Yum Cha at Home

Recreate an authentic restaurant-grade Yum cha feast at home with ease. Made by our Upper Hutt commercial kitchen under the guidance of our chef with over 30 years of culinary experience, our carefully crafted dumplings and buns cook straight from frozen in minutes. Whether you prefer a soft, pillowy steam, a crisp pan-fry, or a comforting boil, explore our cooking option on the packs.

Frequently asked cooking questions

Everything you need to know about preparing and purchasing your frozen Kai Sum products

Do I need to defrost the dumplings or buns before cooking?

No, always cook our all products (dumplings, buns, dim sum and spring rolls) straight from frozen. Defrosting them can make the delicate wrappers soggy or cause buns to lose their fluffy texture.

How do I steam dumplings and buns in a bamboo or metal steamer?

Line your steamer basket with baking paper or perforated parchment. Bring water in your wok or pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Place the frozen dumplings or buns inside with at least 2cm space between them. Cover and steam dumplings for 10-12 minutes, and larger buns for 12–15 minutes until piping hot throughout. Please also check packaging for precise cooking instructions and time.

Can I cook dumplings and buns without a bamboo steamer?

Yes of course, you can steam the goodies on a heat proof plate. Fill the pot/ pan with water and place a steamer stand the pot/ pan. Place the plate on top of the stand and steam as per instructions.

How do I pan-fry dumplings (potstickers)?

Heat 3-4 tablespoons of cooking oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Arrange frozen dumplings flat-side down and then add roughly to cover 1/3 of the dumplings, cover immediately with a tight lid, and let it cook for approximately 12 minutes. Remove the lid and continue cooking until all water evaporates and the bases are crisp. Please also check packaging for precise instructions and time.

Can I boil the dumplings for soup?

Yes, boiling is ideal for classic soup dumplings. Bring a generous pot of water or seasoned broth to a rolling boil. Gently drop in the frozen dumplings, stirring lightly to prevent sticking. Once the water returns to a boil, cook for 10 minutes until they float to the surface and are cooked through.

Can I cook buns in the microwave?

While traditional steaming delivers the best, fluffiest texture, you can microwave buns in a pinch. Place frozen bun in a microwave-safe dish, and a damp paper towel over the top, microwave on high for approximately 90 seconds steaming hot and cooked right through. 

Can I use an air fryer?

Air frying works wonderfully for selected dumplings to achieve a crispy wonton texture. Lightly spray frozen dumplings with oil, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook at 180°C for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden brown.

You may also cook Spring rolls in the air fryer, spray the frozen spring roll with oil and place then in a single layer in the basket and cook at 180°C for 12 minutes, turning the spring rolls halfway through until golden brown.

How long can I store Kai Sum products in my freezer?

All our products keep their signature fresh taste for up to 12 months from manufacturing and when stored continuously in an airtight container or original packaging in your freezer at -18°C or below.

Where can I view the full range of fillings and flavours?

You can browse all our product options anytime on our yum cha menu, and order your favourites to pick up through shop online.

Where can I purchase Kai Sum products, other than online?

We have our full range of products at the Yans Supermakret in Lower Hutt and Wellington. We also have selected items at selected supermarket, please see our stockist page for stores.

Ready to stock your freezer?

Browse our complete collection of goodies and enjoy Wellington's favourite Yum cha in your own dining room.