If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and nutritious meal, this Yummy Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms and Bok Choy is the perfect choice. This dish is packed with umami flavors from mushrooms, tender dumplings, and fresh bok choy, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also low in carbs, high in protein, and keto-friendly, making it a great option for those following a healthy diet.
The beauty of this soup is its simplicity—it comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a fan of dumplings, love Asian-inspired flavors, or just need a hearty meal, this soup will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s easily customizable! You can swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs, making it suitable for vegetarians, gluten-free eaters, or those who prefer a spicier kick.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | ~250 per serving (varies by ingredients) |
| Protein | High |
| Low Carb | Yes (depends on dumpling type) |
| Keto-Friendly | Can be adjusted for keto |
| Gluten-Free | Can be made gluten-free |
| Dairy-Free | Yes |
| Vegan Option | Yes, with plant-based dumplings |
| Spicy Option | Can be adjusted with chili flakes |
Ingredients to Make Yummy Potsticker Soup With Mushrooms and Bok Choy
A flavorful soup starts with high-quality ingredients. This potsticker soup is made with a delicious broth, hearty mushrooms, fresh bok choy, and tasty dumplings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- Potstickers/Dumplings (8-10 pieces) – The heart of this soup! You can use store-bought or homemade dumplings filled with pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, opt for low-carb dumplings or skip them and add extra protein.
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Adds umami richness to the soup. Shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms work well. Shiitake gives an especially deep, earthy flavor.
- Bok Choy (2 cups, chopped) – A mild, slightly sweet leafy green that complements the dumplings and broth. Baby bok choy is tender and cooks quickly.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – Forms the base of the soup. Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness. Bone broth can add extra protein and nutrients.
- Ginger (1 tbsp, minced) – A key ingredient that adds warmth and depth of flavor. It also aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the aromatic quality of the soup, making it extra flavorful.
- Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Adds a salty umami boost. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – A small amount adds a nutty aroma that ties everything together.
- Green Onions (2 stalks, sliced) – Provides a mild onion flavor and a pop of color for garnish.
- Chili Flakes or Sriracha (optional) – If you like spice, a bit of heat takes this soup to another level.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- Egg (1, whisked) – If you like egg drop soup, slowly pour a beaten egg into the broth while stirring for a silky texture.
- Tofu (½ cup, cubed) – A great vegetarian protein addition.
- Noodles (½ cup, cooked separately) – If you’re not following a low-carb diet, adding rice noodles makes the soup heartier.
Steps to Make Potsticker Soup With Mushrooms and Bok Choy
Making this soup is quick and easy, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Follow these detailed steps for the best results.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather and prepare all your ingredients. Slice the mushrooms and bok choy into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic and ginger finely, and chop the green onions for garnish. If you’re using frozen dumplings, let them thaw slightly for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasoning
Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, now is the perfect time to add chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra spice.
Step 4: Cook the Potstickers
Gently drop the dumplings into the simmering broth, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not sticking together. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they become tender and start floating to the surface. If using fresh or homemade dumplings, they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them.
Step 5: Add Bok Choy and Finish the Soup
Once the dumplings are cooked, stir in the chopped bok choy. Let it cook for 2 minutes, just until it turns vibrant green and slightly tender. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning, adding more soy sauce or spice if desired.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls, making sure each bowl gets a generous amount of broth, dumplings, mushrooms, and bok choy. Sprinkle with fresh green onions and add a final drizzle of sesame oil for a rich, nutty aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting, flavorful Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms and Bok Choy!
Can We Make Potsticker Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this potsticker soup in advance, but there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain its freshness and texture. The key is to store the broth and dumplings separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
How to Make the Soup Ahead of Time
If you want to prepare this dish ahead, follow these steps:
- Make the broth in advance – Cook the broth with the mushrooms, bok choy, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and seasoning as per the recipe. Once it’s ready, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Store the dumplings separately – If using frozen potstickers, keep them frozen until you’re ready to cook the soup. If you’re using fresh or homemade dumplings, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Assemble when ready to serve – When you’re ready to eat, reheat the broth over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Add the dumplings and let them cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir in the bok choy at the last minute to retain its fresh color and crunch.
How to Store Pre-Made Soup
If you’ve already made the full soup and have leftovers, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: It’s best to freeze only the broth, as dumplings and bok choy tend to get mushy when frozen. If freezing, pour the broth into a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pre-Made Soup
To reheat, warm the soup over low heat in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency. Avoid microwaving dumplings directly, as they can become rubbery.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Potsticker Soup
Here are some expert tips to make your potsticker soup with mushrooms and bok choy even more delicious and foolproof.
1. Use High-Quality Broth
The broth is the foundation of the soup, so opt for homemade broth or a good-quality store-bought version. If you have time, simmering bone broth for extra depth of flavor is a great option. For a vegetarian version, use a rich miso or mushroom broth.
2. Cook Dumplings Properly
To ensure the best texture, don’t overcook the dumplings. They should be tender but not mushy. If you’re using frozen potstickers, drop them directly into the simmering broth without thawing to prevent them from falling apart.
3. Add Bok Choy at the End
Bok choy cooks very quickly, so add it in the last 2 minutes of cooking to keep it fresh, bright green, and slightly crisp. Overcooking will make it mushy and lose its nutritional value.
4. Customize the Flavors
Make the soup your own by adjusting the ingredients:
- Add chili oil, sriracha, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Stir in a beaten egg for a silky, egg-drop-style broth.
- Add tofu or shredded chicken for extra protein.
5. Avoid a Greasy Soup
If using meat-based dumplings, some fat may release into the broth. To prevent an oily texture, let the broth sit for a few minutes after cooking and skim off any excess oil before serving.
6. Serve Immediately for Best Texture
Dumplings taste best when fresh. If left in the soup for too long, they absorb the broth and become too soft. Serve the soup immediately after cooking to enjoy the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions for Potsticker soup
Potsticker soup is a hearty and flavorful dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and garnishes can elevate the experience. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or as part of a larger Asian-inspired feast, here are some great ways to enjoy it.
1. Garnishes for Extra Flavor
Enhance the soup by adding fresh toppings just before serving. Some great options include:
- Chopped green onions – Adds a mild onion flavor and color.
- Sesame seeds – Brings a slight crunch and nutty taste.
- Chili oil or sriracha – Perfect for those who love spice.
- Crispy garlic or shallots – Provides a crunchy texture and deep umami flavor.
- A squeeze of lime – Adds a refreshing citrusy brightness.
2. Side Dishes to Serve with Potsticker Soup
If you want to make the meal more filling, consider pairing the soup with complementary sides:
- Steamed Rice – A bowl of jasmine or brown rice helps soak up the flavorful broth.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds extra nutrients and crunch.
- Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls – Crispy and flavorful, they pair well with the lightness of the soup.
- Asian Slaw – A tangy, refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing balances the richness of the broth.
- Steamed or Baked Buns – Soft bao buns filled with pork, chicken, or tofu are a delicious accompaniment.
3. Making It a Full Meal
For a more protein-packed meal, consider adding:
- Soft-boiled eggs – A runny yolk adds creaminess to the broth.
- Tofu or Tempeh – Cubed tofu or tempeh makes the soup more substantial for vegetarians.
- Extra dumplings – If serving for dinner, increasing the dumpling portion makes it more filling.
Variations of Potsticker Soup
One of the best things about potsticker soup is how versatile it is. You can customize it to fit different dietary needs, spice levels, and flavor preferences. Below are some delicious variations to try.
1. Spicy Potsticker Soup
If you love heat, add a spicy kick by incorporating:
- Chili flakes or chili oil – Stir it into the broth for a warming heat.
- Sriracha or gochujang – These add depth of flavor with a spicy and slightly tangy taste.
- Fresh jalapeños or Thai chilies – Slice thinly and add for an extra fiery boost.
2. Creamy Coconut Potsticker Soup
For a rich and creamy version, replace part of the broth with coconut milk. This gives the soup a Thai-inspired twist and pairs well with:
- Lemongrass and lime leaves – Adds freshness and an aromatic touch.
- Curry paste – Red or green curry paste infuses the broth with bold flavors.
- Shrimp dumplings – Works great with the coconut-based broth.
3. Low-Carb/Keto Potsticker Soup
To make this soup more keto-friendly, you can:
- Use homemade low-carb dumplings made with almond flour or cabbage wraps.
- Increase the protein by adding shredded chicken, beef, or tofu.
- Reduce the soy sauce and replace it with coconut aminos to lower the carb content.
4. Vegetarian/Vegan Potsticker Soup
For a completely plant-based version, swap out the ingredients as follows:
- Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Vegan dumplings filled with tofu, mushrooms, and cabbage.
- Miso paste added to the broth for a deep umami flavor.
- Extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or baby corn for more texture.
5. Miso Potsticker Soup
For a Japanese-style twist, mix miso paste into the broth instead of soy sauce. This version works well with:
- Seaweed strips for extra umami.
- Soft tofu cubes for added protein.
- Soba or shirataki noodles if you want a more filling option.
6. Broth Variations
You can experiment with different broth bases to create unique flavors:
- Bone broth for a collagen-rich, nutrient-dense version.
- Tomato-based broth for a tangy, slightly sweet alternative.
- Dashi broth for a light, smoky Japanese-inspired flavor.
How to Store Potsticker soup
Potsticker soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. However, to maintain the best texture and flavor, proper storage methods are essential.
1. Storing Leftover Soup
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Separate the Dumplings: Dumplings tend to absorb liquid and become soggy over time. If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to keep the dumplings separate from the broth and store them in a different container.
- Vegetables Stay Best When Fresh: Bok choy and mushrooms can soften too much if left in the soup for too long. If making in advance, add fresh vegetables when reheating.
2. Freezing Potsticker Soup
Potsticker soup can be frozen, but there are some things to keep in mind:
- Freeze the broth separately: The dumplings may become too soft and break apart when thawed. Instead, freeze just the broth and add fresh dumplings when reheating.
- Use freezer-safe containers: Store the broth in glass jars, airtight containers, or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 2 months: While the broth stays good for longer, it’s best to consume it within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
3. How to Thaw and Reheat Frozen Soup
- Refrigerator thawing: Let the frozen soup defrost in the fridge overnight.
- Stovetop reheating: Pour the thawed broth into a pot and bring it to a simmer. Add fresh dumplings and vegetables, cooking until heated through.
- Microwave option: Reheat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. However, stovetop reheating is preferred for better texture.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dumplings instead of homemade?
Yes! Store-bought dumplings or potstickers work great in this soup. Look for ones with your preferred filling, whether chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetarian.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free:
- Use gluten-free dumplings (many stores carry options made with rice flour wrappers).
- Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Ensure the broth you use is labeled gluten-free.
3. Can I add noodles to the soup?
Absolutely! If you want a heartier meal, try adding:
- Rice noodles (light and gluten-free)
- Egg noodles (for a richer texture)
- Shirataki noodles (low-carb, keto-friendly option)
4. What other proteins can I add?
This soup is versatile and pairs well with different proteins, such as:
- Shredded chicken or turkey
- Cubed tofu (for a vegetarian option)
- Sliced beef or pork
- Shrimp or seafood
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make potsticker soup in a slow cooker:
- Add the broth, seasonings, and vegetables and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Add the dumplings 30 minutes before serving so they don’t overcook.
6. How can I thicken the broth?
If you prefer a thicker broth, try these methods:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water, then stir it into the soup.
- Simmer longer to naturally reduce the broth.
- Add a bit of coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Conclusion
Potsticker soup is a warm, comforting, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its flavorful broth, tender dumplings, and fresh vegetables, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can make it spicy, creamy, keto-friendly, vegetarian, or gluten-free.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a quick and easy dinner, this soup is a must-try. Store it properly, reheat it with care, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup whenever you need something cozy and satisfying.
