Dumpling Soup

On nights when you barely have time to chop an onion, this dumpling soup comes swooping in to save the day. Why? Because it's a filling, cozy, soul-soothing meal that is on the table in under 20 minutes! You can never have too many family meal ideas to lean on, and dinner doesn’t get much simpler than grabbing a bag of frozen potstickers and simmering them in a pot of flavorful broth. It comes together quicker than you can order takeout! With mini dumplings swimming in a creamy miso broth, this is one of the best kid-friendly recipes you can bring to the dinner table. The bonus? It's packed with veggies, so you can feel good about serving it, too.

What is dumpling soup?

As long as there are dumplings floating in a delicious broth, it counts as dumpling soup! You start by sautéing carrot, green onion, garlic, and ground ginger in a combination of vegetable oil and nutty sesame oil. Super-flavorful miso is then whisked into chicken or vegetable broth to create a pleasantly salty, creamy base. Frozen dumplings—a true weeknight hero—are added to the broth and turn tender in minutes. Before you know it, it’s time to stir in a handful of spinach and a splash of soy sauce, grab some bowls, and dig in.

What kind of dumplings are best for dumpling soup?

For this recipe, you can use any sort of Asian-inspired mini dumplings, potstickers, or wontons. Most grocery stores carry at least one option in the freezer section. Just be sure to choose mini or small dumplings rather than larger ones so you get some in every bite!

What's the difference between potstickers and dumplings?

Potstickers are a specific type of dumpling—typically filled, pan-fried and then steamed and commonly found in Chinese cuisine. Dumpling is a much broader term and many foods from around the world fall under its umbrella. Some dumplings are filled, like potstickers, cheese pierogi (as in this pierogi and kielbasa sheet pan dinner), and apple dumplings. Others are unfilled, such as the drop-style dough dumplings in classic chicken and dumplings.

Is dumpling soup healthy?

Made with simple ingredients like spinach, carrots, and broth, dumpling soup is packed with vegetables and nutrients. Depending on the dumplings you choose, it can also provide a good source of protein, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Is dumpling soup spicy?

Not unless you want it to be! This dumpling soup recipe is not spicy on its own, which makes it a very family-friendly recipe. For those who enjoy a little kick, try stirring in a spoonful of chili oil or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.

What's the best way to store leftover dumpling soup?

If you have leftover dumpling soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Can you freeze dumpling soup?

Yes, but if you plan to freeze the soup, don't add the dumplings. The soup can be made completely—without the dumplings—and frozen for up to three months. Let the soup thaw in the fridge overnight if possible, then reheat it on the stove, adding the dumplings once the soup is hot, about five minutes before serving. If you were to freeze the soup with the dumplings, it could impact the texture of the dumplings.

Is there miso paste in dumpling soup?

Yes, this recipe calls for white miso, which is less fermented than yellow or red miso and therefore slightly sweeter and less salty. Miso is made from soybeans and rice, and while not all dumpling soup recipes call for it, it gives this version body and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

What goes well in dumpling soup?

There's plenty of room for variation in this soup. Add sliced mushrooms with the carrots for a hearty addition or stir in cubed silken tofu with the spinach. You can also bulk up the soup with extra broth and long, al dente noodles. A nice drizzle of chili oil and a jammy, medium-boiled egg would also be scrumptious.