This Asian Potsticker Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, bringing together tender chicken dumplings, fragrant ginger, and a savory broth with soy and sesame undertones. Each spoonful is packed with warmth, making it a cozy yet light meal perfect for any season. The vibrant colors from the Napa cabbage, carrots, and green onions add a beautiful contrast to the golden broth, creating an irresistible visual and culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick 30-minute dinner or a soul-soothing bowl on a chilly evening, this soup delivers a balance of flavors and textures. The potstickers add heartiness, while the delicate broth keeps it light. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and guaranteed to impress both family and friends with its restaurant-quality taste. Pair it with a side of crispy wontons or a fresh Asian salad for a complete meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 16 ounces frozen chicken potstickers (1 package)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
Directions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Sear the bottoms of the frozen potstickers in batches until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, carrots, and celery. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add Napa cabbage, seared potstickers, and green onions to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the cabbage softens and the potstickers are heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 138 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes This Soup Special?
One of the best aspects of Asian Potsticker Soup is its simplicity and versatility. Instead of making dumplings from scratch, this recipe uses frozen potstickers, which significantly cuts down on prep time while still delivering authentic flavors. The soup itself is a one-pot meal, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. Despite its ease of preparation, this dish is packed with complex flavors, making it taste like something you would order from a high-end Asian restaurant.
The combination of fresh vegetables, such as Napa cabbage, carrots, and green onions, adds texture and nutrients to the dish, making it not just flavorful but also wholesome. The broth, infused with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger, provides a deep and slightly tangy base that enhances the dumplings’ richness. A drizzle of sesame oil at the end ties everything together with a subtle nuttiness, making each bite a delight.
A Brief History of Potstickers
Potstickers, also known as “guo tie” (锅贴) in Chinese, have been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. According to legend, they were accidentally invented when a chef left dumplings cooking in a pan for too long, causing them to stick to the bottom and develop a crispy texture. Instead of discarding them, he served them as they were, and they quickly became a beloved dish in Chinese culinary culture.
Traditionally, potstickers are pan-fried and then steamed to create a crispy bottom and a tender, juicy filling. They are commonly stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, such as pork or chicken, along with vegetables and seasonings. While they are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer with dipping sauces, this recipe transforms them into a main course by incorporating them into a flavorful soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Since the recipe uses frozen potstickers, there’s no need to make dumplings from scratch, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Meal – Everything is cooked in a single pot, which means fewer dishes to wash and a straightforward cooking process.
- Rich and Flavorful Broth – The combination of chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger creates a deeply satisfying soup base.
- Customizable – You can easily switch up the protein by using pork, beef, shrimp, or even vegetarian potstickers. Additional vegetables can also be added based on your preferences.
- Nutritious and Filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup is a well-balanced meal that nourishes the body while satisfying cravings.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
While this recipe is already full of flavor, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking:
- Vegetarian Option – Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use vegetarian potstickers to make a completely plant-based version.
- Spicy Kick – Add a drizzle of chili oil or a spoonful of sriracha to give the broth some heat.
- Extra Protein – Toss in shredded chicken, tofu, or even a soft-boiled egg to make the dish even heartier.
- Different Dumplings – While this recipe uses chicken potstickers, you can experiment with pork, shrimp, or beef potstickers for a new flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
Asian Potsticker Soup is a fantastic standalone dish, but if you want to make a more complete meal, consider pairing it with:
- Crispy Sesame Chicken – A sweet and savory chicken dish that complements the lightness of the soup.
- Steamed White or Brown Rice – To soak up the delicious broth.
- Asian Slaw or Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side dish that adds a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
- Spring Rolls or Dumplings – If you’re looking for a feast, add another dumpling dish on the side!
How to Store and Reheat
This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later:
- Refrigerate – Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – If you want to make a larger batch, freeze the broth separately from the potstickers. The dumplings may become too soft if frozen directly in the soup.
- Reheat – Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if needed. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the dumplings to break apart.
Tips for Making the Best Potsticker Soup
- Sear the Potstickers First – Browning the dumplings before adding them to the broth enhances their texture and prevents them from falling apart.
- Don’t Overcook the Dumplings – Once the potstickers are added to the soup, they only need about 10 minutes to heat through. Cooking them for too long can cause them to become mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions add an authentic and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Balance the Saltiness – Since soy sauce can be salty, opt for a low-sodium version and adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Conclusion:
Asian Potsticker Soup is a must-try dish for anyone who loves dumplings and comforting soups. With its easy preparation, deep flavors, and warming qualities, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a cold day or looking for a quick dinner idea, this soup will surely satisfy.
So the next time you have a pack of frozen potstickers in your freezer, consider turning them into this delightful soup instead of just pan-frying them. Not only will it elevate your dumpling experience, but it will also introduce you to a new way to enjoy one of Asia’s most beloved foods. Try it today and discover why this simple yet delicious soup has become a favorite for so many!