Wonton Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Homemade Wonton Soup is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a warm bowl filled with mini frozen wontons, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or as an appetizer alongside your favorite Chinese takeaway, this soup is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With only 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you have a delicious soup ready in just 20 minutes.
- Flavorful Ingredients – The combination of sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables creates a rich flavor that will warm your soul.
- Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a main course or as an appetizer; this wonton soup fits any dining occasion perfectly.
- Healthy Option – Packed with nutritious ingredients like bok choy and shiitake mushrooms, this dish is both tasty and healthy.
- Easy to Customize – Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add extra spices according to your preference for a unique twist.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Homemade Wonton Soup, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure you create the best soup possible.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot – Essential for boiling the broth and cooking the wontons evenly.
- Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without mess.
- Knife – A sharp knife allows for quick and precise cutting of ingredients like scallions and mushrooms.
Ingredients
For the Broth
- 3 tsp sesame oil (divided)
- 3 scallions (diced small, white and green parts separated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp grated ginger (or ginger paste)
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (stems removed; other types of fresh mushrooms also work; do not use canned)
- 48 oz. (6 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
For the Vegetables
- 4 baby bok choy (leaves separated, ends trimmed, and thoroughly washed)
For the Wontons
- 30 frozen mini wontons
Additional Flavorings
- 1½ tbsp soy sauce
- 1½ tbsp shaoxing apple vinegar (or mirin or dry sherry)
- Drizzle of chili oil (for serving, optional)
How to Make Wonton Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, warm 2 teaspoons of the sesame oil over medium heat. Once shimmering:
1. Add in the white parts of the scallions.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger.
3. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms.
4. Stir constantly until the mushrooms have softened, about 4 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth; bring to a boil:
1. Once boiling, add in the baby bok choy.
2. Then add in the frozen wontons.
3. Reduce heat to a gentle bubble and cook for about 5 minutes until bok choy is wilted and wontons float to the top.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Remove from heat:
1. Stir in the green parts of the scallions.
2. Add remaining teaspoon of sesame oil.
3. Mix in soy sauce and Shaoxing apple vinegar.
Step 4: Serve
Ladle soup into bowls with approximately 5 wontons per serving:
– Drizzle with chili oil if desired before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Wonton Soup!
How to Serve Wonton Soup
Wonton soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a light meal or a starter, there are numerous serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Light Meal
- Serve it warm in a bowl for a comforting solo meal.
- Pair with steamed rice on the side for added substance.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to enhance flavor.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick if desired.
Accompanied by Dipping Sauces
- Offer soy sauce or hoisin sauce on the side for dipping wontons.
- A mix of sesame oil and vinegar makes for a zesty accompaniment.
With Squeezed Lime
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors.
- It adds a refreshing contrast to the savory broth.
As an Appetizer
- Serve small portions as an appetizer before main courses.
- This works well for family dinners or gatherings.
How to Perfect Wonton Soup
To ensure your wonton soup is always delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried or canned options.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the broth before serving and adjust soy sauce or vinegar for your preferred saltiness and acidity.
- Cook wontons carefully: Avoid overcooking frozen wontons; they should float when done but remain tender.
- Control heat: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer after adding bok choy and wontons to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Experiment with toppings: Try various garnishes like crispy fried onions or chili flakes to customize each bowl.
Best Side Dishes for Wonton Soup
Pairing sides with your wonton soup can make your meal even more enjoyable. Consider these delicious options that complement the flavors of the soup.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a delightful crunch.
- Steamed Dumplings: These offer another layer of texture and flavor, perfect alongside soup.
- Fried Rice: A savory rice dish can serve as a hearty accompaniment that balances the lightness of the soup.
- Asian Salad: A fresh salad with sesame dressing adds crispness and brightness to your meal.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles tossed in sesame sauce create a satisfying contrast to hot soup.
- Char Siu Bao: These fluffy buns filled with BBQ pork are great for dipping into broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Wonton Soup at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping the aromatics: Many recipes overlook the importance of aromatics like garlic and ginger. Always sauté them to enhance flavor before adding broth.
Using high-sodium broth: Using regular chicken broth can make your wonton soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium versions to keep the flavors balanced.
Overcooking the wontons: Frozen wontons cook quickly. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they float to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Neglecting fresh greens: Adding bok choy or other greens at the right time is crucial. Add them too early, and they will lose their vibrant color and crispness.
Forgetting seasoning adjustments: After cooking, taste your soup before serving. You might need a dash more soy sauce or vinegar for that perfect balance.
Not customizing to taste: Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients like chili oil or scallions for a personal touch. Experimenting with flavors makes your wonton soup unique!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Keep separate containers for wontons and broth if possible; this helps maintain texture.
Freezing Wonton Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.
- Consider freezing broth and wontons separately for easier reheating.
Reheating Wonton Soup
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches a simmer, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wonton Soup?
Wonton Soup is a flavorful Asian dish that features tender wontons filled with meat or vegetables served in a savory broth with greens like bok choy.
How can I customize my Homemade Wonton Soup?
You can add different vegetables, such as spinach or carrots, adjust seasoning levels, or incorporate spices like chili oil or sesame seeds for added flavor.
Can I make Wonton Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and fill the wontons with vegetables or tofu instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
How do I know when my wontons are cooked?
Wontons are done cooking when they float to the top of the broth. You can cut one open to check if it’s heated through.
Can I use fresh wontons instead of frozen ones?
Absolutely! If using fresh wontons, you may need to adjust cooking time slightly since they generally cook faster than frozen ones.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Wonton Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect as a light dinner or appetizer. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Homemade Wonton Soup
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Homemade Wonton Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender wontons, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth, making it perfect for any meal or occasion. In just 20 minutes, you can prepare this comforting soup that delights with every spoonful. The savory broth infused with sesame oil, garlic, and ginger pairs beautifully with the delicate flavors of baby bok choy and shiitake mushrooms. Whether you enjoy it as a light main course or as an appetizer to complement your favorite Chinese takeout, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
- 48 oz low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 baby bok choy
- 30 frozen mini wontons
- Soy sauce and Shaoxing vinegar for seasoning
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Warm sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add white scallion parts, garlic, ginger, and mushrooms; sauté until softened.
- Prepare the broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add bok choy and frozen wontons; reduce heat and simmer until cooked.
- Season the soup: Stir in green scallion parts, remaining sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls with approximately five wontons each; drizzle with chili oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate other fresh vegetables like spinach or carrots. Adjust seasoning according to taste for perfect flavor balance. Wontons are done when they float to the top; avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.