This Asian Dumpling Potsticker Soup is all about warmth and comfort. Loaded with delicious dumplings and veggies in a tasty broth, it’s perfect for a cozy night in!
Who doesn’t love dumplings swimming in soup? It’s like a hug in a bowl! I usually add a sprinkle of green onions on top for an extra pop of flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: Used for sautéing garlic and ginger, I prefer vegetable oil for its neutral taste. You can also use sesame oil for added flavor right at the start or olive oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic and Ginger: These two ingredients give the soup its warm, aromatic base. Fresh is best, but if you’re out, dried garlic and ginger powder can work too. Just use less than you would of the fresh versions.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth to the soup. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, choose low-sodium broth, or even water works in a pinch, just enhance it with more soy sauce.
Dumplings: Frozen dumplings are convenient and come in various options. If you can’t find frozen ones, try making your own or using wonton wrappers filled with your choice of filling!
Bok Choy or Spinach: Both are great for greens in this dish. If you can’t find bok choy, any leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard can be substituted. Fresh or frozen spinach works well, too!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Dumplings in Soup?
Cooking dumplings in soup can be tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Ensure the broth is boiling before adding the frozen dumplings. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. They’ll float to the top when they’re ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; if you have too many dumplings, consider cooking them in batches.
- When adding greens, toss them in at the end of the cooking time so they keep their bright color and nutrients.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked dumplings in your delicious soup every time!
Asian Dumpling Potsticker Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 20 frozen Asian dumplings or potstickers (pork, chicken, or vegetable)
- 2 cups baby bok choy or spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (use both green and white parts)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chili flakes or oil (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potsticker soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant and just starting to brown. Be careful not to burn them!
2. Create the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Increase the heat and bring it to a gentle boil. This is where the soup starts to come to life!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil to give the broth a savory kick. Mix everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Cook the Dumplings:
Carefully add the frozen dumplings to the boiling broth. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes until the dumplings float and are cooked through. This is the fun part—watching the dumplings come to life!
5. Add the Greens:
Once the dumplings are ready, toss in the baby bok choy (or spinach), along with the mushrooms if you’re using them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the greens have wilted but are still nice and vibrant.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in most of the sliced green onions, saving a few for garnishing later. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add some chili flakes or drizzle chili oil!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to ladle the soup and dumplings into serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with the reserved green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot, and if desired, have some soy sauce or chili oil on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
This soup is not only warming and delicious but also packed with flavors and textures that come together beautifully. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own!
Can I Use Fresh Dumplings Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh dumplings, reduce the cooking time slightly, about 3-5 minutes in the boiling broth, since they typically cook faster than frozen ones.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If bok choy or spinach isn’t available, you can use other leafy greens like Swiss chard or kale. You can also add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for added crunch and color.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. If you have dumplings left over, it’s best to store them separately, as they can absorb too much broth and become soggy.
