Description

Craving a warm, flavorful soup that’s both comforting and packed with Asian-inspired flavors, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a romantic Valentine’s Day meal? Slow Cooker Potsticker Soup is your answer! Adapted from the original stovetop recipe, this slow cooker version combines frozen potstickers, a savory broth infused with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, and optional veggies like mushrooms or spinach, all garnished with green onions.

Ingredients

Frozen Potstickers (12–15, store-bought or homemade):
- Why it’s important: Provides a hearty, dumpling-like texture and flavor, acting as the star of the soup.
- Substitutions: Fresh potstickers (reduce cooking time by 1 hour on low), or wontons or gyoza (adjust cooking time slightly).
Chicken Broth (4 cups):
- Why it’s important: Forms the savory base of the soup, enhancing the umami flavors.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth for vegetarian, beef broth for richer flavor, or low-sodium broth.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds salty, umami depth to the broth.
- Substitutions: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free, or low-sodium soy sauce.
Sesame Oil (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the broth with nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: Olive oil (less nutty flavor) or omit.
Grated Ginger (2 tsp, fresh):
- Why it’s important: Adds zesty, spicy warmth for authentic Asian flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp ground ginger or 1 tsp ginger paste.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Provides aromatic, savory depth to the broth.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
Green Onions (2–3, chopped, for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds fresh, oniony crunch and vibrant color.
- Substitutions: Chives, cilantro, or omit.
Sliced Mushrooms (½ cup, optional, preferably shiitake or cremini):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy flavor and texture to the soup.
- Substitutions: Button mushrooms, zucchini, or omit.
Spinach or Bok Choy (½ cup, optional):
- Why it’s important: Provides vibrant color and nutrition with a tender texture.
- Substitutions: Kale, watercress, or omit.
Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Adds a bright, tangy note to balance the richness.
- Substitutions: Apple cider vinegar, lime juice, or omit.
Salt (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the broth and ingredients.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
Black Pepper (to taste, about ¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth to the broth.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
Chili Oil or Red Pepper Flakes (1 tsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Adds a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
- Substitutions: Sriracha, hot sauce, or omit for milder flavor.

Tip: Use high-quality broth and fresh ginger for the best flavor, and choose potstickers with your preferred filling (pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetable) to suit your taste.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base

In a small skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tbsp sesame oil over medium heat.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tsp grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
Transfer the garlic-ginger mixture to the slow cooker.
Add 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Tip: If you prefer a quicker prep, skip sautéing and add raw garlic and ginger directly to the slow cooker, but sautéing enhances flavor.

Step 2: Add Potstickers and Vegetables

Place 12–15 frozen potstickers in the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged in the broth.
If using, add ½ cup sliced mushrooms at this stage for deeper flavor development.
Tip: Arrange potstickers evenly to ensure they cook uniformly, and avoid overcrowding to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the potstickers are heated through and tender.
If using ½ cup spinach or bok choy, add it in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking to prevent over-wilting.
Check doneness early to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary and potstickers can become too soft.
Tip: Stir gently halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking, but avoid breaking the potstickers.

Step 4: Season and Finish

Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp chili oil or red pepper flakes (if using) for a spicy kick.
If the broth is too thin, simmer uncovered on high for 10 minutes to reduce slightly, or leave as is for a lighter soup.
Tip: Add chili oil gradually to control the heat level, tasting as you go.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has an even mix of broth, 3–4 potstickers, and any vegetables.
Garnish with 2–3 chopped green onions and an optional drizzle of sesame oil for extra aroma.
Serve hot as a main dish or starter, paired with a side of steamed rice, edamame, or a cucumber salad.
Tip: Serve with small spoons and chopsticks for an authentic experience, and provide extra chili oil or soy sauce on the side for dipping.