Best Wonton Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines delicate, homemade wontons with a savory, aromatic broth. The wontons are typically filled with a mixture of seasoned ground pork (or shrimp, or a combination), and they are cooked until tender in a fragrant broth made from chicken or pork stock. This soup is perfect for any season and can be enjoyed as a light appetizer or a hearty main dish. The balance of fresh herbs, umami from soy sauce, and the softness of the wontons creates a satisfying and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Wontons:

  • 1/2 lb ground pork (or shrimp, or a combination of both)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional, for added umami)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 package wonton wrappers (about 30-40 pieces)
  • Water for sealing wontons

For the Broth:

  • 6 cups chicken broth (or pork broth)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 2 slices ginger (optional, for added depth)
  • 1 star anise (optional, for a hint of spice)
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2-3 green onions (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Chili oil (optional, for added spice)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Wonton Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground pork (or shrimp), chopped green onions, mushrooms (if using), soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. The cornstarch helps bind the filling together and gives it a nice texture.
  2. Assemble the Wontons: Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Dampen the edges of the wrapper with a little water using your finger, then fold the wrapper over the filling to create a triangle shape. Pinch the edges to seal tightly. To form traditional wonton shapes, bring the two opposite corners together and pinch them, forming a little “purse.” Repeat until all the wontons are made.
  3. Make the Broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger slices, star anise, and smashed garlic. Bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can strain out the ginger and garlic slices if you prefer a smoother broth or leave them in for extra flavor.
  4. Cook the Wontons: Bring the broth to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the wontons into the simmering broth, one at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let them cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until the wontons float to the top and the filling is fully cooked.
  5. Serve: Ladle the hot broth and wontons into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions, cilantro, and a drizzle of chili oil if you like a bit of heat. Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~150-200 kcal (for 6 wontons with broth)
  • Protein: ~10-12 g
  • Fat: ~6-8 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15-20 g
  • Fiber: ~1-2 g
  • Sugars: ~2-3 g
  • Sodium: ~800-1,000 mg (depending on soy sauce and broth used)
  • Vitamin A: ~5-10% of the Daily Value (from green onions and cilantro)
  • Calcium: ~5% of the Daily Value (from broth)

Notes:

  • Wonton Filling Variations: You can use ground chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein. For a more traditional filling, use a combination of ground pork and shrimp. Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, like oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or a pinch of five-spice powder for extra flavor.
  • Vegetarian Wontons: For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with finely chopped vegetables such as cabbage, mushrooms, or tofu, and season with soy sauce and sesame oil.
  • Broth Variations: You can add a splash of Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine) or fish sauce for more complexity in the broth. If you like it spicy, add some chili paste or fresh chilies to the broth while it simmers.
  • Freezing Wontons: You can make extra wontons and freeze them! Lay the assembled wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, store them in a freezer bag. To cook, just add them directly to the broth without thawing and cook as usual.
  • Serving Tips: For a heartier soup, you can add bok choy, baby spinach, or sliced mushrooms to the broth right before adding the wontons.

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Best Wonton Soup, perfect for a cozy meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds with every spoonful!