Description

Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s bursting with savory Asian-inspired flavors? Look no further than Slow Cooker Potsticker Soup! This delightful recipe combines tender potstickers, a fragrant broth infused with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, and optional veggies like mushrooms or bok choy, all slow-cooked to perfection. The slow cooker effortlessly blends the umami-rich flavors, while the potstickers and greens are added at the end to preserve their texture.

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

Frozen Potstickers (12-15, store-bought or homemade): Tender dumplings that add heartiness.
- Substitution: Fresh potstickers, wontons, or frozen dumplings (adjust cooking time slightly).
Chicken Broth (4 cups): Provides a savory, rich base.
- Substitution: Vegetable broth for vegetarian, beef broth for deeper flavor, or low-sodium options.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds salty, umami depth.
- Substitution: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free or low-sodium diets.
Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): Infuses nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Substitution: Olive oil or vegetable oil (less nutty flavor).
Grated Ginger (2 tsp): Brings zesty, spicy warmth.
- Substitution: ½ tsp ground ginger or 2 tbsp candied ginger (finely chopped).
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds savory, aromatic depth.
- Substitution: ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Green Onions (2-3, chopped): Provides fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.
- Substitution: Chives, parsley, or no garnish.
Sliced Mushrooms (½ cup, optional): Adds earthy, meaty texture.
- Substitution: Shiitake, cremini, or omit for simplicity.
Spinach or Bok Choy (½ cup, optional): Adds vibrant greens and nutrition.
- Substitution: Kale, Swiss chard, or omit.
Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp, optional): Brings bright, tangy acidity.
- Substitution: Apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or omit.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances overall flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or white pepper for variation.
Chili Oil or Red Pepper Flakes (1 tsp, optional): Adds a spicy kick.
- Substitution: Sriracha, hot sauce, or omit for milder flavor.

Why They’re Important: Potstickers provide the hearty, dumpling-like centerpiece, while the broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil create the savory, umami-rich base. Ginger and garlic add warmth, optional veggies bring texture and nutrition, and green onions elevate the dish with a fresh, colorful finish.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a small skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp sesame oil. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tsp grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. (Alternatively, skip sautéing and add raw garlic and ginger for a simpler prep.)
Transfer the garlic-ginger mixture (or raw aromatics) to the slow cooker. Add 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar (if using). Stir to combine.
- Tip: Sautéing enhances flavor but can be skipped to save time; raw aromatics will still infuse the broth during slow cooking. Scrape any skillet bits into the slow cooker for extra flavor.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Broth

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, allowing the broth to develop rich, aromatic flavors.
Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Tip: The longer cooking time on low yields a deeper flavor, but high works well for faster prep. Taste the broth before adding potstickers and adjust with extra soy sauce or salt if needed.

Step 3: Add Potstickers and Vegetables

Increase the slow cooker to high if using low. Add 12-15 frozen potstickers, stirring gently to submerge them in the broth.
Add ½ cup sliced mushrooms and/or ½ cup spinach or bok choy (if using). Cook for 15-20 minutes on high, until the potstickers are heated through and tender, and the vegetables are softened.
- Tip: Check potsticker package instructions for cooking time, as some brands may vary. Avoid overcooking to prevent dumplings from becoming mushy. Stir gently to avoid breaking the potstickers.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp chili oil or red pepper flakes (if using) for a spicy kick.
If the broth is too thin, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to form a slurry and stir in, cooking for an additional 5 minutes on high to thicken slightly.
- Tip: Add chili oil gradually to control heat level. For a tangier soup, stir in an extra ½ tsp rice vinegar at this stage.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has an even mix of broth, potstickers, and vegetables (3-4 potstickers per bowl for 4 servings).
Garnish with 2-3 chopped green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor and shine.
Serve hot, optionally with extra chili oil, soy sauce, or sesame seeds on the side for customization.
- Tip: Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the potstickers and vibrant garnishes. Serve with a spoon and chopsticks for an authentic, fun presentation.