Creating a perfect bowl of dumpling soup is easy when you follow these steps:

1. Make the Dumpling Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center, then add the egg and milk. Stir until combined.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Let it rest for about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Broth: While the dough rests, heat the chicken or vegetable broth in a large pot over medium heat.
4. Sauté Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
5. Combine Broth and Vegetables: Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of broth. Stir in the thyme, parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Make Dumplings: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a spoon to scoop out small dumpling shapes.
7. Cook the Dumplings: Once the broth is boiling, carefully drop the dumplings into the soup. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
8. Simmer: Let the dumplings cook for about 10-15 minutes until they rise to the surface and are cooked through.
9. Add Protein (Optional): If using chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add them in the last few minutes of cooking so they can warm through.
10. Taste and Adjust: Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
11. Serve Hot: Once everything is cooked through, ladle the soup into bowls.