Make the Dumpling Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually pour in the water while stirring with a fork or your fingers until a soft dough forms. Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 20 minutes, allowing the gluten to relax.
Prepare the Dumpling Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until their aromas are released. Incorporate the sliced mushrooms, cooking them until they're tender and slightly browned. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly before using.
Shape the Dumplings: After resting, divide the dough into small equal portions, rolling each into a ball about 1-inch in diameter. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin circle approximately 3 inches wide. Place a small spoonful of the cooled mushroom filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pinching the edges firmly together to seal the dumplings. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling have been used.
Make the Soup Base: In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, coconut milk, red curry paste, and soy sauce. Stir everything together until the red curry paste is fully dissolved. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Dumplings: Carefully drop the prepared dumplings into the simmering broth one by one. Allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are completely cooked through. This floating indicates that they’re ready!
Add Greens and Finish: Once the dumplings are done, stir in the baby spinach and freshly squeezed lime juice, allowing the spinach to wilt for approximately 1 minute. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or lime juice for extra flavor.
Serve: Ladle the fragrant soup into serving bowls, garnishing each bowl with chopped fresh cilantro and slices of red chili for a vibrant and spicy touch. Enjoy your aromatic soup while it’s warm!
Notes
Consider serving the soup with a lime wedge on the side for an additional burst of flavor. A sprinkle of extra cilantro on top adds a nice visual touch!