There’s nothing quite like sitting down with a steaming bowl of wonton soup on a chilly evening. The warmth rising from the bowl, the delicate wontons floating in golden broth, and the first spoonful that warms you from the inside out—it’s pure comfort. Wonton soup is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch, serving it as a starter for a family dinner, or craving something soothing when you’re under the weather, this soup has a way of making everything feel a little brighter.
Wonton soup is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, enjoyed both at home and in restaurants around the world. The word “wonton” roughly translates to “swallowing clouds,” a poetic description of how these delicate dumplings look as they float in the broth. Each wonton is carefully filled, folded, and simmered, creating a dish that blends tradition with comfort. While it may look intricate, making wonton soup at home is easier than you think and it’s a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the simple art of cooking.
Ingredients
For the filling
- ½ lb ground pork (or chicken)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
For the wontons
- 1 package wonton wrappers (about 40 pieces)
- Small bowl of water (for sealing)
For the broth
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- 3–4 slices fresh ginger
- 2 green onions, cut into large pieces
- Optional: baby bok choy, spinach, or napa cabbage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, ginger, garlic, salt, and white pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. The filling should feel sticky—this helps it bind together inside the wrapper.
Fold the wontons
Place one wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Add about 1 teaspoon of filling to the center. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges to seal tightly. Then, gently bring the two corners together and pinch them, sealing with a dab of water. Don’t worry if your folds aren’t perfect—wontons are beautiful in their variety, and they’ll taste amazing no matter what.
Make the broth
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and green onions, cooking until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes so the flavors meld together. If you’d like, add vegetables like baby bok choy or napa cabbage for extra nutrition and flavor.
Cook the wontons
Bring a separate pot of water to a gentle boil. Drop in the wontons, a few at a time, and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through. Transfer them into serving bowls.
Assemble the soup
Pour the hot broth over the wontons in each bowl, add greens if desired, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Serve immediately while it’s steaming hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill the wontons—just a teaspoon of filling is enough to keep them from bursting open.
- Seal the edges well with water to prevent leaks.
- Cook the wontons in water, not directly in the broth, to keep the soup clear and clean-tasting.
Variations
- Shrimp Wontons: Swap out half the pork for chopped shrimp for a lighter, seafood-inspired version.
- Vegetarian Wontons: Use finely chopped mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu as the filling instead of meat.
- Spicy Wonton Soup: Add chili oil or a spoonful of spicy paste to the broth for a kick of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Wonton soup makes a fantastic light dinner or a first course before stir-fried noodles, fried rice, or a big family-style meal. Pair it with some crispy spring rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete feast. And of course, don’t forget the soy sauce, chili oil, or vinegar on the side for dipping or drizzling.
A Bowl Worth Making
Making wonton soup at home may take a little extra effort, but the process is part of the joy. Folding each wonton, simmering the broth, and serving it steaming hot creates more than just a meal—it creates comfort and tradition. So the next time you’re looking for something cozy, flavorful, and a little bit special, grab some wonton wrappers and give this recipe a try. One taste, and you’ll see why wonton soup has been loved for generations.