Potsticker Soup

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Potsticker Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender dumplings with a flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. It’s a perfect fusion of cozy and satisfying, bringing all the delicious flavors of potstickers into a hearty soup.

I first made this when I was craving dumplings but wanted something more comforting and broth-based. The result was an incredibly flavorful soup filled with juicy potstickers, vibrant greens, and a deeply savory broth. What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is—you get all the goodness of dumplings with minimal effort!

What’s great about Potsticker Soup is its versatility. You can use any type of dumplings, add mushrooms for an umami boost, or spice it up with chili oil. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or to warm up on a chilly day, this soup is a cozy, flavorful bowl of comfort!

Perfect for:

  • Cozy, chilly evenings
  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Dumpling lovers
  • Meal prep and leftovers
  • Easy one-pot meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Potsticker Soup will become a staple in your home:

  • Easy and Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot for easy cleanup.
  • Dumpling Heaven: Enjoy soft, pillowy potstickers in every spoonful.
  • Customizable: Swap veggies, broth, or dumplings to fit your taste.
  • Balanced Flavors: A perfect harmony of savory, slightly spicy, and fresh ingredients.
  • Light Yet Satisfying: Hearty without being too heavy.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
  • Kid-Friendly: A fun and familiar way to enjoy dumplings.
  • Versatile Protein Options: Use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based dumplings.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: Skip takeout and make this delicious soup anytime.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Soup Add-Ins:

  • 12-16 frozen or fresh potstickers (chicken, turkey, or veggie)
  • 1 cup napa cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • ½ cup carrots, julienned
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or basil (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Potstickers: The heart of the dish, adding a chewy, satisfying bite.
  • Soy Sauce & Sesame Oil: Bring umami depth and rich flavor.
  • Ginger & Garlic: Essential aromatics that enhance warmth and fragrance.
  • Vegetables: Add crunch, color, and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Soup Base:

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Broth & Seasonings: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Potstickers:

  1. Simmer Potstickers: Add frozen or fresh potstickers directly into the broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked.

Add Vegetables:

  1. Stir in Veggies: Add mushrooms, napa cabbage, and carrots. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  2. Finish with Green Onions: Stir in green onions and remove from heat.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and top with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 10 ways to enjoy Potsticker Soup:

  • With Extra Chili Oil: Drizzle for added spice.
  • Paired with Rice: Serve with steamed rice for a heartier meal.
  • As an Appetizer: A perfect start to an Asian-inspired dinner.
  • With More Dumplings: Add extra potstickers for a dumpling-packed bowl.
  • With a Side of Stir-Fried Greens: Balance the meal with a veggie side.
  • Topped with a Soft-Boiled Egg: A rich, creamy addition.
  • With Noodles: Add ramen or rice noodles for extra texture.
  • For Meal Prep: Make ahead and store in the fridge for easy lunches.
  • With a Soy Sauce Drizzle: A splash of soy sauce enhances the flavor.
  • With Crispy Wontons: Sprinkle crushed wonton chips for crunch.

Additional Tips

  • Crispy Touch – Pan-fry the potstickers before adding them to the broth for a crispier texture.
  • Flavor Boost – Enhance the broth with a splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, or rice vinegar for extra depth.
  • Protein Power – Add shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make it heartier.
  • Veggie Variety – Toss in mushrooms, baby bok choy, or julienned carrots for added nutrients and color.
  • Spice It Up – Stir in chili oil, sriracha, or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Fresh Garnishes – Top with green onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
  • Noodle Upgrade – Add ramen, udon, or rice noodles for a more filling meal.
  • Keep It Brothy – If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of hot water or broth to maintain consistency.
  • Quick & Easy – Use frozen potstickers for convenience; no need to thaw before cooking.
  • Leftover Love – Store leftovers separately to keep the dumplings from getting too soggy. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Szechuan – Add a spoonful of chili oil, a dash of Szechuan peppercorns, and a handful of sliced mushrooms for a bold, numbing heat.
  • Miso-Ginger Broth – Stir in a spoonful of miso paste and fresh grated ginger for an umami-rich, Japanese-inspired twist.
  • Coconut Curry – Swap part of the broth for coconut milk and mix in red curry paste for a creamy, aromatic Thai-style soup.
  • Egg Drop Style – Slowly drizzle beaten eggs into the simmering broth while stirring for a silky, comforting texture.
  • Lemon Herb – Brighten the soup with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or basil.
  • Keto-Friendly – Replace traditional potstickers with cauliflower or zucchini dumplings for a low-carb alternative.
  • Seafood Delight – Toss in shrimp, scallops, or fish balls for an ocean-inspired take.
  • Hearty Veggie – Load up on bok choy, snap peas, and carrots for a nutrient-packed, plant-based version.
  • Beef & Bone Broth – Use a rich beef broth and add thinly sliced beef for a heartier, deeply flavorful variation.
  • Kimchi Fusion – Stir in chopped kimchi and a splash of soy sauce for a tangy, slightly spicy Korean-inspired upgrade.

Special Equipment

  • Large Pot: Essential for making broth and cooking dumplings.
  • Ladle: For serving up perfect portions.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing vegetables evenly.
  • Grater: To easily prepare fresh ginger.
  • Soup Bowls: Wide bowls help keep dumplings intact while eating.
  • Chopsticks or Soup Spoons: For an authentic dining experience.

FAQ Section

  1. What is Potsticker Soup?
    Potsticker Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines dumplings (potstickers) with a savory broth, vegetables, and seasonings.
  2. Can I use frozen potstickers for this soup?
    Yes! Frozen potstickers work perfectly for this soup. Just add them directly to the broth and cook according to the package instructions.
  3. What kind of broth should I use?
    A light chicken or vegetable broth is commonly used, but you can also use beef broth for a richer flavor.
  4. Can I make Potsticker Soup vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and vegetarian potstickers to keep the dish meat-free. You can also add tofu or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
  5. What vegetables go well in Potsticker Soup?
    Common choices include bok choy, spinach, napa cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables.
  6. How long does it take to cook Potsticker Soup?
    The soup typically takes about 15–20 minutes to make, depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen ingredients.
  7. Can I make this soup spicy?
    Yes! Add a dash of sriracha, chili flakes, or chili oil for a spicy kick. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
  8. How do I store leftovers?
    Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the potstickers may absorb liquid and become softer over time.
  9. Can I freeze Potsticker Soup?
    It’s best to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the potstickers. When ready to serve, heat the soup and add fresh or frozen potstickers to maintain their texture.
  10. What can I serve with Potsticker Soup?
    This soup is satisfying on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed rice, an Asian-style salad, or a light appetizer like spring rolls.

Conclusion

Potsticker Soup is a warm, comforting dish that transforms your favorite dumplings into a flavorful, broth-based meal! Juicy potstickers simmer in a savory, aromatic broth with tender veggies, fresh herbs, and a touch of spice for the perfect balance of flavors.

Customize it by adding bok choy or mushrooms for extra depth, a splash of soy sauce or chili oil for heat, or a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch. Serve it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal when you need something quick and delicious!

I can’t wait to see how your Potsticker Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this recipe your own!