Can I cook the potstickers separately?

Yes. If you want the dumplings a little firmer, you can simmer the broth and veggies first, then cook the potstickers in a separate pot of broth or water. Add them to each bowl right before serving.

Do I need to thaw the frozen potstickers?

No thawing needed. Add them to the gently simmering broth straight from the freezer and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8–10 minutes.

Can I make this comforting potsticker soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth and choose veggie potstickers. Everything else in the recipe stays the same, and you still get a flavorful, cozy bowl of dumpling soup.

How spicy is this soup?

The base recipe is mild with a gentle warmth from ginger. The chili garlic sauce is optional, so you can leave it out for a mild bowl or add more for a spicier kick.

Comforting Potsticker Soup (A Hug in a Bowl)

Description

This cozy potsticker soup is a hug in a bowl — full of tender dumplings, fragrant broth, and loads of veggies. It’s quick, customizable, and better-than-takeout comfort food made at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or canola)
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into thin coins
2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1–2 tsp chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional)
1 (16–20 oz) bag frozen potstickers or gyoza (pork, chicken, or veggie)
2 cups shredded napa cabbage or coleslaw mix
2 cups baby spinach or chopped bok choy
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, lime wedges, chili oil or chili crisp

Instructions

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and ginger. Stir and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce (if using). Bring to a gentle boil.
Add frozen potstickers. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 8–10 minutes until dumplings are tender.
Stir in napa cabbage and spinach. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Season with salt and pepper. Add extra soy sauce if desired.
Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime. Serve hot.

Notes

Use any kind of frozen potstickers you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, choose veggie dumplings and use vegetable broth. To adjust spice level, add more or less chili garlic sauce to taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 310
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: potsticker soup, dumpling soup, cozy meals, fall dinner, weeknight dinner