Ingredients

For the Dumplings

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground pork or ground chicken
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, for homemade wrappers
    OR 25–30 store-bought dumpling wrappers
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro, optional

For the Soup

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3–4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms, optional
  • 1 cup bok choy or spinach, optional
  • ½ teaspoon white or black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil, optional

For Garnishing

  • Fresh green onions
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sesame seeds
  • Chili oil or chili crisp
  • A few drops of sesame oil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumpling Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, and cornstarch.

Mix thoroughly until the filling becomes slightly sticky and well combined.

2. Fill the Dumplings

Place one dumpling wrapper on a clean surface.

Add approximately 1 tablespoon of filling to the center. Lightly wet the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it over the filling, and press the edges firmly together.

Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.

Tip: Keep the finished dumplings covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel so the wrappers don’t dry out.

3. Make the Broth

Heat a large pot over medium heat.

Add the sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.

Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and pepper. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional soy sauce.

4. Cook the Dumplings

Carefully place the dumplings into the simmering broth.

Avoid overcrowding the pot. If necessary, cook them in batches.

Simmer for approximately 6–10 minutes, depending on the size of the dumplings, until the wrappers are tender and the filling is completely cooked.

For meat dumplings, make sure the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Add the Vegetables

During the final 2–3 minutes, add sliced mushrooms, bok choy, spinach, or other vegetables if desired.

Let them cook until tender but still slightly crisp.

6. Finish the Soup

Turn off the heat and stir in the sliced green onions and cilantro.

Add a few drops of sesame oil for extra aroma.

For a spicy version, drizzle chili oil or chili crisp over the top.