Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup Recipe
If there’s any recipe that checks every box for comfort, flavor, and pure fun, it’s Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup. Imagine plump, juicy dumplings bobbing in a broth that’s spicy, savory, and wildly aromatic, all made in just 20 minutes with your trusty Instant Pot. This is that happy fusion of convenience and homemade flavor we’re all chasing on a busy weeknight: bold chili heat, crunchy greens, silky mushrooms, and the unbeatable satisfaction of those delicious dumplings. Whether you need a quick soul-soother or want to impress your friends with an Asian-inspired masterpiece, this soup always hits the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup counts, bringing distinctive flavors, texture, and color to the bowl. From punchy aromatics to the hearty dumplings, these are everyday staples transformed into a show-stopping meal. Here’s why you’ll love each element:
- Sesame oil: Nutty and fragrant, it builds the flavor base right from the start—don’t skip it!
- Vegetable oil: A neutral partner that helps balance sesame oil and ensures even sautéing.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and melds into the broth.
- Garlic cloves: Brings signature punch and aroma that infuses the whole soup.
- Fresh ginger: Lends warmth and a peppery, almost citrusy zing that brightens everything.
- Soy sauce: Delivers classic umami and salty depth to round out the broth.
- Rice vinegar: Offers just the right amount of acidity to balance the richness of the dumplings.
- Chili garlic sauce: The star for spice—add a little (or a lot!) depending on your heat tolerance.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Serves as the flavorful foundation; low-sodium lets you control the seasoning.
- Bok choy or napa cabbage: A splash of green and crunch, boosting nutrition and color.
- Shiitake or button mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms offer savoriness with a chewy texture—shiitake for more authentic flavor!
- Frozen or fresh dumplings: Every soup’s hero; use your favorite variety for a custom bowl.
- Green onions: A finishing touch for freshness and a little bite.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Brings herbal brightness for extra flair—skip it if you’re not a fan.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste, tying all those vibrant flavors together.
How to Make Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and pour in both the sesame and vegetable oils. Once they’re shimmering, toss in your diced onion. Cook for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and releases its sweetness. Next, add the garlic and ginger, giving everything another quick stir. You’ll immediately smell those cozy, spicy aromas—the sure sign you’re heading in the right direction!
Step 2: Build the Broth
Now, in goes the trio of flavor magic: soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Stir well to mix those into the sautéed aromatics, letting them bubble gently for just half a minute. Pour in your broth, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—these little bits add even more flavor and keep your Instant Pot extra happy.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Dumplings
Toss in the chopped bok choy and sliced mushrooms; their colors will pop against the spicy broth-in-the-making. Cancel the sauté mode, then carefully layer in the dumplings—fresh or frozen, either works beautifully here. Close and seal the Instant Pot lid so the real magic can begin.
Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on high for five minutes. When the timer beeps, give it a five-minute natural release; this lets the broth settle, so the dumplings stay tender. Finish with a quick release of any remaining pressure, then crack open that lid and let the steam reveal your savory masterpiece.
Step 5: Taste, Season, and Serve
Give everything a gentle stir and have a taste—you can adjust seasoning now with extra salt, pepper, or more chili garlic sauce if you’re craving more heat. Ladle that steaming Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup into bowls and garnish with green onions and cilantro for the finishing flourish.
How to Serve Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup
Garnishes
The right toppings add personality and extra layers of flavor to every bowl of Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup. Green onions bring color and sharpness, while fresh cilantro offers a pop of garden-brightness. For an extra wow factor, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a sprinkle of crispy chili flakes can make all the difference.
Side Dishes
Although Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup is a hearty showstopper on its own, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice, crispy spring rolls, or a quick cucumber salad. The fresh and crunchy sides create a light contrast, turning your meal into a full-on feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve the soup in mini bowls as a starter, or create a “make your own” soup bar: let guests add more garnishes, chili sauce, or even extra veggies to their liking. If you’re feeling playful, use colorful dumplings or sliced chili peppers to brighten up your soup—it’s as fun as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup to an airtight container and stash it in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen after a day or two, making leftovers something to look forward to. Enjoy within three days for best taste and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, skip the garnishes and ladle cooled soup (with dumplings) into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. When you thaw, remember vegetables and dumplings may soften a bit, but the bold broth flavor holds up incredibly well.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat until hot throughout. In the microwave, cover loosely and heat in one-minute bursts, stirring often. If you’ve frozen your soup, defrost overnight in the fridge before heating gently. For the freshest finish, add garnishes after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dumplings instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade dumplings work perfectly in Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup. Just be sure they’re sealed tightly so they don’t fall apart during the pressure cooking process.
What if I want it even spicier?
Go right ahead—just add more chili garlic sauce or toss in some sliced fresh chilies when sautéing. Adjust the heat to your own taste adventure!
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use veggie dumplings. Double-check ingredient labels to make sure your dumplings and sauces meet your dietary needs.
How do I prevent the dumplings from sticking together?
Layer dumplings in a single layer if possible, or gently separate them so they aren’t packed too tightly. This helps them cook evenly without sticking or getting mushy.
Can I double the recipe in my Instant Pot?
If your pot is big enough, you can absolutely double Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup! Just be sure not to fill past the max line; cooking time remains the same.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup and seeing everyone’s faces light up at the table. It’s quick, deeply satisfying, and packed with flavor that truly warms you up from the inside out. If you’ve never tried making dumpling soup before, now’s the time—your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!
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Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of flavorful and comforting Instant Pot Spicy Dumpling Soup. This Asian-inspired soup is loaded with dumplings, bok choy, mushrooms, and a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
Main Soup:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped bok choy or napa cabbage
- 1 cup sliced shiitake or button mushrooms
- 12–16 frozen or fresh dumplings (pork, chicken, or vegetable)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add sesame oil and vegetable oil. Sauté diced onion until softened. Add garlic and ginger, cook until fragrant.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Pour in broth, deglaze the pot, and add bok choy and mushrooms.
- Cook Dumplings: Cancel sauté mode, add dumplings, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release. Adjust seasoning and serve hot, garnished with green onions and cilantro.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and veggie dumplings.
- Add more chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- If using homemade dumplings, ensure they are sealed tightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
