Wonton Soup

Made with mini frozen wontons and classic ingredients like bok choy and mushrooms, this Wonton Soup couldn’t get any easier. It’s ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Enjoy its rich flavors as a light meal on its own or serve it as an appetizer alongside your favorite Asian dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Broth: The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic creates a delicious broth that enhances the taste of the wontons.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with vegetables like bok choy and shiitake mushrooms, this soup is not only tasty but also healthy.
• Comforting Dish: Wonton Soup is perfect for cozy nights in or when you want something warm and comforting.

Tools and Preparation

To make this easy Wonton Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of the ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, making prep quick and efficient.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Broth

• 48 oz. 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

For Flavoring

• 1½ tbsp soy sauce
• 1½ tbsp shaoxing apple vinegar (or mirin or dry apple juice)
• 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, garlic, ginger, and mushrooms.
2. 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. Add in the baby bok choy and frozen wontons.
2. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle bubble.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes until bok choy is wilted and wontons float to the top.

Step 3: Final Touches

Remove from heat:
1. Stir in the green parts of the scallions, remaining teaspoon sesame oil, soy sauce, and Shaoxing apple vinegar.

Step 4: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls with 5 wontons per serving:
– Drizzle with chili oil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Homemade Wonton Soup!

How to Serve Wonton Soup

Wonton Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve the soup in large bowls with extra wontons for a hearty meal.
• Add cooked rice or noodles directly into the soup for added texture and flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic touch.
• Sprinkle chopped mint leaves on top for a refreshing flavor contrast.

Accompanied by Chili Oil

• Drizzle chili oil over individual servings for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Offer chili flakes on the side for guests to customize their heat level.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small bowls of wonton soup before a main course to whet the appetite.
• Pair with spring rolls or dumplings for a complete starter platter.

With Dipping Sauces

• Provide soy sauce or a homemade dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• A mix of sesame oil and vinegar can create a tasty dipping option.

How to Perfect Wonton Soup

Creating the perfect Wonton Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup shines.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: This allows wontons to cook evenly without sticking together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your broth before serving and adjust saltiness with soy sauce as needed.
• Add protein: Consider adding shredded chicken or tofu for extra protein and texture if desired.
• Control cooking time: Keep an eye on your wontons; they should float to the top when fully cooked, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
• Consider garnishes: Toppings like sesame seeds or sliced scallions can elevate the presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Wonton Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Wonton Soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with mixed vegetables provide a crunchy contrast.
2. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings complement the soup’s flavors and add more variety.
3. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in peanut sauce make a delicious side offering.
4. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice can be served alongside for a filling combination.
5. Asian Slaw: A light slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
6. Crab Rangoon: Creamy crab-filled wontons bring richness that pairs well with broth-based soups.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances the warmth of the soup.
8. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame provides a simple yet nutritious side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Wonton Soup at home can be simple, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the broth seasoning: A bland broth can ruin your soup. Always season your chicken broth with soy sauce and vinegar for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the wontons: Cooking wontons for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on them; they only need about 5 minutes in the broth.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using canned mushrooms or wilted greens affects taste and texture. Always opt for fresh produce for the best results.
• Ignoring vegetable preparation: Improperly washed bok choy can lead to gritty soup. Make sure to wash the leaves thoroughly before adding them to your pot.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you enjoy heat, don’t forget to add chili oil as a garnish. Adjust according to personal preference for a customized experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezing Wonton Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
• Ensure there is enough space in the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Wonton Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Wonton Soup.

What is Wonton Soup?

Wonton Soup is a flavorful Asian soup made with wontons, vegetables, and a savory broth. It’s quick and easy to prepare at home.

Can I make Wonton Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth and omit meat-based wontons for a delicious vegetarian version of Wonton Soup.

How do I make my Wonton Soup richer?

For a richer flavor, consider adding more soy sauce or using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

What types of mushrooms can I use in Wonton Soup?

You can use shiitake, button, or cremini mushrooms; just avoid canned varieties for better texture and flavor.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Wonton Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like snow peas, carrots, or spinach based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Wonton Soup is not only quick to make but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Whether you serve it as a light meal or an appetizer, it offers plenty of room for customization. Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste—your perfect bowl of comfort awaits!