Name: Easy Potsticker Soup – Comfort in Every Cozy Spoonful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Can substitute with vegetable or canola oil.); 1 medium Onion (Chopped, preferably yellow or white.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced; garlic powder can be used.); 2 medium Carrots (Sliced; parsnips can be substituted.); 1 stalk Celery (Chopped; optional.); 4 cups Water (Can substitute with vegetable broth.); 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base (Enhances flavor; can omit if using broth.); 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Optional for spice; adjust to taste.); 2 cups Curly Kale (Can substitute with spinach.); 8 pieces Vegetable Potstickers (Any preferred brand like Trader Joe's.); 2 stalks Green Onion (Sliced; can substitute with regular onion.)

On a chilly evening, as the wind howls outside, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of soup. My Easy Potsticker Soup brings the comfort of tender dumplings swimming in a savory broth to your table in just 30 minutes. This delightful semi-homemade recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to indulge in a hearty meal without the fuss. Packed with colorful vegetables like kale and carrots, it’s not just nourishing—it’s also a vegan crowd-pleaser that even non-vegans will love. Plus, it accommodates your spice preferences with a kick of gochujang or a milder touch if that’s more your style. Are you ready to create a cozy dish that warms both heart and home? Let’s dive into this delightful kitchen adventure!

Why is Easy Potsticker Soup so special?

Comforting Warmth: This Easy Potsticker Soup is your go-to dish when the weather turns chilly, creating a soothing bowl of nourishment that wraps you in warmth.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this semi-homemade recipe is the ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Flexible Flavor: Adjust the spice level by adding gochujang or keep it mellow—there’s room for everyone’s taste buds.
Veggie Packed: Filled with nutritious vegetables like kale and carrots, it’s a hearty meal that keeps you satisfied while remaining vegan-friendly.
Crowd-Pleaser: This soup isn’t just good for you; it’s so delicious that non-vegans will ask for seconds! Perfectly pairs with options like vegan fried rice for a complete meal.
Unique Twist: The addition of frozen potstickers adds a delightful chewiness that transforms your dining experience—say goodbye to boring soups!

Easy Potsticker Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Avocado Oil – A neutral cooking oil perfect for sautéing; substitute vegetable or canola oil if needed.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and aroma to the soup; use yellow or white onion for best results.
• Garlic – Provides a robust flavor; freshly minced garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works too.
• Carrots – Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish; parsnips can be used for a different flavor.
• Celery – Contributes to the vegetable base; feel free to omit if you prefer.
• Water – The liquid base for the soup; substituting with vegetable broth adds extra flavor.
• Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base – Enhances depth of flavor; you can use vegetable broth instead of water and bouillon for a simpler approach.
• Gochujang (optional) – Adds a spicy kick; you can adjust the amount to your personal taste, or omit it for a milder broth.
• Curly Kale – Packed with nutrition and adds great texture; spinach is a worthy substitute.

For the Dumplings
• Vegetable Potstickers (8 pieces) – The star of the dish; feel free to choose any preferred brand like Trader Joe’s Thai Vegetable Gyoza.

For Garnishing
• Green Onion – Adds a fresh touch when garnished; you can replace it with regular onion for a stronger flavor.

This Easy Potsticker Soup is not only a quick comfort meal but also allows for personalized flavor adjustments to suit your taste!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Potsticker Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add one chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves along with 2 sliced carrots and 1 stalk of chopped celery. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Pour in 4 cups of water or vegetable broth, then add 1 tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon No Chicken Base and stir well. If you enjoy a spicy kick, mix in 1 tablespoon of gochujang at this point. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Greens
Fold in 2 cups of curly kale into the simmering broth. The vibrant color and nutrients from the kale will brighten the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, gently stirring to help the kale wilt down. You should see the broth taking on a rich color and a delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Prepare the Potstickers
For your dumplings, you have three cooking options. To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then cook 8 frozen vegetable potstickers for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, brown one side of the potstickers in a skillet for 3 minutes, then add a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes until heated through. If you prefer a quicker method, directly add the frozen potstickers to the simmering soup and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot Easy Potsticker Soup into bowls, ensuring each bowl receives 2 potstickers. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a pop of flavor and color. Enjoy this warming soup immediately, relishing the delightful blend of tender dumplings and savory broth in every cozy spoonful.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Potsticker Soup components are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, and kale) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Additionally, you can pre-cook the potstickers (air-fry, steam, or add to the soup) and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and greens, then add the potstickers, cooking until warm. This way, you’ll have a heartwarming Vegan Potsticker Soup that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort required for a cozy meal!

Easy Potsticker Soup Variations

Customize your Easy Potsticker Soup to make it uniquely yours! With just a sprinkle of creativity, you can elevate the flavors or cater to different dietary needs.

Vegetable Swap: Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a different green touch. Each green brings a unique flavor profile, keeping the soup fresh and exciting.
Flavor Boost: Add fresh ginger to the sauté for an aromatic zing. It lends a warm, warming spice that enhances the overall depth of your soup.
Creamy Twist: Stir in coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor. This addition brings a new dimension to the broth that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free dumplings to accommodate dietary restrictions. Many brands offer delicious options that won’t compromise on taste.
Extra Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding more gochujang or a drizzle of chili oil right before serving. Your soup can take on a fiery personality that will warm you to your core!
Umami Boost: Toss in a handful of shiitake mushrooms for an earthy flavor. They can elevate the taste profile and add a lovely chewy texture to each bite.
Nutty Finish: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. This simple touch adds both texture and flavor, making each spoonful a bit more delightful.
Protein Punch: Add cubed tofu for a heartier soup. It soaks up flavors well and provides a satisfying protein boost, perfect for a filling meal.

Feel free to let your creativity flow in your kitchen. This Easy Potsticker Soup is ready to adapt to your taste preferences! If you’re in the mood for more quick and nutritious dishes, consider pairing your soup with a side of vegan fried rice or enjoying it with a slice of Zucchini Flatbread Herbs for a complete and satisfying meal!

Tips for the Best Easy Potsticker Soup

• Perfect Texture: Air fry your potstickers for 8-10 minutes to achieve a delightful crispiness. Adjust cooking times based on your air fryer for best results.

• Avoid Sogginess: Remove potstickers before refrigerating leftovers to prevent them from absorbing the broth and becoming mushy.

• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix it up! Substitute kale with bok choy or mushrooms for different textures and flavors in your easy potsticker soup.

• Monitoring Spice: Add gochujang gradually to tailor the spice level to your preference, ensuring that everyone enjoys their bowl of soup.

• Flavorful Substitutions: Boost the soup’s flavor by swapping out water with vegetable broth or using fresh herbs for a vibrant twist.

What to Serve with Easy Potsticker Soup

Savor every spoonful of warmth from your Easy Potsticker Soup while complementing it with delightful side dishes that enhance the dining experience.

Vegan Fried Rice: A vibrant mix of veggies and grains that adds heartiness, making the meal even more filling.
Simple Side Salad: Crisp greens dressed in a light vinaigrette can provide refreshing contrast to the rich broth.
Steamed Edamame: These salty, protein-packed pods offer a fun and healthy finger food to enjoy alongside your soup.
Chili Garlic Noodles: A twist of spicy and garlicky flavors in this noodle dish creates a warming and satisfying combo with the soup.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden delights add crunch and additional flavors that harmonize beautifully with the comforting soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm, and infused with garlic, they’re perfect for dipping into the savory broth or soaking up the last drops.
Coconut Milk Smoothie: A creamy, sweet beverage that rounds out your meal while providing a refreshing contrast to the savory elements.

Each of these pairings not only complements the soothing flavors of your Easy Potsticker Soup but also transforms a cozy dish into a festive feast, perfect for any occasion!

Storage Tips for Easy Potsticker Soup

Fridge: Keep your Easy Potsticker Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors and maintains the freshness of the vegetables.

Separate Storage: Store the potstickers separately from the soup to avoid sogginess. Doing this keeps their delightful texture intact for your next meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without potstickers) in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to regain the soup’s original consistency. Enjoy every cozy spoonful!

Easy Potsticker Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potstickers should I use for this recipe?
You can use any brand of vegetable potstickers, but I highly recommend Trader Joe’s Thai Vegetable Gyoza for their delightful flavor and texture. Feel free to choose frozen potstickers that match your taste preferences—this recipe is incredibly flexible!

How do I store leftover Easy Potsticker Soup?
To maintain the integrity of your soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the potstickers separate to avoid them soaking up too much broth and losing their delightful texture. This way, you can enjoy perfectly cooked potstickers every time!

Can I freeze Easy Potsticker Soup?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the soup without the potstickers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to restore its consistency. Enjoy that cozy bowl again on a chilly day!

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Easy Potsticker Soup is thicker than you like, simply add a bit more water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Gradually stir in the liquid until you achieve the perfect balance. A warm soup should flow smoothly yet still maintain its rich flavors!

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Look for gluten-free potstickers made with rice flour or another gluten-free alternative. Additionally, ensure that your bouillon and any other ingredients used are gluten-free. With these substitutions, you can customize this delicious soup to fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!

How can I adjust the spice level in the soup?
If you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce the amount of gochujang or even leave it out entirely. If you’re a spicy food lover, consider adding more gochujang or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick. The beauty of this Easy Potsticker Soup is that you can tailor it to suit everyone’s taste buds!