Classic Wonton Soup Recipe

Wonton soup is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its delicate wontons swimming in a savory broth. With its balance of flavors and simple preparation, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe will guide you through crafting a hearty wonton soup from scratch, offering tips to make it truly exceptional.

Ingredients for Wonton Soup

Gather these ingredients to prepare a flavorful wonton soup:

For the Wontons:

• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shrimp (optional for added flavor)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 30–40 wonton wrappers

For the Broth:

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 slices fresh ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 3 green onions, sliced

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Thinly sliced green onions
• Chili oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and white pepper.
2. Mix well until the filling is evenly combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Wontons

1. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of filling into the center.
2. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, pressing to seal the edges tightly.
4. Bring the two bottom corners of the triangle together and press to seal, forming a “pouch” shape.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, ginger slices, smashed garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 10–15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove the ginger and garlic pieces before adding the wontons.

Step 4: Cook the Wontons

1. Gently add the wontons to the simmering broth. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the wontons float to the surface and the filling is fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve the Wonton Soup

1. Ladle the broth and wontons into bowls.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of chili oil for added heat, if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Pair the soup with steamed dumplings or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• Offer soy sauce or vinegar on the side for dipping wontons.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store the soup and wontons separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked wontons on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen in the broth when ready.

Helpful Notes

1. Choosing the Protein:
   Ground pork is traditional, but ground chicken or turkey can also be used.
2. Pre-made Wonton Wrappers:
   These save time and are available at most grocery stores in the refrigerated or freezer section.
3. Customize the Filling:
   Add finely chopped water chestnuts, mushrooms, or bok choy for additional texture.
4. Vegetarian Version:
   Use a mixture of finely chopped tofu, mushrooms, and green onions for the filling and substitute vegetable broth.
5. Enhancing the Broth:
   Add a splash of rice wine vinegar or fish sauce for extra depth.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Martin Yan: Stresses the importance of not overfilling the wontons to avoid breakage during cooking.
• Ken Hom: Recommends using fresh, high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Ming Tsai: Suggests using shrimp in the filling for a more luxurious taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make wontons ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day or freeze for longer storage.

2. What can I use if I don’t have wonton wrappers?

Dumpling wrappers or even thinly rolled-out pasta sheets can be cut to size.

3. Can I use store-bought wontons?

Absolutely. They save time and work well in the soup.

4. How do I keep the wontons from sticking together?

Place them on a lightly floured tray or parchment paper while assembling.

5. Can I make the soup spicy?

Add chili flakes, a drizzle of chili oil, or spicy sesame oil to the broth.

6. What’s the best way to reheat wonton soup?

Heat the broth separately from the wontons to avoid overcooking them.

7. How do I prevent wonton wrappers from tearing?

Be gentle when handling them and avoid overstuffing.

8. Can I substitute pork with beef?

Yes, ground beef works well but may slightly alter the flavor profile.

9. What sides go well with wonton soup?

Serve with spring rolls, fried rice, or a simple Asian-style salad.

10. How do I make the broth more flavorful?

Simmer it with extra aromatics like star anise, cinnamon sticks, or scallions.