Wonton Soup is a warm and comforting bowl that features little dumplings filled with meat or veggies, swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
On a chilly day, there’s nothing better than curling up with this delicious soup. I sometimes add extra greens for a colorful twist—because why not have a bit of fun with it? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork: This is the most common filling for wontons. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, ground chicken or shrimp works well too! For a vegetarian version, try using finely chopped mushrooms or tofu with the same seasonings.
Wonton Wrappers: These can usually be found in the fridge section of the grocery store. If you can’t find them, you could make thin pasta sheets instead. Just cut them into squares, but the texture will change a bit.
Bok Choy: Baby bok choy adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it for spinach, napa cabbage, or any leafy green you like. Just adjust cooking time based on how quickly your chosen green wilts.
How Do You Seal Wontons Properly?
The sealing of wontons is key to keeping the filling intact while cooking. Here’s an easy way to do it:
- After placing the filling in the center, use your finger to wet the edges of the wrapper with water.
- Fold it diagonally to form a triangle and press the edges firmly to seal out any air.
- For the traditional shape, bring the two ends of the triangle together, overlapping slightly, and pinch to seal.
- Make sure there are no gaps or holes for the filling to escape!
This might take a little practice, but it’s fun to get creative with different shapes, too!
How to Make Wonton Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Wontons:
- 1/2 lb ground pork (or chicken/shrimp)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 40 wonton wrappers
For The Soup:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 4 oz baby bok choy (or spinach)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and white pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy a steaming bowl of wonton soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Wonton Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork (or your choice of protein), chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and salt. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks lively.
2. Fill the Wontons:
Take a wonton wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface. Scoop about 1 teaspoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill it! Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a bit of water to help it seal. Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to create a triangle, and press the edges firmly to seal. For an extra touch, you can bring the two opposite corners of the triangle together and pinch them to create a classic wonton shape. Keep going until you’ve used up all your filling!
3. Cook the Wontons:
Now, in a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add in the soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor. Gently place the filled wontons into the boiling broth. Cook them for about 4–5 minutes, or until they float to the top and look tender.
4. Add the Greens:
Once your wontons are floating and looking good, add in the bok choy (or spinach) to the broth and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This will help the greens to wilt while keeping them nice and vibrant.
5. Taste and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper if necessary. When you’re happy with the flavor, ladle the soup and wontons into bowls. Finish it off by garnishing with the sliced green onions. Serve hot with chopsticks and a soup spoon, and get ready to enjoy this delicious warming dish!
Enjoy your homemade wonton soup! It’s perfect for sharing or just snuggling up by yourself on a cozy day!
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Wontons?
Absolutely! While ground pork is traditional, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken, shrimp, or even finely chopped mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
How to Store Leftover Wonton Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have leftover wontons, it’s best to store them separately from the soup to avoid sogginess. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze Wontons Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked wontons! Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. You can cook them straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute! You could also use water with additional seasonings for a lighter flavor. Just remember to adjust the salt and seasoning accordingly to enhance the taste!
