In the realm of culinary efficiency, this Easy Dumpling Soup stands out as a shining example of simplicity without compromising on flavor. The recipe’s brilliance lies not only in its ease of preparation but also in the careful orchestration of ingredients that work together harmoniously. With just 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, this soup manages to weave a tapestry of Asian-inspired tastes that are both comforting and satisfying.
The broth serves as the soul of this culinary masterpiece, bringing together the umami notes of vegetable broth, the salty depth of soy sauce, and the fragrant allure of toasted sesame oil. The optional addition of fish sauce introduces a subtle layer of complexity, elevating the overall flavor profile. As the pot comes to a rolling boil, the introduction of frozen dumplings adds substance to the soup, transforming it into a hearty and authentic dish. The choice of dumpling flavor, be it pork, vegetable, or chicken, allows for personalization, while the cooking process ensures that each dumpling is perfectly cooked, rendering a tender and flavorful bite.
Flexibility is a key feature of this recipe, accommodating an array of proteins, from tofu to pre-cooked meats, and a variety of fresh or frozen vegetables. The green and white parts of sliced green onions, along with a generous handful of fresh spinach, contribute not only to the visual appeal of the soup but also infuse it with a burst of vibrancy and freshness. These elements, combined with the optional garnishes of sesame seeds and Sichuan Chili Crisp, offer a customizable experience for those who enjoy a hint of spice and added texture.
Beyond its culinary prowess, the Easy Dumpling Soup is a champion of budget-friendly dining. With a total cost of $2.98 or $1.49 per serving, it proves that culinary excellence need not be accompanied by a hefty price tag. In essence, this recipe is a testament to the idea that with a few simple ingredients and a well-thought-out process, a bowl of soul-warming, restaurant-worthy soup can be created in the comfort of one’s kitchen. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this Easy Dumpling Soup beckons with the promise of a quick, affordable, and utterly delicious dining experience.
Easy Dumpling Soup
Easy Dumpling Soup is the perfect quick dinner because it’s endlessly versatile, insanely budget-friendly, and can be made in 15 minutes.
Prep Time5minutes mins
Cook Time10minutes mins
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean
Total Cost: $2.98 RECIPE / $1.49 SERVING
Servings: 2 bowls
Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth* $0.24
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce $0.06
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil $0.06
- 1/4 tsp fish sauce, optional $0.02
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated $0.11
- 10 frozen dumplings** $2.00
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach*** $0.15
Garnishes, optional
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds $0.03
- 1 Tbsp Sichuan Chili Crisp $0.31
Instructions
- Combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and the white parts of a sliced green onion in a medium-sized pot. (If using, also add the fish sauce, pre-cooked proteins or tofu, and any fresh or frozen vegetables that need time to soften.)
- Bring the broth up to a boil on medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the dumplings.
- Cover the pot and allow the soup to come back up to a boil. Boil the dumplings for about 2 minutes or until they are cooked through. (Consult package directions.)
- Turn off the heat and stir in the green parts of the sliced green onion and a handful of spinach.
- Split the soup into 2 serving bowls and top with any desired condiments.
Notes
* We use Better Than Bouillon mixed to make all of our broths. If substituted with a low-sodium broth, the final dish may need more salt.
** You can use any flavor (pork, vegetable, chicken, etc.), but I prefer ones with pork and vegetables.
*** or baby bok choy
Nutrition
Serving: 1bowl of soup | Calories: 290kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 9g | Sodium: 1809mg | Fiber: 3g