There's something truly cozy about sitting down to a bowl of Miso Dumpling Soup. Ready in just 30 minutes, this nourishing, meat-free option is full of fresh vegetables and flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Using pantry-staple ingredients and some freezer favorites, like frozen dumplings, it’s an ideal dish for a quick dinner or even a casual snack while entertaining friends. With the ease of being prepped ahead of time and highly customizable, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something both delicious and convenient.

A Delicious Fusion

Inspired by various Asian cuisines, particularly Japanese and Chinese culinary styles, this soup features a flavorful miso broth that pairs beautifully with crispy-chewy dumplings. The depth of flavor and richness in the broth create a sense of warmth that makes this dish a favorite for many. The addition of soy sauce or gyoza sauce brings out the big, bold flavors, making this a truly satisfying meal. Whether you're inspired by the history of gyoza or just looking for something quick to make, this simple dish offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Personal Experience

I remember the first time I discovered this dish, drawn by the inspiration of different Asian cuisines. The ease of cooking veggie dumplings—simply sear and steam them—made it a perfect addition to the soup. In just 30 minutes, I had a meal that felt both comforting and flavorful.

Using a few prepped ingredients, I quickly put together a dish that balanced the crisp of the dumplings with the rich, savory broth. Adding a touch of soy sauce and serving with chopsticks, this dish turned out to be pure perfection. It's a dish that’s not only satisfying but also easily adjustable based on the ingredients you have on hand.

What is Miso?

Miso is a traditional Japanese condiment that adds a unique and rich flavor to many dishes. It’s made by fermenting soybeans with salt and kōji, a type of helpful fungus, which gives it a deep, savory flavor. You can often find it at the grocery store, usually as a thick paste that is ready to use. Not only does it add flavor, but it's also high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it both nutritious and delicious.

In Japanese cuisine, it serves as the base for several traditional dishes like miso soup, also known as misoshiru. Whether you're making soup or incorporating it into other dishes, miso’s versatility and savory taste make it a favorite in kitchens around the world.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Miso Ginger Gyoza Soup in advance, but be careful. If the soup sits too long, the ingredients like dumplings and sweet potato can soak up too much water and turn a bit mushy. To avoid this, I suggest holding off on adding the dumplings and sweet potato until just before you're ready to serve. This way, you keep everything fresh and delicious. The recipe makes enough to feed about 8 people, but if you're cooking for just 1-2, it’s a good route to follow by preparing the base ahead of time and adding the finishing touches when you're ready to enjoy it.

Ingredients:

• 32 frozen vegetable dumplings or gyoza (adjusted for 8 servings)
• 3 tbsp sesame oil (for sautéing)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tsp fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1 ½ cup shredded carrots (or julienned)
• 1 baby bok choy, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced button or baby bella)
• 4-5 large pieces of kale, torn into strips (or substitute with spinach)
• 1/3 cup diced green onions (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tsp chili oil (optional for heat)
• 2 tsp sriracha (optional)
• Sesame seeds and soy sauce (for additional seasoning and garnish)

Substitutions:

• Miso Paste: If unavailable, combine 2 tbsp tahini with 2 tbsp soy sauce to achieve a similar umami flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: You can create your own broth by mixing 1 ½ tsp "Better than Bouillon" vegetarian or garlic paste with 6 cups of water.
• Kale or Bok Choy: Feel free to use spinach, cabbage, or any green leafy vegetable available.

Method:

Heat the Sesame Oil

• Heat 3 tbsp sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté the Garlic and Ginger

• Add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Add Miso, Chili Oil, and Green Onions

• Stir in chili oil (optional), miso paste, and diced green onions. Cook for another minute until the miso starts to soften, but don’t let it boil to preserve its probiotics.

Add Broth and Vegetables

• Add the vegetable broth, mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, and kale. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Dumplings

• Add the frozen dumplings/gyoza and cook for 4-5 minutes until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the dumplings can become mushy.

Serve the Soup

• Remove from heat and serve hot. Top each bowl with extra green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil for added flavor.

Additional Info About Miso Ginger Gyoza Soup

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Miso Ginger Gyoza Soup.

Health Benefits:

• Miso is rich in probiotics, supporting gut health and digestion.
• Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping with digestion and immune support.
• Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, promoting a healthy immune system.
• Vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, and kale provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall health.

Notes:

• Avoid boiling miso to maintain its probiotic benefits.
• You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili oil or sriracha based on personal taste.
• If you plan on storing leftovers, consider cooking dumplings and vegetables separately to avoid sogginess when reheating.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~7g
• Fat: ~10g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Equipment:

• Large pot or saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Grater or garlic press
• Knife and cutting board

Serving Suggestions

When enjoying a warm bowl of Miso Ginger Gyoza Soup, you can easily elevate the experience by adding a variety of vegetables. For a fresh and nutritious twist, toss in some tender bok choy, which adds a delightful crunch and bright flavor. If you want to create a more earthy and hearty profile, try including shiitake mushrooms, known for their rich, umami taste. To finish, lightly sprinkle the soup with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and extra flavor that perfectly complements the soup’s savory broth. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture and balance to the dish, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Wonton vs. Dumpling vs. Potsticker vs. Gyoza?

Around the world, these pieces of dough with tasty filling go by many names. In Japan, it's known as miso gyoza soup, while in China, you may hear it called miso wonton soup. Both dishes are delicious, and no matter what you call them, these wrapped delights make for a comforting dish.

What is miso paste?

Miso is a flavorful paste made from fermented soybeans and a bit of salt, commonly used in Asian cooking to add that rich, savory umami flavor. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be found in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store, often near items like tofu. This savory paste is the key to creating the depth of flavor in many dishes, including Miso Ginger Gyoza Soup, which benefits from its smooth, slightly tangy taste.

Can I freeze this for meal prep?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this meal. The dumplings will get mushy when frozen and reheated. It's best to enjoy the soup on the same day you make it.

Can I make my own dumplings?

Yes, you can! It won’t be a 15 minute meal, but the effort is worth it. The result will probably be even more delicious than you expect!