Save This comforting wonton soup brings together plump pork and shrimp dumplings in a scented chicken broth, finished with a swirl of sesame oil and a handful of fresh scallions. Each spoonful is heartwarming and satisfying, perfect for cozy nights or moments when only a hug in a bowl will do.
When I first tackled homemade wontons, I never imagined it would become such a treasured ritual. My kids now call it our Sunday night project, and all those imperfect first folds are some of my favorite kitchen memories.
Ingredients
- Ground pork: for rich flavor and juicy texture look for pork that is not overly lean for better tenderness
- Raw shrimp: for natural sweetness and a springy bite opt for fresh wild shrimp when possible
- Spring onions: for a gentle sharpness and freshness buy vibrant green ones with no slimy layers
- Soy sauce: to heighten umami choose naturally brewed for better depth
- Shaoxing wine or dry sherry: for classic aroma and complexity select a reputable brand for best results
- Sesame oil: for nutty warmth only pure toasted sesame oil gives that classic finish
- Freshly grated ginger: for a lift of brightness use a plump piece of ginger with smooth skin
- White pepper: for subtle heat instead of black pepper for a true Chinese profile
- Sugar: just a whisper to balance saltiness use plain white or organic cane sugar
- Salt: to enhance every flavor
- Wonton wrappers: for delicate dumplings check that they are pliable and not dried out
- Chicken stock: for a full bodied broth homemade is unequaled but low sodium cartons can also shine
- Fresh ginger and garlic: for aromatic undertones always use fresh slices for clearest taste
- Garnishes like sliced spring onions, coriander, and optional chili oil: to highlight flavors and add brightness
Instructions
- Make the Filling:
- Gently combine ground pork chopped shrimp finely sliced spring onions soy sauce Shaoxing wine sesame oil freshly grated ginger white pepper sugar and salt in a mixing bowl Work the mixture until it becomes sticky and cohesive This helps the filling hold together and creates the wontons signature bouncy texture
- Shape the Wontons:
- Set a wonton wrapper in your non dominant palm Place a generous teaspoon of filling in the center Dip a finger in water and trace the edge of the wrapper Fold into a triangle smoothing out air pockets and firmly press the edges to seal Bring the two far corners together and pinch Seal tightly so they do not open while cooking Continue until all filling and wrappers are used
- Cook the Wontons:
- Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil Slip wontons in a few at a time so they do not stick Stir very gently to prevent clumping Watch for the wontons to float and turn slightly translucent after three to four minutes Remove them with a slotted spoon as soon as they are done this keeps them tender not mushy
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a separate pot combine chicken stock ginger slices crushed garlic soy sauce and sesame oil Bring to a simmer and gently cook for ten minutes This extracts flavor without clouding the broth Take out the ginger and garlic for a clear smooth soup Taste and adjust salt if needed
- Assemble the Soup:
- Divide cooked wontons evenly among four deep bowls Ladle the hot broth directly over the top this keeps the wontons silky and heated all the way through
- Add Garnishes:
- Finish each bowl with freshly sliced spring onions a few coriander leaves if you like and a drizzle of chili oil for heat This step wakes up all the flavors right before serving
Save One of my favorite tricks is using fresh ginger in both the filling and the broth it brightens the whole soup. The very first time I let my little ones pinch the dumpling edges we laughed for hours over misfolds. Now those lopsided wontons taste the best because of who made them.
Storage Tips
Store cooked broth and wontons separately in the fridge for up to three days Wontons reheat gently in simmering water to keep them soft and smooth. Never leave wontons sitting in broth for hours or they will absorb liquid and lose their delicate texture. Always cool completely before refrigerating.
Easy Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground chicken or turkey in place of pork if desired For a seafood focused soup double the shrimp and skip the pork Diced firm tofu and finely chopped mushrooms are a fantastic vegetarian swap Choose vegetable broth for an entirely plant based version
Serving Suggestions
Present your bowls with mild chili oil on the side or offer pickled vegetables as a crunchy topping Steamed Asian greens are the perfect mate for this light soup For added noodles use thin egg noodles and drop a small bundle into each bowl
A Taste of Tradition
Wonton soup is a cherished comfort throughout Cantonese homes where folding dumplings is a social event often tied to celebrations Each dumpling symbolizes prosperity and warmth shared around the table
Seasonal Adaptations
Add blanched bok choy or baby spinach in spring and summer for extra freshness Slip in a handful of sweet corn kernels for a late summer twist For fall and winter stir in a spoonful of chili crisp for cozy heat
Success Stories
Many families have told me this soup was their first homemade dumpling adventure With clear instructions the folding gets easy quickly and the homemade flavor dramatically outshines any takeout version Leftovers rarely last beyond the next day
Freezer Meal Conversion
Line a baking tray with parchment lay shaped uncooked wontons in a single layer and freeze until solid Transfer to a freezer bag so they stay separate and cook directly from frozen adding two extra minutes to the cooking time The broth can also be frozen in pint containers for up to three months
Save Enjoy the deep comfort and vibrant flavors of wonton soup no matter the season. Folding wontons together is the best way to bring warmth right to your table.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes the broth flavorful?
The broth is infused with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil for depth and aroma.
- → Can I make vegetarian wontons?
Yes, use finely chopped mushrooms and tofu in place of pork and shrimp for a vegetarian filling.
- → How do I shape wontons correctly?
Fold the wrapper into a triangle with moistened edges, then seal and bring corners together for the classic shape.
- → Which garnish enhances the soup?
Sliced spring onions, fresh coriander, and a drizzle of chili oil add freshness and flavor complexity.
- → Can the soup be made ahead of time?
You can prepare wontons in advance and freeze them; cook in broth just before serving for best texture.
- → Is homemade chicken stock necessary?
Homemade or low-sodium store-bought chicken stock both work well, but homemade offers richer flavor.