Delight in the simplicity and depth of flavor that this traditional wonton soup brings to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade broth and tender wontons.
Why This Recipe Works
- The homemade broth is simmered to perfection, infusing every spoonful with rich, savory flavors.
- Handcrafted wontons filled with a juicy pork and shrimp mixture offer a delightful texture contrast.
- Simple yet aromatic garnishes like green onions and sesame oil elevate the dish without overpowering it.
- This recipe strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and accessibility, using ingredients easily found in most US supermarkets.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- For the broth: 8 cups chicken stock, 2 slices ginger, 2 green onions (whole), 1 tbsp soy sauce
- For the wontons: 1/2 lb ground pork, 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and minced), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp white pepper, 1 package wonton wrappers
- For garnish: 2 green onions (chopped), 1 tsp sesame oil
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Slotted spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, ginger slices, and whole green onions. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer broth.
Step 2: Make the Wonton Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Mix vigorously until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined. This ensures your wontons will be juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Assemble the Wontons
Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of a wonton wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold into your desired shape, and press to seal. Repeat until all filling is used. Tip: Keep the unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Wontons
Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Add the wontons in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes or until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and divide among serving bowls.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
Ladle the hot broth over the wontons in each bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade wonton soup.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful broth, consider adding a piece of star anise or a small cinnamon stick during the simmering process. If you’re short on time, store-bought broth can be used, but the depth of flavor won’t be quite the same. To ensure your wontons don’t stick together during cooking, give them a gentle stir after adding them to the broth. For a vegetarian version, substitute the pork and shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms and tofu, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Wonton Soup: Add a teaspoon of chili oil or a few slices of fresh chili to the broth for a spicy kick.
- Chicken Wontons: Substitute the pork and shrimp with ground chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Wontons: Use a mix of finely chopped vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Seafood Wontons: Replace the pork with additional seafood like crab meat or scallops for a luxurious twist.
- Herbed Broth: Infuse the broth with herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the wontons? Absolutely! Arrange the uncooked wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I prevent the wontons from breaking during cooking? Ensure the edges are well sealed and avoid overcrowding the pot. Cooking in batches helps maintain a gentle boil, which is less likely to break the wontons.
Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers? Yes, store-bought wrappers work perfectly fine and are a great time-saver. Just make sure to keep them moist until you’re ready to use them.
Summary
This traditional wonton soup recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich homemade broth and tender, juicy wontons, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.