Spicy Dumpling Soup

Instructions

This spicy dumpling soup is one of our favorite ways to turn dumplings into a deeply cozy, restaurant-worthy meal. Savory dumplings, aromatic broth, and chili oil tying it all together. Best part? It still comes together fast.

Your cooking method depends on the dumpling you’re using, so we’ve laid it out clearly below.

Cook dumplings 

Pan Fry

1. 1. Heat oil (enough to coat bottom of pan) in non-stick pan over medium heat.
   2. Place dumplings flat-side down. 1 inch apart. Cook 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
   3. Add ¼ cup water, cover immediately. 
      Steam covered for about 3 minutes, KEEP MOVING THE PAN.
   4. Uncover - KEEP SWIRLING THE PAN - pro tip if it seems like all your oil is gone, it is. Add a little more so they don’t stick.
      Continue cooking on medium heat until  flat-side is browned.
   5. Build the broth while the dumplings finish cooking.

Total dumpling cook time: 11 minutes.

Steam (suggested if you’re using soup dumplings)

Soup dumplings contain broth inside, so we recommend steaming.

Build the broth

1. While the dumplings cook, add the broth, garlic, and ginger to a small pot.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Stir in soy sauce, miso (if using), and sesame oil.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning — the broth should be savory and aromatic, not bland.

Assemble the soup

1. Spoon chili oil into your serving bowl (start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste).

2. Add the cooked dumplings to the bowl.

3. Pour the hot broth over top and let the chili oil/chili paste bloom.

4. Finish with scallions or any toppings you like.

Tips & Variations

• Soup dumplings should be steamed — pan-frying can cause them to leak.

• Miso adds depth and umami without overpowering the dumplings.

• For a richer bowl, add a splash of dumpling steaming liquid to the broth.

• Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to preserve flavor.