Name: Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 8-10 Frozen Soup Dumplings (depending on the size of the pan); 1 tbsp neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil); 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste; 1 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock; ⅓ cup coconut milk; 1 tsp fish sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 2 kaffir lime leaves; Thai basil leaves (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 90 reviews

If you love dishes that deliver bold flavors and comforting warmth in every bite, then you are going to adore this Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe. It combines the delicate, juicy texture of soup dumplings with a creamy, fragrant Thai red curry sauce that’s bursting with vibrant herbs and spices. This recipe brings a fantastic twist to traditional dumplings by simmering them in a luscious sauce inspired by classic Thai takeout, offering a wonderful fusion of taste and texture that feels both exotic and soul-satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, it’s simplicity and flavor melded in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a single black pot on a black stove with a small round red paste dollop sitting in cooking oil at the center of the pot. Behind the pot, on a white marbled surface, there are three lime pieces: one whole cut half showing green flesh and two small lime wedges. Next to the lime, there is a bunch of fresh green leafy herbs. The colors are rich with the oil shining slightly in the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for this delicious dish. Each element plays a vital role in building the recipe’s layered flavors, from the spicy kick of the red curry paste to the creamy richness of coconut milk and the bright aroma of kaffir lime leaves. Don’t worry, these pantry staples are straightforward and easy to find, making this dish as approachable as it is flavorful.

Frozen Soup Dumplings: These are the star of the dish, providing juicy, tender bites inside a delicate wrapper.
Neutral Oil: A splash of oil helps to gently toast the curry paste and unlock its flavor.
Thai Red Curry Paste: This paste delivers a vibrant, spicy foundation essential for the authentic taste.
Chicken or Vegetable Stock: Adds depth and moisture for simmering the dumplings and blending the sauce.
Coconut Milk: Brings a luscious creaminess and balances the heat beautifully.
Fish Sauce: Adds a punch of umami that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Sugar: A hint of sweetness to balance the savory and spicy notes.
Kaffir Lime Leaves: Impart a fresh, citrusy aroma that elevates the whole sauce.
Thai Basil Leaves: Used at the end to add a peppery, herbal freshness to each bite.

How to Make Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Curry Paste

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the Thai red curry paste and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes. This step is key to awakening those complex flavors inside the paste, turning it wonderfully aromatic and rich.

Step 2: Add the Stock

Pour in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable stock, stirring well as you cook. Keep cooking until the curry paste dissolves completely into the stock, creating the base for your sauce. This melding makes the sauce flavorful and smooth.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Next, stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Combine everything until well mixed, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This sauce is where the magic happens, as the creaminess contrasts with the spicy and savory components superbly.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup Dumplings

Carefully add 8 to 10 frozen soup dumplings directly into the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 12 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated and tender. The sauce infuses the dumplings, making them even more delicious than when steamed alone.

Step 5: Finish with Thai Basil

Remove the lid and turn off the heat, then toss in a handful of fresh Thai basil leaves. These leaves add just the right touch of herbal brightness to uplift the dish before serving.

How to Serve Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe

A close-up view of a black pot filled with several round dumplings that have a ridged pattern on top, immersed in a thick orange-yellow sauce with a smooth and slightly oily texture. The sauce has small red specks and green leafy herbs scattered throughout. A white spoon is holding one dumpling above the pot, showing its glossy surface and the sauce coating it, along with some green leaves surrounding the dumpling. The pot is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate this dish to the next level. Consider sprinkling finely chopped cilantro or a few sliced red chilies for extra color and a little heat. A wedge of lime on the side is also fantastic for a zesty finish that contrasts with the creamy curry sauce.

Side Dishes

Light and fresh sides pair wonderfully with this rich main. Steamed jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame seeds are perfect companions. They provide a cooling effect and balance the bold flavors of the Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the dumplings and curry sauce in individual small bowls or deep plates to showcase the beautiful red sauce around the dumplings. You can also arrange them in a large serving platter and garnish generously with herbs and chilies, inviting guests to dig in family-style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup dumplings in Thai red curry sauce in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making leftovers quite tasty. Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely first. Transfer everything into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of the dumpling wrapper may change slightly upon thawing, but the sauce will retain its wonderful flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to avoid breaking the dumplings apart. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or stock can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh soup dumplings instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh soup dumplings can be used and may reduce the cooking time slightly. Just keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

What if I cannot find kaffir lime leaves?

If kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, you can omit them or substitute with a small amount of lime zest and a bay leaf for a different but still pleasant citrus aroma.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level depends on the curry paste used. Thai red curry paste typically has moderate spice, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or balance it by adding more coconut milk.

Can this dish be made vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Use vegetable stock and swap fish sauce for a vegan-friendly alternative like soy sauce or tamari. The rest of the recipe remains the same, delivering plenty of flavor.

How do I know when the soup dumplings are cooked?

Frozen soup dumplings usually take around 12 minutes to cook. They should be tender and hot all the way through. If unsure, cut one open to check that the filling is steaming and cooked inside.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Soup Dumplings in Thai Red Curry Sauce Recipe a try—it’s such a delightful way to enjoy dumplings with a bold Thai twist. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite feel like a little celebration of comfort food with a global flair. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen.