Mediterranean Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms and Bok Choy
Prep & Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 3–4
This Mediterranean Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms and Bok Choy is a comforting, savory bowl that combines tender potstickers with a flavorful broth, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of sesame. Quick and easy to make, this soup balances umami-rich mushrooms, crisp bok choy, and garlic-ginger aromatics, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or light lunch. Optional toppings like chili crisp or toasted sesame seeds add extra depth and flavor.
Ingredients
Broth
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2–3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
Black pepper, to taste
Potstickers
12–16 frozen potstickers (pork, vegetable, or preferred filling)
Vegetables & Aromatics
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, cremini, or a mix)
2 cups bok choy, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 small onion or 2–3 scallions, sliced
Seasonings & Optional Additions
1–2 tsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Optional: chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, rice vinegar, chili oil for serving
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and onion/scallions and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook Potstickers:
Add frozen potstickers directly to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes, until they float and are heated through.
Add Bok Choy:
Add chopped bok choy to the pot and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
Adjust Flavor:
Taste the soup and adjust with more soy sauce, sesame oil, or black pepper as needed. Optionally, add a splash of rice vinegar for brightness or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.
Serve:
Ladle soup into bowls, topping with optional toasted sesame seeds, sliced scallions, or chili crisp. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
Broth Options:
Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for richer flavor, or a low-sodium store-bought broth for convenience. Add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for extra umami.
Potsticker Choices:
Frozen potstickers work perfectly, but you can also use fresh, homemade, or even dumplings with different fillings like chicken, shrimp, or vegetable.
Mushrooms:
Shitake mushrooms add a meaty, earthy flavor, while cremini or button mushrooms are milder. Mix different types for depth.
Bok Choy Substitutes:
Napa cabbage, spinach, or kale can be used if bok choy is unavailable. Add leafy greens towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Aromatics:
Garlic and ginger are key for flavor. You can also add a touch of lemongrass or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra warmth.
Seasoning Adjustments:
Adjust soy sauce, sesame oil, or black pepper to taste. A small splash of rice vinegar brightens the soup.
Optional Toppings:
Enhance the soup with toasted sesame seeds, sliced scallions, chili crisp, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also add freshness.
Cooking Method:
Simmer the soup gently to avoid breaking the potstickers. Avoid overcooking to keep the filling intact.
Make Ahead:
The broth can be prepared in advance. Add the potstickers and bok choy just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with crusty bread, steamed rice, or noodles to make it a more filling meal. The soup is also great as a light starter.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen or pre-cooked vegetables?
Yes. If using frozen mushrooms or bok choy, thaw and drain excess water before adding to the soup to prevent it from becoming watery.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely. Use vegetable broth and vegetable-filled potstickers. Omit any animal-based ingredients like chicken broth or meat-filled dumplings.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and sautéed vegetables in advance. Add potstickers and bok choy just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes. Add chili crisp, red pepper flakes, or chili oil to taste.
Q: Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, but add potstickers and bok choy towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming overcooked or mushy.
Nutrition
(per serving, approximate)
Calories: 250
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Calcium: 6% DV
Iron: 10% DV
(Values vary depending on potsticker filling, broth, and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms and Bok Choy is a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal. The combination of tender potstickers, earthy mushrooms, crisp bok choy, and a savory broth creates a satisfying soup that’s both light and filling. Easy to customize with different vegetables or proteins, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a warming starter. Serve hot with optional garnishes for an added touch of flavor and texture.