Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute to release its oils.
Pour in the coconut milk (or cream), chicken stock, fish sauce and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer, then carefully drop in the dumplings. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through. Add the bok choy for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Ladle into bowls and top with bean sprouts, coriander, chilli (if using), fried shallots and a squeeze of lime.
