Shanghai Style Kumara Edamame and Hemp: 10 Plant-based Dumplings product reviews

New flavours are always a gamble where children are concerned. Miss Eight and Mr Ten both like dumplings, both home-made and purchased, but they are used to the "safe" flavours that are usually served. They have had the occasional hemp product and were not overly impressed, and as for edamame, they assured me that they had never heard of it! However, they have also tasted a lot of Barker's products over the last while and have been generally in favour - so they were willing to give this one a fair trial.

Mr Ten was quite surprised when he bit into one. He was full of praise for the pastry outer because it was soft with no hint of the crunchy texture he had expected. Not only did the pastry exceed his expectations, the filling was also to his liking. He described it as flavoursome but not overwhelming, and he liked the way the inside held together without being sticky. He also thought the mixture was a pretty good substitute for meat - high praise indeed from a boy who is a passionate carnivore.

Miss Eight also enjoyed this variety. She thought the filling was generous, and although it was spicy, she said it was just the right balance. Although she is not as critical as her brother when she tries a new food, she does not like anything too hot or highly flavoured so the filling was perfect for her. She even referred to the "lingering aftertaste" which she found most acceptable.

The adults unanimously said that they thoroughly enjoyed these dumplings. Nutritionally they meet my daughter's high standards - she likes to serve natural foods with no artificial additives whenever possible. Getting children to eat meat free meals is sometimes a challenge, so she could see that this particular product would be a perfect item to keep in her freezer. It is convenient, taking only a few minutes to prepare and serve. The ten dumplings in the pack are substantial enough to feed two hungry children when served with a selection of hot vegetables or a salad.

I was impressed that the filling was sweetened with kumara: although we could not really taste the kumara, the sweetness was noticeable and it was good to know that there was no sugar needed. The other flavour enhancers - garlic, ginger, onion, pepper, and salt - are equally natural. I think it will not be too long before we buy this product again. It is also great to know that there is something I can serve my vegan (and vegetarian) friends and family members and be sure that they will enjoy it.