There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm bowl of soup, especially on cooler evenings when the air carries an inviting chill. Enter this delightful Pork and Cabbage Soup—an ode to cozy weeknight dinners. Picture the sizzle of ground pork as it transforms golden brown in your skillet, releasing its savory goodness, mingling with the sweet crunch of Napa cabbage and earthy shiitake mushrooms. It’s a culinary embrace that promises not only to satiate but also to nourish your spirit.
I discovered this gem on a rainy afternoon while rummaging through my pantry, looking for a way to elevate my typical soup game. The result? A vibrant, heart-warming potsticker-inspired soup that breezes through prep in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re winding down at home or need a quick dish to wow friends, this recipe is a keeper that strikes the perfect balance between easy to make and impressively flavorful. Join me in the kitchen and let’s whip up a bowl of comfort together!
Why will you love this Potsticker Soup?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick dinner option.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of ground pork, fragrant ginger, and earthy shiitake mushrooms creates a deep, satisfying flavor that will warm your soul.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and delight your guests.
Time-Saving Delight: With just 25 minutes of cook time, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, making this a flexible recipe for any palate. For a refreshing twist, try adding a splash of soy sauce or enjoying it alongside some crispy potstickers.
Dive into this comforting bowl that brings warmth and joy to any table!
Potsticker Soup Ingredients
• Perfect for a cozy night in!
For the Broth
- 4 cups meat stock – A rich base that enhances the flavor of the soup.
For the Soup
- 1-¾ pound Napa cabbage – Sweet and tender, it adds a delightful crunch and complements the savory notes.
- 1 pound ground pork – The star ingredient, bringing hearty flavor and protein to this potsticker soup!
- 7 ounces shiitake mushrooms – Earthy and flavorful, these mushrooms elevate the overall taste.
- 1 bunch scallions – Adds a fresh, sharp note; use both the whites and greens for depth.
- 2 Tablespoons coconut aminos – A soy sauce alternative that adds a hint of sweetness.
- 2 Tablespoons fresh ginger root – Provides warmth and spice, perfect for cozy evenings.
- 2 cloves garlic – Infuses the soup with aromatic flavor, making it truly irresistible.
- 2 teaspoons sea salt – Adjust to taste; enhances the flavors throughout the soup.
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper – Offers a subtle heat, enhancing the complexity of the dish.
- 2 Tablespoons additional fat – Can be olive oil or sesame oil to impart even more flavor.
How to Make Potsticker Soup
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Cook the Pork: Heat a large skillet or broad shallow pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork along with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ground white pepper. Cook the pork, breaking it up until it’s no longer pink, then transfer it to a bowl with a slotted spoon, keeping the rendered fat in the pan.
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Sauté the Cabbage: Assess the amount of fat remaining in the pan and add additional fat to total 2 to 3 tablespoons. Keep the heat on medium and add the Napa cabbage and ½ teaspoon sea salt. Sauté for 15 minutes, stirring the cabbage every 5 minutes until tender.
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Add the Mushrooms: Toss in the sliced shiitake mushrooms along with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are slightly tender.
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Simmer Together: Pour in the meat stock, add the cooked pork, the whites of the green onions, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Stir everything together, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer slowly for 5 minutes.
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Finish Off the Soup: Turn off the heat and stir in the greens of the green onions along with the coconut aminos for a touch of sweetness and depth.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Potsticker Soup?
Creating a full meal around this delightful soup can heighten your dining experience, bringing balance and harmony to your table.
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Crispy Potstickers: These dumplings echo the flavors in the soup and offer a satisfying crunch, making them the perfect companion.
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White Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the savory broth beautifully, adding a comforting fullness to your meal.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas packs in colors and nutrients, perfectly complementing the soup’s rich flavors.
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Garlic Bread: While it might not be traditional, the crunchy, buttery bites are a delightful way to soak up the soup’s warm goodness.
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Scallion Pancakes: These savory pancakes bring a plant-based twist that echoes the scallions in the soup, adding layers of texture. They’re irresistibly good!
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Sesame Ginger Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, sesame dressing, and ginger will brighten your palate and enhance the meal’s overall appeal.
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Iced Green Tea: A chilled tea balances the meal with its refreshing notes, cutting through the soup’s richness while keeping you hydrated.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet serves as a sweet contrast to the savory soup, refreshing your palate after each comforting sip.
Gather around the table with these delightful additions, and enjoy a cozy, flavorful feast!
Expert Tips for Potsticker Soup
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Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Napa cabbage and shiitake mushrooms for the best flavor. Wilting or aging veggies can dull your potsticker soup‘s vibrant taste.
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Get Your Fat Right: Ensure you have enough fat in the pan when sautéing the cabbage. Too little can lead to burnt bits, while too much may make the soup greasy.
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Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow the cabbage to cook properly for the full 15 minutes; this will develop sweetness and a lovely texture, creating a heartier depth.
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Simmer Gently: When adding the broth, remember to simmer gently rather than boil vigorously—this preserves the textures of the vegetables and pork.
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Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt, ginger, and coconut aminos to suit your preference and enhance the flavor profile of your potsticker soup.
How to Store and Freeze Potsticker Soup
Fridge: Keep leftover potsticker soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Label each container for easy identification later.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.
Avoiding Spoilage: Always store fresh ingredients separately if planning to keep leftovers to maintain the quality and flavor of your soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Potsticker Soup preparations are a game changer for busy weeknights! You can chop the Napa cabbage, slice the shiitake mushrooms, and prepare the aromatics (ginger, garlic, and scallions) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. For even more convenience, you can brown the ground pork and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, combine the prepped ingredients with the stock and simmer, following the finishing steps as outlined in the recipe. This way, your potsticker soup will be just as delicious and comforting without any extra hassle!
Potsticker Soup Variations
Feel free to experiment with this beloved recipe and make it truly yours!
- Dairy-Free: Swap any added fat with coconut oil or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
- Vegan: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth to create a hearty, animal-free delight. It’s just as comforting!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking for a fiery twist that packs a punch.
- Texture Boost: Add a handful of bean sprouts or tofu cubes to enhance the soup’s texture and add more protein. These will give every spoonful some delightful crunch!
- Herb Infusion: Throw in a tablespoon of fresh cilantro or Thai basil at the end for a fragrant, herbaceous flavor that lightens every bowl.
- Noodle Delight: Include cooked rice noodles or wonton wrappers for a more filling meal. Simply add them before serving for a delightful chewy element!
- Umami Punch: A splash of fish sauce can enhance the depth of flavors in the soup, creating an irresistibly savory taste.
- Cabbage Variety: Substitute the Napa cabbage with bok choy, kale, or even spinach for a different leafy green experience that changes the soup’s character beautifully.
Let your creativity shine through each bowl!
Potsticker Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Napa cabbage for my soup?
Absolutely! Look for heads of Napa cabbage that are firm, with crisp leaves, and free from dark spots or wilting. The fresher the cabbage, the sweeter and crunchier it’ll be in your potsticker soup.
How long can I store leftover Potsticker Soup in the fridge?
Very! You can keep leftover potsticker soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation that can affect consistency.
Can I freeze Potsticker Soup?
Absolutely! Portion your cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some headspace for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label each container for easy access later!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Potsticker Soup?
To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge for the best texture. When ready, gently warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s looking a bit thick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; this ensures a delightful eating experience.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Potsticker Soup?
Very! If you’re looking to accommodate dietary preferences or allergies, feel free to swap the ground pork with ground turkey or beef. You can also mix in your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
What if my soup tastes too salty?
Don’t worry! If your potsticker soup ends up tasting too salty, try adding a bit of water or additional broth to balance the flavors. You can also add some diced potatoes while simmering; they absorb excess salt and restore harmony in the soup.
Hearty Potsticker Soup for Cozy Nights at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet or broad shallow pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork along with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ground white pepper. Cook the pork, breaking it up until it's no longer pink, then transfer it to a bowl with a slotted spoon, keeping the rendered fat in the pan.
- Assess the amount of fat remaining in the pan and add additional fat to total 2 to 3 tablespoons. Keep the heat on medium and add the Napa cabbage and ½ teaspoon sea salt. Sauté for 15 minutes, stirring the cabbage every 5 minutes until tender.
- Toss in the sliced shiitake mushrooms along with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are slightly tender.
- Pour in the meat stock, add the cooked pork, the whites of the green onions, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Stir everything together, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer slowly for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the greens of the green onions along with the coconut aminos for a touch of sweetness and depth.