20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant Thai flavors yet comes together in a flash, you’ve just found your new go-to. This 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe wraps soothing warmth, creamy coconut broth, and herbaceous freshness all into one cozy bowl. With tender dumplings nestled in a fragrant mix of ginger, lemongrass, and red curry paste, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal any evening of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, vibrant ingredients make all the difference in this recipe. Each one plays a key role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture that define this Thai-inspired soup.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral cooking oil: Essential for sautéing and bringing out the sweetness of the aromatics.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle base sweetness and body to the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses pungent, savory notes that awaken the broth.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings a fresh, slightly spicy zing for warmth.
• 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and lightly smashed: Imparts a citrusy brightness typical of Thai cuisine.
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste: Delivers bold, aromatic spice and complexity.
• 400 ml (1 can) coconut milk: Creates a creamy, luscious broth that balances the heat.
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable stock: Forms the savory liquid base, enhancing overall depth.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or fish sauce: Adds umami and seasoning with a salty edge.
• 1 head bok choy, chopped (or 2 baby bok choy): Provides a fresh, crunchy green to lighten the soup.
• 12 frozen dumplings or potstickers (vegetable, chicken, or pork): The star ingredient — tender pockets of satisfying filling.
• 3 spring onions, thinly sliced: For a crisp, slightly sharp garnish.
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), to serve: Adds a fragrant herbal finish.
• Lime wedges, to serve: A zesty burst to brighten each spoonful.

How to Make 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Begin by heating your chosen oil over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is where the sweetness begins to develop. Next, add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger; cook for just another minute until the aroma makes your kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Time to introduce the Thai red curry paste and the lemongrass stalk. Stir these into the onion, garlic, and ginger mixture, letting them cook gently for a minute to coax out the deep, complex scents that make this soup shine.

Step 3: Make the Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable stock, stirring to combine all those fragrant flavors. Then, add your soy sauce or fish sauce, which will bring that essential salty umami taste. Bring everything gently to a simmer — you want it hot but not boiling furiously.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

Drop your frozen dumplings straight into the simmering broth. These will cook in the bubbling liquid, absorbing the flavorful notes as they tenderize. Follow your package’s instructions, usually around 6 to 8 minutes, for perfectly cooked dumplings bursting with juicy filling.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Just before the dumplings finish cooking, stir in the chopped bok choy. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until the greens turn a vibrant, bright green and become tender but still crisp. This adds a fresh contrast in texture and a pop of color that’s as appealing as the taste.

How to Make 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe: Serving

Once everything is cooked through, carefully fish out the lemongrass stalk—it has done its job in flavoring the broth! Ladle the soup and dumplings into bowls, ready for your favorite finishing touches.

How to Serve 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe

Garnishes

The magic is in the toppings. Sprinkle thinly sliced spring onions and fresh coriander leaves over your bowl for herbal brightness. A generous squeeze of lime juice right before eating adds an invigorating citrus note that lifts the entire dish.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad. Both options complement the depth of the broth without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors in your dumpling soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, try serving the soup in mini coconut shells or vibrant bowls to highlight its Thai roots. You can also add a drizzle of extra coconut cream or a sprinkle of toasted chili flakes to dial up the creaminess or spice according to your mood.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and prevent the dumplings from drying out.

Freezing

Freezing soup with dumplings can be tricky since dumplings tend to lose texture when frozen. If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to separate the broth from the dumplings before freezing. Reheat the broth and cook fresh dumplings when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated soup gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Add fresh greens when warming up if you want to refresh the soup’s bright color and texture. Avoid overheating to keep the dumplings tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh dumplings instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh dumplings can be used and typically cook even faster. Just add them to the simmering broth and watch them float when they’re done.

Is this soup spicy?

The heat level depends on the Thai red curry paste you choose. You can adjust the amount or select a milder paste to suit your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable stock and select vegetable-filled dumplings. Swap fish sauce for soy sauce to keep it fully plant-based.

What if I don’t have lemongrass?

While lemongrass adds signature citrus flavor, you can substitute with a bit of lime zest or extra ginger in a pinch. Fresh lemongrass is highly recommended for authentic aroma.

How do I prevent the coconut milk from curdling?

Keeping the heat gentle when simmering coconut milk and avoiding rapid boiling helps maintain a smooth broth without curdling.

Final Thoughts

This 20 Minute Thai Dumpling Soup Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals—it’s fast, comforting, and packed with incredible flavor. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or a seasoned fan, it’s an easy dish to fall in love with and impress any dinner guest. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious harmony of dumplings and Thai-inspired broth in no time!

Print