There's something truly magical about the comfort of homemade soup, especially when it’s as versatile and inviting as wonton soup. As the steam rises from a bowl filled with tender wontons and savory broth, you know it’s the perfect antidote to a long day or a dreary weather day. This wonton soup recipe not only warms the soul but is also a quick triumph in the kitchen, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet night in, every spoonful of this dish is sure to bring a smile. Ready to dive into a bowl of nostalgia? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Wonton Soup So Special?
Heartwarming Comfort: There's nothing like a steaming bowl of wonton soup to wrap you in warmth and nostalgia.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Delight: With options for both pork and shrimp, plus the ability to switch up the filling, you can create a personalized experience for everyone at the table.
Savory Broth: The rich flavor of the broth beautifully complements the tender wontons, delivering a delightful taste in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve it up at your next dinner party for a comforting, fulfilling experience. For more hearty soup options, check out our delicious soup recipes.
Wonton Soup Ingredients
• Perfect for a cozy night in!
For the Filling
- Pork or shrimp – Choose your favorite protein for a heartier flavor in your dumplings.
- Garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth and a flavorful kick to your filling.
- Ginger, minced – This adds a fresh, zesty note that brightens up the dish.
- Soy sauce – A crucial ingredient for that authentic umami taste.
- Sesame oil – Infuses a rich, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
For the Broth
- Chicken or vegetable broth – The base of your soup, choose according to your preference for a hearty or light flavor.
For the Wontons
- Wonton wrappers – These little pockets hold all your delicious filling, creating that perfect dumpling.
For Garnishing
- Green onions, chopped – Adds a fresh crunch and bright color to each bowl of wonton soup.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wonton Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of diced pork or shrimp with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of minced ginger, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Use a fork to mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This flavorful filling should have a nice aroma and a slightly sticky texture, which will help it adhere to the wonton wrappers.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
Take a wonton wrapper and place a small spoonful of the filling in the center. With a fingertip, dampen the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle, pressing out any air pockets, and then pinch the edges firmly to seal. Ensure that the wontons are tightly closed to prevent leaking during cooking. Repeat until all filling is used.
Step 3: Boil the Broth
In a large pot, pour 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to release the warmth and flavor throughout the broth. As the broth heats up, prepare your wontons nearby, ready to cook. Make sure the broth is bubbling well before you add the wontons for optimal cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Wontons
Once the broth is boiling, gently add the assembled wontons into the pot. Allow them to cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This floating indicates they are fully cooked and tender. As the wontons rise, you may wish to stir gently to prevent sticking, ensuring each wonton is beautifully cooked throughout.
Step 5: Serve Your Wonton Soup
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the wontons from the broth and place them in bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the wontons, ensuring they are well-covered. Garnish each bowl with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Your homemade wonton soup is now ready to be savored, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.
How to Store and Freeze Wonton Soup
Fridge: Store leftover wonton soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again without losing freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until fully heated. Avoid boiling to keep the wontons tender.
Assembly Tip: If you want to keep the wontons from getting soggy, freeze the broth and wontons separately. This allows you to enjoy freshly cooked wontons with your warm broth whenever you crave some comforting wonton soup.
Wonton Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this comforting wonton soup your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Vegetarian: Swap the pork or shrimp for finely chopped veggies like mushrooms, carrots, and water chestnuts for a fresh, plant-based filling.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the broth for a warm, spicy finish that will awaken your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or rice paper instead, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful creation.
- Herby Boost: Mix in chopped cilantro or fresh basil to the filling for a burst of herbal flavor that brightens each bite.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk to the broth for a luscious, creamy base that'll take your soup to a whole new level of indulgence.
- Noodle Addition: Toss in some cooked noodles, like rice noodles or udon, for added heartiness that turns your soup into a filling meal.
- Flavorful Broth: Enhance the broth with a splash of fish sauce or a few drops of lime juice for extra layers of savory and zesty flavors.
- Egg Drop: For a silky texture, whisk an egg and slowly drizzle it into the broth while stirring gently, creating a heartwarming, eggy goodness in every spoonful.
As you explore these vibrant variations, you’ll find ways to make this dish truly your own. If you’re curious about other comforting dishes, don’t forget to check out our delicious soup recipes or perhaps whip up a batch of your own homemade dumplings for an inspiring culinary adventure!
What to Serve with Wonton Soup
There's nothing quite like enhancing your delicious bowl of soup with scrumptious sides that complement its warmth and flavors.
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Steamed Bok Choy: This vibrant green vegetable adds a crunchy texture and freshness that balances the savory broth beautifully.
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Rice Noodles: Soft and chewy, rice noodles can be tossed into the soup for added substance, making each bite a delightful adventure.
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Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp are the perfect finger food alongside your hot bowl of soup, providing contrast and crunch.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad, dressed in soy and sesame oil, adds a zesty kick and lightness that pairs well with the warm flavors of wonton soup.
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Pork Dumplings: For a hearty twist, serve additional dumplings alongside your soup. They echo the main dish but introduce their delightful filling.
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Chili Oil: A drizzle of spicy chili oil over the soup adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor profile, perfect for those who love an extra kick.
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Jasmine Tea: Pouring a cup of fragrant jasmine tea beside your soup can elevate your meal into a harmonious dining experience that warms the soul.
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Mango Sticky Rice: To finish off your meal with a touch of sweetness, this dessert's creamy and fragrant rice pairs deliciously after the savory meal.
Expert Tips for Wonton Soup
Filling Flavor: Use high-quality pork or shrimp for the filling to enhance the overall flavor of your wonton soup.
Seal Properly: Ensure you seal the wontons tightly to prevent the filling from leaking into the broth while cooking. A little water on the edges helps them stick!
Broth Bliss: For a richer broth, simmer your chicken or vegetable broth with additional aromatics such as scallions, garlic, or ginger before adding the wontons.
Cooking Time: Don’t rush—allow the wontons to float before removing them from the broth. This means they’re perfectly cooked and tender.
Serving Freshness: Garnish with fresh green onions right before serving for a fantastic burst of flavor and color in your wonton soup.
Make Ahead Options
Wonton Soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights. You can prepare the wonton filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the pork or shrimp with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The assembled wontons can also be frozen for up to 3 months; simply put them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a bag for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, drop the frozen wontons directly into boiling broth and cook for about 7-10 minutes until they float, providing you with a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort!
Wonton Soup Recipe FAQs
How should I select the meat for the filling?
Absolutely! When picking your protein, fresh is best! Choose high-quality pork or shrimp that has a firm texture and a pleasant aroma. If using shrimp, look for those that are not overly soft and have a slight snap to them. If you’re going vegetarian, feel free to use mushrooms, tofu, or finely chopped vegetables as a delicious alternative!
What are the best ways to store leftover wonton soup?
For sure! If you have leftover wonton soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it up! You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Remember to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen!
How can I freeze wonton soup and later enjoy the best flavor?
Very good question! To freeze wonton soup properly, I recommend separating the wontons from the broth. First, let the soup cool completely. Pour the broth into a freezer-safe container and the wontons into a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the broth and wontons overnight in the fridge. Reheat the broth gently on the stove, adding freshly cooked wontons to maintain that delightful texture!
What common troubleshooting tips should I keep in mind for my wonton soup?
For sure! If your wontons are falling apart in the broth, they may not have been sealed well enough. Make sure to pinch the edges tightly, and if they appear dry, dampen the edges with water before sealing. If the broth isn't flavorful enough, you can always enhance it by simmering it with added seasonings or aromatics like ginger or garlic.
Can I make this wonton soup recipe suitable for my dietary allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, you can easily modify the recipe! Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or make your own with gluten-free flour. For those avoiding soy, try coconut aminos as an alternative to soy sauce. If you need to replace meat, consider using a mix of finely chopped vegetables and tofu for the filling, and vegetable broth to keep it all plant-based!
How long does it take to prepare and cook the wonton soup?
It’s quick and easy! The total time is just 35 minutes, with 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. This makes it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without the wait!
Warm Up with This Cozy Wonton Soup Recipe You'll Love
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 cup diced pork or shrimp Choose your favorite protein for a heartier flavor.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic Adds aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger Adds a fresh, zesty note.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce Crucial for authentic umami taste.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Infuses a rich, nutty flavor.
For the Broth
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth Base of your soup.
For the Wontons
- 1 pack wonton wrappers Holds the filling.
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Adds fresh crunch.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced pork or shrimp, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Take a wonton wrapper, place a small spoonful of the filling in the center, dampen the edges with water, fold, and seal firmly.
- In a pot, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Prepare wontons nearby.
- Gently add wontons to the boiling broth and cook for 5–7 minutes or until they float.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove wontons from broth, place in bowls, and ladle broth over them. Garnish with green onions.
