Potsticker Soup is a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms, ginger, and garlic with tender, savory potstickers. With a base of vegetable broth infused with soy sauce, and a touch of toasted sesame oil, this soup offers a delightful blend of Asian-inspired flavors. The addition of bok choy and scallions adds freshness, while optional toppings like chili crisp or toasted sesame seeds elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons grated or minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 16 to 20 ounces frozen potstickers
- 5 scallions, thinly sliced and divided
- 3 baby bok choy, ends trimmed off and leaves separated
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, furikake seasoning, fried garlic
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics
- Heat the Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add 8 ounces of thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with 2 tablespoons grated ginger and 4 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic and ginger become fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
- Add Broth and Soy Sauce: Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth and 2 tablespoons soy sauce, stirring to combine the flavors.
- Bring to a Boil: Continue heating until the broth comes to a gentle boil.
- Add Potstickers and Vegetables: Carefully add 16-20 ounces of frozen potstickers, half of the sliced scallions, and 3 baby bok choy (separated leaves) to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Potstickers
- Cook the Potstickers: Allow the potstickers to cook in the simmering broth for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender and fully heated through.
- Add Sesame Oil and Season: Stir in 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil and a few twists of freshly-ground black pepper. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or black pepper as needed.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining scallions.
- Add Toppings: Add any of your favorite optional toppings such as chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, furikake seasoning, or fried garlic for extra flavor.
Variations
- Protein Addition: Add thinly sliced tofu or cooked shredded chicken to make the soup more filling.
- Spicy Twist: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the broth for a spicy kick.
- Different Potstickers: Use vegetable, chicken, or pork potstickers based on your preference.
Cooking Notes
- Sautéing the Mushrooms: Make sure the mushrooms are well-browned to bring out their umami flavor.
- Adjusting Broth Flavor: Adjust the saltiness of the broth with more or less soy sauce based on your taste preference.
- Potsticker Cooking Tip: Stir the pot gently when adding the potstickers to avoid breaking them apart during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup with a side of steamed rice or fried rice for a more complete meal.
- Pair it with a light Asian-style salad like cucumber salad or a seaweed salad.
Tips
- Make Ahead: The soup can be prepared in advance, but add the potstickers just before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the potstickers.
- Freeze-Friendly: If freezing, do so without the potstickers, then add them fresh when reheating.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal (varies based on potstickers used)
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 10g
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh potstickers instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh potstickers, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I substitute the shiitake mushrooms with another variety?
A: Absolutely! Cremini or button mushrooms work well if shiitake is not available.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Conclusion
Potsticker Soup is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a hearty bowl of comfort. With a rich broth, tender potstickers, and a variety of toppings to customize, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy this warming dish with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice!