Red Curry Dumpling Soup: A Cozy, Thai-Inspired Bowl of Bold Flavor

Introduction

If you love Thai red curry and dumplings individually, you’re going to fall head-over-bowl for this Red Curry Dumpling Soup. It’s rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful—with a base of coconut milk and red curry paste—and then loaded with crisp veggies and plump dumplings that soak up all that spicy-sweet broth.

It’s weeknight-friendly, incredibly customizable, and ready in just about 30 minutes. The best part? It’s a full meal in one pot.


Why I Love This Recipe

This soup is a beautiful fusion of comfort and spice. You get:

  • The creaminess of coconut milk
  • The warmth and punch of ginger, garlic, and curry paste
  • Fresh crunch from snap peas and red bell pepper
  • Tender, chewy dumplings that turn this into a complete, hearty dish

It’s a versatile recipe that works with whatever dumplings you have on hand—store-bought or homemade. Plus, you can easily make it vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and plant-based dumplings.


Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 3 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cooked dumplings (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for garnish

Swaps & Notes

  • Dumplings: Any cooked variety will work—chicken, veggie, pork, gyoza-style, or even wontons.
  • Heat level: Adjust the red curry paste to taste; 2 tablespoons for mild, 3+ for spicy.
  • Vegetables: Swap in bok choy, mushrooms, or shredded carrots if that’s what you’ve got.
  • Protein boost: Add shredded chicken or tofu cubes for a heartier soup.

How to Make Red Curry Dumpling Soup

✅ 1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

✅ 2. Add the Curry Paste

Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, letting the flavors bloom and intensify. The mixture should be aromatic and slightly glossy.

✅ 3. Add Broth and Coconut Milk

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. This forms the creamy, flavorful base of the soup.

✅ 4. Add the Veggies

Toss in the snap peas and sliced red bell pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until veggies are crisp-tender.

✅ 5. Add Dumplings and Season

Stir in the cooked dumplings and soy sauce. Let them heat through gently, soaking up the broth’s flavor. Adjust seasoning if needed.

✅ 6. Serve and Garnish

Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime. Squeeze lime over the top just before serving for a citrusy pop.


Tips for Success

  • Use a good quality red curry paste—it makes all the difference.
  • Don’t overcook the dumplings—they’re already cooked and just need to be warmed through.
  • If prepping ahead, keep the dumplings separate and add them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Want extra richness? Add a teaspoon of peanut butter with the curry paste for a Thai peanut-style variation.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This soup is satisfying on its own, but you can round it out with:

  • A side of jasmine or sticky rice
  • Fresh spring rolls with dipping sauce
  • Or pair with another comforting bowl like this Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo

Need a refreshing contrast? Sip on some Blueberry Lemonade or keep things casual with snacks like Beer Cheese Dip.

End the meal on a sweet note with something simple like Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites.


Storage & Leftover Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove—avoid boiling to keep the dumplings from falling apart.
  • Freeze the base (without dumplings) for up to 2 months; add fresh dumplings when reheating.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re into bold, comforting, and customizable dishes, check these out:


Final Thoughts

This Red Curry Dumpling Soup is spicy, creamy, and soul-warming in every way. It’s a one-pot meal that brings together the best of comfort food and Thai-inspired flavor—perfect for chilly nights, sick days, or just because.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version! Tag @chefmaniac or leave a comment to tell us what dumplings or veggies you added to your bowl.