Introduction
Wonton Soup is a timeless comfort dish known for its delicate dumplings, savory filling, and light yet deeply flavorful broth. This homemade version delivers everything you love about classic Chinese restaurant wonton soup, but with fresher ingredients and a richer, cleaner taste. Soft wontons filled with seasoned pork float gently in a fragrant chicken broth, making this dish perfect for cozy evenings, light lunches, or a soothing starter to any meal.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This recipe balances simplicity with authentic flavor. The pork filling is savory with subtle sweetness and warmth from ginger and sesame oil, while the broth remains clean, aromatic, and comforting. Cooking the wontons separately keeps the soup clear and ensures perfectly tender dumplings every time.
Ingredients
For the Wontons
8 ounces ground pork
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 green onions, finely chopped
24 square wonton wrappers (3½ inches each)
For the Soup Broth
6 cups chicken broth
1½ teaspoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2–3 green onions, finely chopped
Equipment You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl of water (for sealing wontons)
Medium saucepan
Large pot for boiling wontons
Slotted spoon or strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, brown sugar, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well combined and slightly sticky. This texture helps the filling stay juicy during cooking.
Step 2: Fill and Shape the Wontons
Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place one heaping teaspoon of filling in the center. Lightly moisten the edges with water. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing firmly to remove any trapped air. Bring the two bottom corners together, wrapping them around your finger, and press to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and allow the finished wontons to rest while preparing the broth.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Broth
In a medium pot over medium heat, add the chicken broth, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to keep warm. Avoid boiling to preserve the clean flavor of the broth.
Step 4: Cook the Wontons
Bring a large pot of water (about 4 quarts) to a rolling boil. Carefully add the wontons in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the wontons float and the filling is fully cooked. Remove them with a slotted spoon or strain them gently.
Step 5: Assemble the Soup
Transfer the cooked wontons directly into the warm broth. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully. Serve immediately while hot.
Flavor and Texture
The wontons are soft and silky with a juicy, savory pork center, while the broth is light, aromatic, and comforting. Every spoonful feels warm, balanced, and deeply satisfying without being heavy.
Tips for Best Results
Do not overfill the wontons to prevent bursting
Seal the wrappers tightly to keep the filling inside
Cook wontons separately to keep the broth clear
Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor
Variations
Add shrimp to the pork filling for extra richness
Use ground chicken instead of pork for a lighter version
Add bok choy or spinach to the broth for more greens
Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for gentle heat
Storage and Reheating
Store cooked wontons and broth separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat the broth gently and add wontons just before serving
Uncooked wontons can be frozen for up to 2 months and cooked directly from frozen
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make wontons ahead of time?
Yes, uncooked wontons can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage.
Why cook wontons separately from the soup?
Cooking them separately prevents excess starch from clouding the broth and keeps the soup clear and clean-tasting.
Can I use store-bought broth?
Absolutely. Choose a good-quality low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning.
Conclusion
This homemade Wonton Soup is a perfect balance of comfort, tradition, and simplicity. With tender dumplings, a flavorful pork filling, and a soothing broth, it’s a dish that feels both nourishing and special. Whether served as a starter or enjoyed as a light meal, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction with every bowl. Once you try it homemade, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.