Name: Spicy Dumpling Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 20 dumplings (pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetable; frozen or homemade); 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili oil (plus more to taste); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or ½ teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional); 1 soft-boiled egg per serving (optional); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

If you’re craving something comforting, bold, and bursting with flavor, this Spicy Dumpling Soup is the perfect bowl of warmth. With tender dumplings swimming in a rich, aromatic broth infused with chili oil, garlic, and green onions, it delivers the ultimate cozy-meets-spicy experience.

This dish is inspired by classic Sichuan flavors but made simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a spice lover or looking to try something adventurous, the balance of heat, savory depth, and softness from the dumplings makes this an irresistible choice.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the best Spicy Dumpling Soup, having the right tools can streamline your process and ensure everything turns out perfectly:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is essential for simmering your broth and cooking the dumplings evenly. A pot with a heavy bottom helps distribute heat consistently.
Fine Mesh Strainer or Slotted Spoon: Useful for removing any floating spices or skimming excess oil from the top.
Mixing Bowls: Great for organizing prepped ingredients, especially if you’re making homemade dumplings.

Soup Ladle: You’ll want a deep ladle to scoop generous portions of broth and dumplings into each bowl.
Chopping Board & Knife: Needed for prepping aromatics like garlic, ginger, and scallions.
Serving Bowls: Deep, wide bowls work best for showcasing the beautiful dumplings and rich broth.

Ingredients for the Spicy Dumpling Soup

Every element in this soup brings a punch of flavor or texture that makes the dish unforgettable. Here are the key ingredients and why they matter:

Dumplings (frozen or homemade): The heart of the soup. Choose pork, chicken, or vegetable-filled dumplings depending on your preference.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Forms the savory base and allows the spices to shine.

Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami.
Chili Oil: Brings the signature spicy kick and beautiful red hue to the soup.
Garlic and Ginger: Aromatics that build flavor from the start.
Green Onions: Provide freshness and crunch as a garnish.
Rice Vinegar: Adds brightness and helps balance the heat.
Sesame Oil: Gives the broth a nutty, toasty finish.
Crushed Red Pepper or Sichuan Peppercorns: For those who want an extra tingle.

Optional Garnishes: Cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, or a soft-boiled egg for richness.

How To Make the Spicy Dumpling Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant—about 1 minute.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

Gently add dumplings to the simmering broth. Cook according to package directions (or about 6-8 minutes for homemade), until they float and are fully heated through.

Step 4: Adjust the Heat

Taste your broth. Add more chili oil or crushed red pepper to increase the heat to your liking.

Step 5: Serve with Fresh Garnish

Ladle soup into bowls, making sure each portion gets plenty of dumplings. Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and optional garnishes.

Serving and Storing This Spicy Dumpling Soup

This soup is best served piping hot, right after the dumplings have been cooked. Use deep soup bowls to showcase the glistening chili oil and aromatic steam rising from the broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra chili oil make for an eye-catching finish.

If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove—avoid boiling, which can cause the dumplings to fall apart. For best texture, store the dumplings and broth separately if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level can be easily adjusted. Start with a small amount of chili oil and add more to taste. You can also skip the crushed red pepper for a milder version.

Can I use frozen dumplings?

Absolutely! Frozen dumplings are a great shortcut and work perfectly in this soup. No need to thaw—just add them straight to the broth.

What kind of dumplings work best?

Pork, chicken, shrimp, or veggie dumplings all work well. Choose what you love or mix and match for variety.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your dumplings are made with gluten-free wrappers.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth and meatless dumplings. The flavor is still bold and satisfying.

How do I make homemade dumplings?

Use a simple filling of ground meat or tofu with garlic, ginger, and scallions wrapped in dumpling wrappers. Steam or boil before adding to the soup.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Kick?

If this Spicy Dumpling Soup has you craving more flavor-packed bowls, try these warming favorites next:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup with a rich, cheesy base.
Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for something extra cozy.
Louisiana Seafood Gumbo with Southern soul and spicy depth.
Moroccan Sweet Potato Soup packed with warm spices and hearty veggies.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a fusion of pasta and comfort.

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Let me know in the comments how spicy you went! Did you try a swirl of sesame paste or float an egg on top?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. And if you run into any questions, drop them below — we’re all in this soup-loving community together.

Spicy Dumpling Soup

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Dumpling Soup is a fiery, comforting bowl of tender dumplings simmered in a bold, garlic-ginger chili broth. Perfect for spice lovers or chilly nights when you need something warming and deeply flavorful.

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Pour in the broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.

3. Carefully add the dumplings into the broth. Simmer according to package or homemade instructions, typically 6-8 minutes until they float and are cooked through.

4. Taste the broth and adjust the spice level by adding more chili oil or red pepper flakes as desired.

5. Serve hot. Ladle into bowls with several dumplings in each. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, or soft-boiled eggs.