Imperial Palate

Grace's Story

Grace Huen has can be found at Grey Lynn Farmers Market selling her dumpling kits.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up and spent most of my childhood in Auckland. My parents moved here from Hong Kong when I was four.

So, does Auckland feel like home to you now?

For me, home isn't just a place – it's where the people I love and care about are. My parents are here, and I’m now raising my own family here in Auckland. 

What did you study at university?

I studied Mechanical Engineering and was particularly drawn to sustainable product design. The idea of creating solutions that minimize environmental impact really inspired me. Then the pull of entrepreneurship led me to working closely with startups at Callaghan Innovation.

How did that lead you to start a dumpling kit business?

I wanted to create something meaningful that aligned with my personal values – sustainability, ethical practices, and a positive impact on both the environment and people’s health. And it had to be something that I was passionate about.

Why did you choose dumplings?

I love Dumplings - they have always been a comfort food for me, and they symbolize “home.” Growing up, my mum and I made dumplings together for the Lunar New Year and other cultural festivities. I wanted to recreate this experience and make it accessible for others to enjoy with their loved ones. Whether it's families to create their own memories, connecting with culture, teaching kids a new skill, or simply enjoying time together. 

What makes your dumplings different from others?

Growing up in New Zealand has exposed me to a broader range of tastes than I would have had in Hong Kong.  I love using fresh, local vegetables and I am inspired by the diverse cultures here. I use a miso-based sauce in my dumplings because it enhances the natural flavours of the ingredients, as opposed to the stronger, often overpowering taste of the traditional soy sauce.

Tell me about your dumpling kits.

The kits are designed for convenience and quality. Everything is kept frozen until you're ready to make them. When you open the box, you’ll find all the essentials – vegetables, seasoning sauce, wrappers, and your choice of protein (chicken, pork, or tofu). I take great pride in using high-quality ingredients, including organic flour and free-range meat, so that every kit is as good as it can be. 

How do the kits work?

It’s pretty simple! You just mix the protein, vegetables, and sauce in a bowl. Then, spoon a teaspoon of the mixture into each wrapper and fold it up. The wrappers are stretchy and flexible, so they’re easy to handle. It’s a fun, hands-on experience for the whole family!

What’s the best way to cook dumplings?

There are several options for cooking. Steaming is an easy and healthy method, or you can boil them in a broth for a more hearty, comforting meal. My personal favourite is to pan-fry them until the bottoms are crispy. I’ve even included potato starch in the dough to help achieve that ultimate crispy texture.

What’s the best way to enjoy Imperial Palate dumplings?

I curated these dumplings, so they taste delicious all on their own, without needing any dipping sauce. However, if you like a little extra zing, a bit of chilli oil can take them to the next level.

Do you have time for any hobbies outside of work and family?

It’s definitely a balancing act! Most of my time is devoted to my family and my growing business. But when I do get a moment, I love photography and traveling. Exploring new places and capturing beautiful moments is something that really refreshes me.

As published in Ponsonby News : December 2024