Best Wonton Soup Recipe
Wonton soup is a timeless Chinese comfort food known for its delicate wontons swimming in a light, flavorful broth. Each wonton is a little parcel filled with a savory mixture, typically pork and shrimp, that bursts with flavor in every bite. This homemade version is simple to make and rivals the taste of your favorite restaurant. Here’s how to make the best wonton soup step-by-step.
Ingredients for Wonton Soup
For the Wontons:
- Ground beef: ½ pound
- Shrimp: ¼ pound, finely chopped (optional for added flavor)
- Green onions: 2, finely chopped
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Wonton wrappers: 25-30
For the Broth:
- Chicken broth: 6 cups (low-sodium)
- Ginger: 2 slices, fresh
- Garlic: 2 cloves, smashed
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Bok choy or baby spinach: 2 cups
- Green onions: 2, thinly sliced for garnish
- Salt and white pepper: To taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Mushrooms: Sliced for added depth
- Water chestnuts: Thinly sliced for crunch
- Red pepper flakes: For heat
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or fork for mixing
- Small dish of water (for sealing wontons)
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Wonton Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp (if using), green onions, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
- Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and spoon about 1 teaspoon of the filling into the center.
- Dip your finger in the dish of water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing to seal the edges tightly and expelling any air.
- Bring the two bottom corners together, overlapping them slightly, and press to seal, forming a classic wonton shape.
- Repeat until all the filling is used.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ginger slices and smashed garlic and simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper as needed.
Step 4: Cook the Wontons
- Gently add the wontons to the simmering broth. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the wontons float to the surface and the filling is cooked through.
- Add the bok choy or baby spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each bowl gets several wontons and some greens.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
- Pair with a light side of steamed vegetables or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If storing wontons separately, keep them in a sealed container and reheat them gently in the broth.
- Freezer: Uncooked wontons can be frozen on a baking sheet and transferred to a freezer bag once solid. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful Notes
- Make ahead: Assemble and freeze uncooked wontons for a quick soup option later.
- Custom fillings: Substitute pork with chicken, tofu, or vegetable fillings for different dietary preferences.
- Broth flavor: For a more intense flavor, add a spoonful of chicken bouillon or a dash of fish sauce.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ken Hom: Advises adding a touch of rice wine or sherry to the wonton filling for extra depth.
- Martin Yan: Recommends folding wontons simply to ensure a tight seal and even cooking.
- Ming Tsai: Suggests using homemade chicken stock for an authentic, rich base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use pre-made wontons?
Yes, store-bought wontons are a convenient option and can be used directly in the soup.
2. What can I use if I don’t have wonton wrappers?
Use dumpling wrappers or make homemade dough by combining flour, water, and a pinch of salt.
3. Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a filling of tofu, mushrooms, and cabbage.
4. How do I prevent wontons from sticking together?
Place wontons on a floured surface or parchment paper before cooking to keep them from sticking.
5. Can I add noodles to the soup?
Yes, thin noodles like rice noodles or lo mein can be added for extra heartiness.
6. What are good substitutions for shrimp?
Leave out the shrimp or replace it with finely chopped mushrooms or ground chicken.
7. What toppings go well with wonton soup?
Chili oil, fried garlic, or sesame seeds add great flavor and texture.
8. Can I cook the wontons separately?
Yes, boil the wontons in water and then add them to the soup to maintain a clear broth.
9. How do I know the wontons are cooked?
Wontons are done when they float to the surface, indicating the filling is cooked through.
10. How can I make the soup spicy?
Add sliced chili peppers or a spoonful of chili paste to the broth.
Enjoy this comforting, flavorful wonton soup as an easy homemade alternative to takeout that’s perfect for any time you crave a warm, savory bowl!