There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of potsticker soup on a chilly evening. This flavorful dish combines tender dumplings, earthy mushrooms, and fresh bok choy in a savory, umami-packed broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Potsticker soup is inspired by classic Asian flavors, featuring ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, which enhance the depth of the broth. The inclusion of frozen potstickers makes this dish incredibly convenient, eliminating the need for labor-intensive dumpling preparation.
If you love dumplings, you’ll appreciate how this soup turns them into a satisfying, slurp-worthy meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can swap out ingredients, adjust the spice level, or add proteins like tofu or chicken to make it your own. Learn more about the history and varieties of dumplings in this comprehensive guide.
The best part? This soup strikes the perfect balance between light and satisfying, making it a dish you’ll crave year-round. Whether you’re a dumpling lover or a soup enthusiast, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Try serving it with a side of Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Would you slurp up a bowl of potsticker soup tonight? 🍜✨
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this potsticker soup, whether you’re a fan of dumplings or simply looking for a quick and nourishing meal. This dish is:
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a rich, savory broth.
- Customizable – You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or personal taste.
- Nutritious & Satisfying – With mushrooms, bok choy, and dumplings, this soup is both wholesome and filling.
One of the best things about this soup is how it allows you to enjoy dumplings in a new and exciting way. Instead of pan-frying or steaming, the potstickers absorb the flavors of the broth, becoming extra juicy and delicious. This cooking technique is common in various Asian cuisines, as explored in this Wikipedia article on dumplings.
Looking for other cozy Asian soup recipes? Check out these Pinterest boards for more inspiration on comforting, broth-based dishes.
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions
A great soup starts with high-quality, flavorful ingredients. Below is a breakdown of each component in this potsticker soup, along with possible substitutions to fit your dietary needs.
Essential Ingredients
- Sesame Oil – Adds a deep, nutty flavor. If unavailable, substitute with olive oil or neutral vegetable oil. Learn more about its benefits in this Wikipedia article on sesame oil.
- Garlic & Ginger – Essential aromatics that create the base of the soup’s rich umami flavor. Freshly minced or grated works best, but garlic and ginger paste can also be used.
- Chicken Broth – Forms the heart of the soup. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. For a homemade touch, try making your own broth using leftover chicken bones.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances umami and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. Dive deeper into the different types of soy sauce in this guide.
- Rice Vinegar – Provides a slight tanginess that balances the savory broth. If unavailable, swap it with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- Mushrooms – Brings an earthy depth to the soup. You can use shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms depending on availability.
Key Vegetables & Dumplings
- Baby Bok Choy – Tender greens that add freshness and nutrients. Napa cabbage or spinach are great alternatives. Bok choy is a staple in many Asian dishes—learn more about its health benefits here.
- Frozen Potstickers – The star of the dish! Use chicken, pork, or vegetable dumplings depending on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own dumplings—check out these Pinterest dumpling-making tips.
Seasonings & Garnishes
- Green Onions – Adds freshness and a mild crunch.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but perfect for spice lovers. Add more or less based on your heat preference.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Adjust to taste. The soy sauce already adds salt, so taste before adding more.
This ingredient list ensures a well-balanced, flavorful soup that’s easy to modify. Want to make it even healthier? Check out this Pinterest board for more nutritious soup ideas.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this potsticker soup is incredibly simple and requires just one pot. Follow these easy steps to bring everything together for a warm, comforting meal.
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger.
- Stir constantly and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
This step is crucial as it helps release the essential oils from the aromatics, building a flavorful base for the broth. If you love the taste of sesame, read more about its uses in this Wikipedia article on sesame oil.
Step 2: Creating the Broth
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option).
- Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar.
- Stir and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
The balance of salty soy sauce and tangy rice vinegar enhances the broth’s depth. Want to learn more about how different soy sauces impact flavor? Check out this guide.
Step 3: Cooking the Mushrooms
- Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the pot.
- Let them cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Mushrooms add a deep umami flavor to the soup, making it even more satisfying. For more ways to incorporate mushrooms into your meals, explore these Pinterest recipes.
Step 4: Adding Potstickers & Bok Choy
- Stir in 12 frozen potstickers (chicken, pork, or vegetable).
- Add 2 cups of chopped baby bok choy.
- Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the potstickers are heated through and the bok choy is tender.
At this stage, the dumplings soak up all the delicious flavors from the broth, making them incredibly juicy. If you’re interested in making homemade dumplings, check out these Pinterest dumpling-making tips.
Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serving
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
This step ensures the flavors are well-balanced. Want to explore more Asian-inspired soup recipes? Browse this Pinterest board for more ideas.
Expert Tips for the Best Potsticker Soup
To make your potsticker soup even more delicious, keep these expert tips in mind.
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Potstickers
- If adding more than 12 dumplings, cook them in batches to prevent them from sticking together.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking them apart.
2. Use Homemade Dumplings for a Special Touch
- While frozen dumplings are convenient, making your own allows you to customize the filling.
- Check out these Pinterest dumpling-making tips for inspiration.
3. Enhance the Broth for More Depth
- Add a teaspoon of miso paste or a splash of fish sauce for extra umami.
- For a richer flavor, simmer the broth with dried shiitake mushrooms before adding the fresh ones.
4. Adjust the Spice Level
- If you love spice, stir in sriracha, chili oil, or extra red pepper flakes.
- To make it mild, omit the spice and use a touch of honey to balance the flavors.
5. Thicken the Broth if Desired
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the soup before adding the potstickers.
- This will give the broth a slightly silky texture.
Mastering these small details will elevate your potsticker soup to restaurant-quality perfection! Want to experiment with more brothy Asian soups? Check out these Pinterest boards for more ideas.
Variations & Customizations
This potsticker soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. Here are some popular variations to try:
1. Vegetarian & Vegan Version
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Opt for plant-based potstickers filled with mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu.
- Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.
For more delicious vegetarian soup ideas, explore this Pinterest board.
2. Protein-Packed Option
- Add shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Stir in a beaten egg while the soup is simmering for an egg-drop effect.
3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Modification
- Replace the dumplings with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Use a homemade broth rich in collagen for added benefits.
4. Extra Greens & Veggies
- Add spinach, kale, napa cabbage, or shredded carrots for a nutrient boost.
- Mushrooms already add umami, but you can enhance it further by using shiitake or enoki mushrooms—read more about their benefits in this Wikipedia article.
5. Make It Spicier or Milder
- If you love heat, add chili crisp, gochujang, or extra red pepper flakes.
- For a milder version, omit the spice and add a drizzle of honey for balance.
Want more ways to customize your soups? Check out these Pinterest boards for more creative ideas.
What to Serve with Potsticker Soup
While this potsticker soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
1. Light & Refreshing Sides
- Asian Cucumber Salad – A crisp, tangy side dish that balances the warmth of the soup. Try this Pinterest collection for inspiration.
- Steamed Edamame – Lightly salted and packed with protein, edamame makes a great appetizer.
- Pickled Vegetables – Adds acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness of the broth.
2. Starchy Complements
- Steamed Rice – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Scallion Pancakes – Crispy, savory pancakes that pair well with soy sauce or chili oil.
- Bao Buns – Soft, fluffy buns filled with pork, tofu, or veggies.
3. Crispy & Savory Additions
- Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls – A crunchy contrast to the soft dumplings in the soup.
- Crispy Tofu Bites – Lightly fried tofu with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.
4. Beverage Pairings
- Green Tea – A warm, soothing drink that complements the umami flavors.
- Light White Wine or Sake – Pairs well with the savory broth and dumplings.
Pairing your potsticker soup with the right sides makes for a well-rounded meal. Want more ideas? Check out these Pinterest boards for side dish inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Fresh Potstickers Instead of Frozen?
Yes! Fresh potstickers will cook faster than frozen ones. Reduce the simmering time to 3-4 minutes to prevent them from becoming too soft.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The dumplings may absorb more broth over time, so add extra broth when reheating.
3. Can I Freeze Potsticker Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the broth separately and add fresh dumplings when reheating. Dumplings may become mushy if frozen in the broth.
4. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Soup?
- Heat over medium heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as dumplings can become overly soft.
5. Can I Make This in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the aromatics, then add the broth, mushrooms, and dumplings. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then quick-release.
For more cozy soup ideas, check out these Pinterest boards for inspiration! 🍜
PrintCozy Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms & Bok Choy
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms & Bok Choy! 🍜 This flavorful broth-based soup features juicy dumplings, earthy mushrooms, and tender bok choy, creating a delicious balance of textures and flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a dumpling lover or just craving something cozy, this soup is a must-try!
Serve it with a side of steamed rice, crispy spring rolls, or an Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal. Want to spice it up? Add a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha for an extra kick!
Would you slurp this up? 🍜✨
#SoupSeason #PotstickerSoup #EasyDinner #ComfortFood #DumplingLover
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups baby bok choy, chopped
- 12 frozen potstickers (chicken or vegetable)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
Add the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the bok choy and frozen potstickers. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the potstickers are heated through and bok choy is tender.
Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
- Broth Variations: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or add miso paste for extra umami.
- Dumpling Options: Any type of frozen or fresh potstickers works—chicken, pork, shrimp, or veggie!
- Storage Tip: If saving leftovers, store the broth and dumplings separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat with red pepper flakes, chili crisp, or gochujang to your taste.
- Customization: Add tofu, shrimp, or shredded chicken for extra protein, or swap bok choy for napa cabbage or spinach.
