Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wontons
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork (or pork and shrimp), green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, white pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Fill the Wontons:
- Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of the filling to the center.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold it in half to form a triangle, and press the edges to seal.
- Bring the two bottom corners of the triangle together and press them to form the traditional wonton shape. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 2: Make the Broth
- In a large pot, bring the chicken or pork stock to a gentle boil.
- Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger slices, garlic cloves, and green onion pieces. Let the broth simmer for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Season with salt to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Wontons
- Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the wontons in small batches and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This indicates they are fully cooked.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked wontons to serving bowls.
Step 4: Assemble the Soup
- Strain the broth to remove the ginger, garlic, and green onion pieces, if desired.
- Ladle the hot broth over the wontons in each bowl.
- Garnish with chopped scallions, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Wrappers Moist: Wonton wrappers can dry out quickly. Cover them with a damp cloth while assembling the wontons to keep them pliable.
- Test the Filling: Cook a small amount of the filling before assembling all the wontons to adjust seasoning if needed.
- Batch Freezing: If you have extra wontons, freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen.
- Enhance the Broth: For an extra-rich flavor, add a splash of rice wine or a few dried shrimp to the broth while it simmers.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Comforting and Nourishing: The warm, savory broth and tender wontons make this soup a perfect comfort food.
- Customizable: Adjust the filling, broth, and garnishes to suit your taste.
- Versatile: Serve it as a starter, side dish, or light main course.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store cooked wontons and broth separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Combine them when reheating to maintain the wontons’ texture.
- Reheat: Warm the broth on the stovetop and add the wontons, cooking just until heated through.
Conclusion
Wonton soup is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or sharing it with loved ones, this classic soup offers a taste of tradition and comfort in every bowl. Try it at home, and experience the joy of crafting your own delicious wonton soup from scratch.
