Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of wonton soup. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of savory broth and tender wontons, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Let’s dive into making this classic favorite at home.
Why This Recipe Works
- The broth is simmered with aromatics like ginger and garlic, infusing it with deep, savory flavors.
- Homemade wontons are filled with a juicy pork and shrimp mixture, offering a delightful texture contrast.
- Using both chicken and pork bones for the broth ensures a rich and complex flavor profile.
- The addition of bok choy adds a fresh, crisp element to the soup.
- This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and ingredients to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 package wonton wrappers
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups pork bone broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 2 heads bok choy, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prepare the Wonton Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture should be sticky and hold together well. Tip: For extra flavor, let the filling sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before wrapping.
Wrap the Wontons
Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Wet the edges with water, then fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal, then bring the two corners of the long side together and pinch to secure. Tip: Don’t overfill the wontons to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
Make the Broth
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, pork bone broth, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Strain the broth to remove the solids, then return it to the pot.
Cook the Wontons
Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Add the wontons in batches, cooking for about 5 minutes or until they float to the surface and the filling is cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Assemble the Soup
Add the bok choy to the broth and cook for 2 minutes until just wilted. Divide the cooked wontons among bowls, ladle the hot broth and bok choy over them, and garnish with sliced green onions. Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips and Tricks
For a clearer broth, skim off any foam that rises to the surface during simmering. If you’re short on time, store-bought wonton wrappers and broth can be used, but homemade will always taste better. To freeze wontons, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the pork and shrimp with a mixture of mushrooms, tofu, and cabbage.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili oil or sliced fresh chilies to the broth for heat.
- Different Proteins: Try using chicken or turkey instead of pork for the wonton filling.
- Extra Greens: Spinach or kale can be used in place of bok choy.
- Noodle Addition: Add cooked egg noodles to the soup for a more substantial meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the wontons ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the wontons up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Alternatively, freeze them for up to a month. Just remember to dust them with a little cornstarch to prevent sticking if you’re layering them.
How do I know when the wontons are cooked through?
The wontons will float to the surface when they’re nearly done. To ensure the filling is cooked, you can cut one open after it floats to check that there’s no pinkness left in the meat.
Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, store-bought broth is a convenient alternative. For the best flavor, opt for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt level, and consider enhancing it with extra garlic, ginger, or a splash of soy sauce.
Summary
This wonton soup recipe broth is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day. With homemade wontons and a rich, aromatic broth, it’s sure to become a favorite. Customize it with your favorite variations and enjoy!