Hearty Shiitake & Bok Choy Soup Recipe

Cozy Shiitake & Bok Choy Soup Recipe for Chilly Evenings

Cold winter nights call for something warm and comforting, and this shiitake and bok choy soup delivers pure culinary magic.

Earthy shiitake mushrooms dance alongside tender bok choy in a delicate broth that whispers of Asian-inspired flavors.

Each spoonful brings a rich, umami depth that warms you from the inside out.

Fragrant ginger and garlic provide a subtle kick of warmth and complexity to the soup.

The ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a light yet satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, this soup transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

Let’s find out this recipe and let its soul-soothing goodness chase away the winter chill.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients You Need for Shiitake Bok Choy Soup

For Soup Base:
  • Vegetable Broth: Provides a light, flavorful foundation that carries the essence of the soup, choose low-sodium for better control of salt levels.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami richness, opt for naturally brewed varieties for more complex flavor.
  • Toasted Sesame Oil: Delivers a nutty, aromatic undertone that elevates the entire soup's profile, use sparingly for maximum impact.
For Protein and Vegetables:
  • Frozen Potstickers: Convenient protein-packed dumplings that transform the soup into a hearty meal, select vegetable or meat-filled options based on preference.
  • Shiitake Mushrooms: Brings earthy, meaty texture with robust flavor, choose fresh or dried mushrooms for intense taste.
  • Baby Bok Choy: Adds crisp, green freshness and nutritional value, look for bright green leaves without yellowing or wilting.
For Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Scallions: Provides sharp, oniony brightness and visual appeal, slice white and green parts separately for layered garnish.
  • Garlic: Contributes robust, pungent base notes, choose firm cloves without sprouting.
  • Fresh Ginger: Offers warm, spicy undertone with zesty kick, select smooth, firm root without wrinkles.
  • Black Pepper: Introduces subtle heat and complexity, freshly ground provides most vibrant flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Creates foundation for sautéing and adds subtle fruity notes, use extra virgin for best quality.
Optional Toppings:
  • Chili Crisp: Adds spicy, crunchy excitement.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds

Soup-Making Tools for Shiitake Broth

  • Large Stockpot: Essential for creating and simmering the soup base.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for preparing scallions and any additional chopping.
  • Sharp Knife: Helps with precise cutting of ingredients like scallions.
  • Measuring Tablespoon: Useful for accurately measuring oil and sesame oil.

Shiitake Soup Instructions with Bok Choy

  • Mushroom Preparation

Warm up a large stockpot and create a sizzling environment for your shiitake mushrooms. Coax them into a rich, golden-brown color with gentle stirring, releasing their deep earthy flavors.

  • Aromatic Foundation

Introduce fragrant garlic and ginger to the pan, letting their vibrant essence mingle with the mushrooms. The kitchen will come alive with an enticing, mouthwatering aroma.

  • Broth Magic

Pour in vegetable broth and a splash of soy sauce, creating a harmonious liquid base that will transform simple ingredients into a comforting soup experience.

  • Potsticker Party

Drop frozen potstickers into the bubbling liquid along with tender bok choy and a sprinkle of scallions. Let everything dance together, warming through and sharing their unique flavors.

  • Final Touch

Drizzle in sesame oil and a whisper of black pepper. This is where the soup goes from good to extraordinary, adding depth and character to each spoonful.

  • Serving Celebration

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls, crowning it with remaining scallions. Your personal culinary masterpiece is ready to comfort and delight.

Extra Tips for Savory Mushroom Soup

  • Swap shiitake mushrooms with cremini or oyster mushrooms for a different earthy taste profile.
  • Add tofu cubes or shredded chicken to make the soup more filling and nutritious.
  • Include a dash of chili oil or sriracha sauce for those who enjoy extra heat and a zingy kick.
  • Replace vegetable broth with chicken or miso broth to create deeper, more complex flavor dimensions.

Serving Up Shiitake and Bok Choy Soup

  • Comfort Bowl Companion: Serve this warm soup alongside steamed white rice for a hearty and filling meal that soaks up the delicious broth.
  • Protein Power-Up: Add grilled tofu or shredded rotisserie chicken to transform the soup into a more substantial protein-packed dinner option.
  • Spice Lovers' Delight: Drizzle sriracha sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick of heat that complements the earthy mushroom and ginger flavors.
  • Texture Twist: Garnish with crispy wonton strips or toasted sesame seeds to introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft potstickers and tender bok choy.

Store and Reheat Your Soup the Right Way

  • Smart Storage Solutions: Transfer leftover soup to airtight containers, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Separate liquid from solid ingredients helps maintain optimal texture.
  • Quick Freezing Strategy: Carefully pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving slight space for expansion. These soups stay delicious for up to 2 months when sealed properly.
  • Reheating Wisdom: Gently warm soup on stovetop, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add small splash of vegetable broth if mixture seems too thick during reheating process.
  • Ingredient Separation Technique: Store potstickers and fresh bok choy separately from broth to prevent soggy texture. When ready to enjoy, combine components just before serving for maximum flavor and crispness.
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Hearty Shiitake & Bok Choy Soup Recipe

Hearty Shiitake & Bok Choy Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Comforting shiitake & bok choy soup brings warmth from Chinese culinary traditions. Delicate mushrooms and tender greens create a nourishing bowl where you can savor each spoonful of pure, clean flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups (1.4 L) vegetable broth
  • 16 to 20 oz (454 to 567 g) frozen potstickers
  • 8 oz (227 g) shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 3 baby bok choy, ends trimmed off and leaves separated
  • 2 tbsps (30 mL) olive oil, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
  • 2 tbsps (30 mL) grated or minced fresh ginger
  • 5 scallions, thinly sliced and divided
  • 2 tbsps (30 mL) soy sauce
  • 2 tsps (10 mL) toasted sesame oil
  • Freshly-ground black pepper
  • Optional toppings: chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, furikake seasoning, fried garlic

Instructions

  1. Sautéing Mushrooms: Heat a large stockpot over medium-high flame and coat bottom with cooking oil. Add shiitake mushrooms, allowing them to caramelize and brown, stirring intermittently to prevent scorching.
  2. Aromatic Foundation: Introduce minced garlic and grated ginger to the mushrooms, stirring continuously until fragrant and releasing their vibrant essence.
  3. Liquid Preparation: Pour vegetable broth and soy sauce into the pot, whisking thoroughly to create a unified, flavorful base for the soup.
  4. Soup Assembly: Bring liquid to a rolling boil, then gently add frozen potstickers, half the scallions, and bok choy, ensuring even distribution and immersion in the broth.
  5. Simmering Stage: Reduce heat to medium and let the soup simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing potstickers to heat completely and bok choy to become tender while maintaining a slight crisp texture.
  6. Finishing Touches: Drizzle sesame oil and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the soup, adjusting seasonings to personal preference. Garnish with remaining scallions and optional complementary toppings before serving in warm bowls.

Notes

  • Mushroom Caramelization Tip: Shiitake mushrooms develop deeper flavor when allowed to brown without constant stirring, creating a rich umami base for the soup.
  • Aromatics Technique: Ginger and garlic should be stirred quickly to prevent burning while releasing their maximum fragrant essence into the oil.
  • Liquid Balance: Vegetable broth and soy sauce create a delicate flavor foundation, so whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasoning.
  • Vegetable Doneness Trick: Bok choy requires minimal cooking to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant green color, so watch carefully during the 3-4 minute simmer to prevent overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sophie Reynolds

Sophie Reynolds

Co-Founder, Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Home Cooking Innovation & Comfort Recipes
  • Flavor Development & Ingredient Pairing
  • Seasonal Produce Integration
  • Recipe Testing & Instructional Clarity
  • Culinary Education & Community Workshops

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Boulder, CO

  • Degree: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern culinary techniques, emphasizing sustainable cooking practices, kitchen professionalism, and real-world restaurant experience through externships.

Oregon State University

  • Degree: B.S. in Nutrition and Food Management
  • Focus: In-depth study of human nutrition, food safety, meal planning, and food-service operations, with a strong foundation in public health, dietetics, and community-based nutrition programs.

Sophie Reynolds is the recipe developer and culinary voice behind many of the approachable, flavor-focused creations at The Dream Café. 

Sophie’s style leans into comfort food made simple: wholesome, satisfying meals anyone can make with confidence. Her passion lies in helping home cooks feel at ease in the kitchen while finding joy in the everyday act of cooking.

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