplings and wontons. Over four generations, the Qin family has passed down their special recipes and cooking process, bringing the taste of their home to Canada.

Soup dumplings were something I began eating a lot of when I moved to Toronto 10 years ago. They are cheap, made quickly and perfectly filling; it was hard to resist eating them so regularly. The bursting of soup in my mouth always made me feel warm and at home. My mother always said to me growing up that a cold stomach is an upset stomach, and a warm stomach is a happy one. When my belly is fully of soup, I often think of this.

Dumpling Descendants is a part of my SIK JOR FAHN MEI AH Series where I consider my connection to Chinese food by showcasing some of my favourite dishes from local Toronto restaurants. The series title in English means “have you eaten yet?”. It is a meant as a phrase of love and care.