Comforting Dumpling Soup

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg

Ingredients

• 6 cups (1.5 liters) good quality chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (optional, for a touch of tang)
• 24-30 frozen potstickers or wontons (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated)
• 2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes, for garnish (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, sliced ginger, minced garlic, white pepper, and rice vinegar (if using).
2. Bring the broth mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the aromatics to infuse the broth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; you might want a pinch more salt or soy sauce.
3. Carefully add the frozen potstickers or wontons to the simmering broth. Ensure not to overcrowd the pot; if necessary, cook them in batches.
4. Cook the dumplings according to package directions, usually 5-8 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. They should be tender and slightly plump.
5. Once the dumplings are nearly cooked, add the chopped fresh spinach and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Stir gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the mushrooms are tender-crisp.
6. Remove the pot from the heat.
7. Ladle the hot dumpling soup into individual serving bowls, ensuring each bowl gets a good mix of dumplings, spinach, and mushrooms.
8. Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions, fresh chopped cilantro (if using), chili flakes for a touch of heat, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting bowl of deliciousness.