There is something incredibly comforting and vibrant about this Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe that makes it an instant favorite. Combining tender dumplings, chewy noodles, and a broth bursting with tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, this soup perfectly balances warmth with a lively kick. It is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to slurp up on any day you need a dose of cozy yet exciting food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft this delicious Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe, you’ll use straightforward ingredients, each chosen to create layers of texture and flavor. From the earthy mushrooms to the tangy vinegar and the spicy chili sauce, every element plays a key role in making this soup truly memorable.
- Frozen or homemade dumplings: About 8–10 dumplings, your choice of pork, chicken, or veggie for personalized taste and hearty texture.
- Rice or ramen noodles (6 oz): These noodles provide the perfect tender bite that soaks up the broth beautifully.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): A flavorful base that keeps the soup light but rich in umami.
- Water (1 cup): Helps balance the broth and keep the soup from becoming too intense.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds deep saltiness and a savory foundation.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings that signature tang that makes the soup “hot and sour.”
- Chili garlic sauce (1 tablespoon): The spicy backbone that gives this soup its lively heat.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a lovely nutty aroma and subtle richness.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Optional, to thicken the broth slightly for a more velvety experience.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances the acidity and heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Ground white pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle warmth and layers of spice without overpowering.
- Sliced shiitake mushrooms (1/2 cup): Earthy and meaty, these mushrooms deepen the soup’s flavor and texture.
- Baby spinach or napa cabbage (1 cup): Adds freshness and a vibrant green color that brightens the bowl.
- Lightly beaten egg (1): Creates silky ribbons throughout the broth for added body and visual appeal.
- Sliced green onions (2): Provide a crisp and mildly sharp garnish.
- Fresh cilantro and additional chili oil (optional): For a fragrant herbal touch and extra heat if you fancy it.
How to Make Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Begin by bringing the chicken or vegetable broth and water to a boil in a medium pot. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse your entire soup. Once bubbling, stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and ground white pepper. Each ingredient balances the hot, sour, and savory notes, building that classic profile you’re craving.
Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Slightly Thicken
Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 5 minutes so they release their deep, earthy flavor. If you prefer a soup with a little more body, stir in the cornstarch slurry now and let it cook for 2 more minutes until the broth thickens slightly. This step is optional but adds a lovely velvety texture that clings beautifully to the noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Gently add your dumplings to the broth and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked. If you’re using frozen dumplings, ensure they’re heated through thoroughly. This step is where the dumplings soak up the hot and sour magic, becoming wonderfully tender and juicy.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles and Create Egg Ribbons
While the soup simmers, cook your noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. Reduce the soup heat to a gentle simmer. Slowly drizzle the lightly beaten egg into the broth while stirring continuously, forming delicate egg ribbons that swirl through the soup for extra silkiness and visual appeal.
Step 5: Add Greens and Final Touches
Finally, add the baby spinach or napa cabbage and stir until just wilted. This adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich and spicy broth. Now your Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe is ready for serving!
How to Serve Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowls generously with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for fragrance and bright herbal notes. If you love extra heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds a beautiful red hue and fiery touch to each spoonful. These garnishes elevate the presentation and flavor, making each bite exciting and fresh.
Side Dishes
This soup shines wonderfully on its own as a satisfying meal, but pairing it with crunchy Asian-style pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad can add contrast and texture. If you want a heartier feast, steamed dumplings or spring rolls on the side create perfect companions without overwhelming the soup’s delicate balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls that hold heat well and show off the vibrant ingredients. Layer noodles first, then ladle soup and dumplings over the top so that each serving looks beautiful and inviting. For an extra touch, scatter toasted sesame seeds or thin chili threads on top to impress guests with both flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the noodles can soak up broth and become mushy over time, it’s best to keep noodles separate whenever possible and add them fresh when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the broth and dumplings without the noodles for up to 2 months. Place the soup in freezer-safe containers but avoid freezing the noodles as they deteriorate in texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop before adding freshly cooked noodles.
Reheating
Reheat the soup over low to medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the broth thickened a lot, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up. Stir in fresh, cooked noodles just before serving to keep the perfect noodle texture and integrity of the Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dumplings?
Absolutely! Frozen store-bought dumplings work perfectly in this recipe and save time. Just make sure they’re cooked fully according to the instructions. Homemade dumplings add a special touch but either way tastes fantastic.
What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
If rice vinegar is unavailable, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as substitutes, though rice vinegar offers a milder, less sharp flavor that’s classic for hot and sour soup. Adjust the amount to taste if using alternatives.
How spicy is this soup?
The heat level is moderate and balanced by tang and sweetness, making it approachable even if you aren’t used to spicy foods. Feel free to increase the chili garlic sauce or add chili oil to suit your personal spice tolerance.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and vegetable-based dumplings. The mushrooms and greens add plenty of savoriness, ensuring the soup remains rich and satisfying without any animal products.
Why do you add beaten egg to the soup?
The beaten egg creates beautiful ribbons when drizzled in while stirring, adding silkiness and subtle richness. It also adds extra protein and texture, making the soup more luxurious without changing its delicate balance.
Final Thoughts
This Hot and Sour Dumpling Noodle Soup Recipe is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that invites you to savor every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or craving a bowl of comforting spice with complex layers, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and enjoy sharing the joy it brings with friends and family!
