Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that comes together in under half an hour, Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine soft, steamy dumplings bobbing in a rich, savory broth, with vibrant bok choy adding both color and crunch. This Asian-inspired soup is everything you crave on a chilly evening: comforting, nourishing, and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re a dumpling devotee or just want to sneak in more greens, this one-pot wonder is bound to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup is in its simplicity—every ingredient serves a delicious purpose! From the aromatic base to the hearty dumplings and fresh greens, each component works in harmony to deliver a bowl full of flavor and texture.
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty, toasty aroma that forms the foundation of the soup.
- Garlic (minced): Brings a punch of savory depth—freshly minced is best!
- Fresh ginger (grated): Gives the broth warmth and a hint of spice that brightens everything up.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Acts as the soup’s flavorful base; low-sodium lets you control the saltiness.
- Soy sauce: Delivers umami and that classic savory note essential for depth.
- Rice vinegar: A splash of tangy acidity to balance the richness of the broth.
- Chili garlic sauce (optional): For a gentle kick of heat and extra complexity—use as much or as little as you like.
- Frozen dumplings (pork, chicken, or veggie): The star of the show—choose your favorite variety for a custom twist.
- Baby bok choy (halved or chopped): Adds freshness, green color, and tender-crisp texture to every spoonful.
- Green onions (sliced): Sprinkle these on top for a burst of color and mellow onion flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your liking for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Toasted sesame seeds and extra chili oil for garnish (optional): These finishing touches add crunch and a subtle heat—totally worth it!
How to Make Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until everything smells gloriously fragrant. This quick step infuses the oil and sets the stage for a rich, flavorful broth.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, letting it pick up all those garlicky, gingery bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a spoonful of chili garlic sauce if you’re craving a little heat. The broth should already be smelling irresistible!
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Add your frozen dumplings straight into the simmering broth—no need to thaw. Let them bubble gently for 6 to 8 minutes (or according to the package instructions) until they’re fully heated through and floating on the surface. This method gently cooks the dumplings while infusing their flavor into the soup.
Step 4: Add the Bok Choy
For the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, slip in the halved or chopped baby bok choy. Simmer until the greens are just wilted and still bright. This timing ensures the bok choy stays tender-crisp and doesn’t lose its lovely green color.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Taste your Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure everyone gets plenty of dumplings and greens. Top with sliced green onions, and if you like, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra flourish.
How to Serve Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup
Garnishes
A handful of sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds make every bowl of Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup look restaurant-worthy. For a punch of flavor and color, a swirl of chili oil or a few fresh cilantro leaves are also fantastic options. These little touches elevate your soup from simple to sensational.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with a side of steamed rice, crispy spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced, satisfying meal. If you’re especially hungry, serve with some stir-fried noodles or edamame. The soup is hearty on its own, but these sides turn dinner into a feast!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup in large mugs for a cozy lunch or casual gathering. Or, portion it into small bowls as a starter for an Asian-inspired dinner party. Garnish each bowl a little differently—think chili flakes, a wedge of lime, or even a soft-boiled egg for extra protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container, and the flavors will meld together even more overnight. Just be gentle when reheating to keep the dumplings from getting too soft.
Freezing
Want to stash some soup for another day? Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. The broth and veggies freeze well, but keep in mind that dumplings may soften a bit after thawing—still delicious, but just slightly different in texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the broth has thickened or reduced, add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency. Microwave reheating works, too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts, stirring between each.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dumplings instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade dumplings are a wonderful way to customize your Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup. Just add them to the simmering broth and cook until they’re fully cooked through, adjusting the time as needed.
What’s the best broth to use for this soup?
Both chicken and vegetable broth work beautifully. If you prefer a lighter flavor, go with vegetable broth. For a richer, more savory base, low-sodium chicken broth is the way to go.
Can I add noodles or tofu for a heartier meal?
Definitely! Stir in some cooked noodles or cubed tofu during the last couple of minutes for an extra-filling bowl. It’s a great way to stretch the soup and add even more texture.
Is Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but you can dial up the heat by adding more chili garlic sauce or a drizzle of chili oil on top. It’s easy to customize based on your spice preference.
How do I keep the bok choy bright and tender?
Add the bok choy right at the end of cooking and simmer just until it wilts. This way, it stays vibrant and retains a bit of crunch, making every spoonful more interesting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a bowl of homemade Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup—simple ingredients, quick prep, and so much comfort in every bite. If you’ve never tried making it at home, now’s the perfect time. Gather your favorite dumplings, grab some fresh bok choy, and treat yourself to this nourishing, flavor-packed soup. You’re going to love it!
Print
Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Dumpling and Bok Choy Soup features tender dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of chili. Fresh baby bok choy adds a vibrant crunch, making it a cozy and nutritious Asian-inspired meal perfect for weeknights or chilly days.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 12–16 frozen dumplings (pork, chicken, or veggie)
- 3–4 cups baby bok choy, halved or chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Extra chili oil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring they do not burn to maintain a fresh flavor.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the low-sodium broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce if using, blending the flavors well.
- Cook Dumplings: Add the frozen dumplings to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, typically 6–8 minutes, or until the dumplings are heated through and floating, indicating they are ready.
- Add Bok Choy: In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the baby bok choy to the pot. Allow it to wilt and become tender but still vibrant green.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with sliced green onions. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil if desired. Serve hot for the best experience.
Notes
- Use any variety of dumplings—store-bought or homemade—to suit your preference.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked noodles or tofu to the soup.
- Leftovers store well and reheat easily the next day, making it convenient for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
