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HOT AND SOUR DUMPLING SOUP

If you’re craving something cozy, bold, and packed with flavor, this Hot and Sour Dumpling Soup is the perfect pick. With juicy dumplings swimming in a spicy, tangy broth, it’s an easy one-bowl meal that delivers all the comfort of takeout—but made right at home in under 20 minutes. The soup is built on hot chili oil, fragrant garlic, and a splash of vinegar for that addictive hot-and-sour flavor we all love. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug—especially on chilly days or when you need something quick and satisfying.

Whether you’re using store-bought dumplings or homemade ones from your freezer stash, this recipe comes together fast and tastes like something from your favorite noodle shop. Bonus: you don’t need any fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a little heat.

INGREDIENTS FOR HOT AND SOUR DUMPLING SOUP

For the soup:

• 10–15 homemade or frozen dumplings

• 3 tbsp oil

• 1 tbsp chili powder or chili flakes (adjust to your heat level)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 ½ tbsp vinegar (black vinegar or white vinegar work)

• 2 tsp oyster sauce

• 1 pinch garlic salt or regular salt, to taste

• ¾ to 1 cup reserved dumpling cooking water

Optional garnish:

• Chopped cilantro

• Extra green onions

• Chili crisp

COOKING STEPS FOR HOT AND SOUR DUMPLING SOUP

1. Cook the Dumplings:

Bring a pot of water to boil and gently add in the dumplings. Stir carefully to prevent sticking. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and add ½ cup of cold water. Repeat this step two more times until the dumplings are fully cooked and floating. Reserve ¾ to 1 cup of the cooking water before draining.

2.Prepare the Soup Base:

In your serving bowl, add chili powder (or flakes), minced garlic, chopped green onion, and toasted sesame seeds.

3.Make the Hot Oil:

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a small pan until shimmering. Carefully pour the hot oil into the soup bowl over the spices. You’ll hear a sizzle—this step unlocks all the flavors!

4.Build the Soup:

Add the soy sauce, vinegar, oyster sauce, salt, reserved dumpling water, and cooked dumplings into the bowl. Mix everything gently until the dumplings are well coated in the broth.

5.Garnish and Serve:

Top with cilantro or more green onions if you’d like. Serve hot and enjoy right away!

TIPS & SUBSTITUTIONS

• Dumplings: This works with any type—pork, veggie, shrimp, chicken—whatever you have on hand.

• Vinegar: Chinese black vinegar adds the most authentic flavor, but white or rice vinegar work in a pinch.

• Heat level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your liking. You can also use chili oil or a scoop of chili crisp for extra flavor.

• No oyster sauce? Sub with hoisin or an extra splash of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.

MEAL PREP & LEFTOVERS

This Hot and Sour Dumpling Soup is best enjoyed fresh. Since dumplings tend to soften and become a bit soggy in the broth, we recommend cooking them right before you’re ready to eat. However, you can absolutely prepare the soup base (minus the dumplings and water) in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for a cozy bowl, just boil your dumplings, add the reserved dumpling water, and stir in your prepped seasoning mix as usual—it’s quick, flavorful, and so satisfying!

QUICK HOT AND SOUR DUMPLING SOUP FAQ

Can I use pan-fried dumplings?

You can, but boiled dumplings are ideal here—they release starch into the water, which adds depth to the broth.

Can I make this less spicy?

Of course! Just reduce the amount of chili powder or flakes, and feel free to skip the chili oil. You’ll still get a rich, savory broth with a gentle kick.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Definitely! Use plant-based dumplings and swap oyster sauce for a vegan alternative like mushroom stir-fry sauce. The result is just as flavorful and satisfying.