Here's what you'll need.
This is a great dumpling brand. You can find this, as well as all other ingredients listed in your local Asian market. It's also much cheaper to shop there. This entire dish - enough to feed four - cost less than $10.00.
Mix everything in the FOR THE BROTH LIQUIDS/SEASONINGS section and bring broth to a gentle simmer.
Chop and prepare everything in the FOR THE HERBS & VEGETABLES section.
Add everything to your simmering broth except for the dumplings, Thai Basil and 1 cup reserved bean sprouts. And OPTIONS.
[unless you opt for the carrots]
Allow your vegetables and herbs to simmer for 30 minutes.
Bring pot up to a steady boil and add your frozen dumplings and your reserved 1 cup of sprouts. It's important your reserve your 1 cup sprouts be added last for texture, bite and snap.
At 10 minutes in to your dumpling boil, add your Thai Basil. Then simmer 5 minutes longer. This is another important step. The fresh Thai Basil will add to the sweetness.
Stir constantly as so your dumplings don't stick together. Because they will. Also, stir from the bottom as to not break up your dumplings.
You'll know your dumplings are fully cooked when they float.
Know your soup will thicken up with the addition of your dumplings.
Serve immediately with sides of fresh lime wedges, fresh Cilantro leaves, garlic chilie sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce and fresh Thai Basil.
Thai Basil really does make this dish! So does the chilled pickled Ginger! Try just one hot dumpling with chilled pickled ginger on it. I swear, it's a freaking life changer!
Enjoy!
