Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork or chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 2-3 green onions, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 package (about 25-30 pieces) dumpling wrappers
- 8 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Optional: 1-2 carrots, sliced; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dumpling Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork or chicken, finely chopped cabbage, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Assemble the Dumplings:
- Take a dumpling wrapper and place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets. Repeat until all wrappers are filled.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the dumplings to the boiling broth, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and float to the surface. If using additional vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or spinach, add them to the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, making sure to include dumplings and vegetables in each serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can adjust the filling ingredients according to your taste preferences. Some variations include adding grated ginger, chopped shrimp, or different seasonings.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.
This Dumpling Soup is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious homemade dumplings in a warm, savory broth!