Wonton Soup

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Wonton Soup: A Heartwarming Classic with Step-by-Step Instructions

What is Wonton Soup?

Wonton soup is a beloved and timeless classic of Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its elegant simplicity and comforting flavor. It features delicate dumplings, known as wontons, stuffed with seasoned meat and/or seafood, and served in a rich, aromatic broth. Originating from Southern China, particularly from Cantonese traditions, this dish has become a global favorite for both casual meals and festive occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating wonton soup from scratch may seem daunting, but with a few key ingredients and careful preparation, it’s easier than you think.

For the Wontons:

  • 30–40 wonton wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
  • 250g (½ lb) ground pork (or substitute with ground chicken)
  • 100g finely chopped shrimp (optional but highly recommended for added flavor)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry as a substitute)
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the Soup Broth:

  • 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 slice of ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, chopped bok choy, cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Wonton Soup

🥟 Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Filling

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Add the ground pork, chopped shrimp (if using), soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and cornstarch.
  • Season with a small pinch of salt and white pepper.
  • Mix well using a spoon or your hands until the mixture becomes sticky and fully combined.

Tip: Mixing in one direction helps the protein bind better, resulting in firmer, juicier wontons.

🥢 Step 2: Wrap the Wontons

  • Lay a few wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface.
  • Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
  • Dip your finger in water and moisten the wrapper’s edges.
  • Fold diagonally to form a triangle, pressing to seal and squeezing out any air bubbles.
  • Optional: Bring the two bottom corners together and pinch to form the traditional boat shape.

Pro Tip: Keep the unused wrappers and finished wontons under a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

🍜 Step 3: Make the Soup Broth

In a soup pot:

  • Combine chicken broth, water, ginger slice, smashed garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10–15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  • Taste and adjust salt or soy sauce as needed.

Optional: Add bok choy or other leafy greens during the final minutes of simmering for a nutritious boost.

🔥 Step 4: Cook the Wontons

  • In a separate pot, bring water to a rolling boil.
  • Gently drop in the wontons (about 8–10 at a time to avoid crowding).
  • Cook for 4–5 minutes or until they float to the top and the wrappers become slightly translucent.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer directly into serving bowls.

🌿 Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  • Ladle the hot broth over the cooked wontons.
  • Garnish with green onions, cilantro, a splash of chili oil, or extra sesame oil if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately. Each spoonful offers the perfect combination of tender dumpling, umami-rich broth, and comforting warmth.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Wonton Soup

1. Healthier Than Takeout

By controlling the ingredients, especially sodium and fat content, you can craft a nutritionally balanced meal without sacrificing flavor.

2. Freezer-Friendly for Busy Days

Wrap and freeze uncooked wontons on a tray, then transfer to a bag for storage. When ready to cook, boil straight from frozen—no need to thaw.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Try different fillings like:

  • Ground chicken with shiitake mushrooms
  • Chopped shrimp with garlic chives
  • Tofu and vegetables for a vegetarian option

The broth can also be spiced up with chili paste, miso, or a dash of white pepper for extra depth.

Pro Tips for Perfect Wonton Soup

  • Use thin wonton wrappers: They cook quickly and have a delicate texture.
  • Avoid overfilling: Too much filling can tear the wrapper and cause it to burst during cooking.
  • Make it ahead: The filling can be prepped a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Strain your broth: For a clear soup, strain out the ginger and garlic before serving.

Storage and Leftovers

  • Uncooked wontons: Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. Store for up to 3 months.
  • Cooked soup: Store broth and wontons separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Gently warm broth in a saucepan and add wontons just before serving to avoid overcooking.

A Traditional Dish That Warms the Soul

Wonton soup is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of comfort, warmth, and cultural heritage. Whether enjoyed as a starter, a light lunch, or a full dinner, this versatile soup brings people together with every spoonful. Making it at home allows you to experience the rich tradition of Chinese cuisine while enjoying a healthier, deeply satisfying version tailored to your taste.

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