Easy Homemade Wonton Soup Recipe

Wonton soup is a classic Chinese dish that combines delicate, flavor-packed dumplings with a warm, aromatic broth. This easy homemade wonton soup recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comforting, homemade meals. Unlike store-bought versions, making wonton soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and healthier dish.

This recipe features a delicious mix of ground meat, seasonings, and aromatics wrapped in tender wonton wrappers, simmered in a flavorful broth. The process may seem intimidating at first, but with the right steps, you’ll find it surprisingly simple. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this homemade wonton soup is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Wonton Soup Recipe

• Quick & Easy to Make – With step-by-step instructions, even beginners can prepare it effortlessly.
• Customizable Filling – Choose from traditional pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian options.
• Better Than Takeout – Fresh, homemade flavors with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch of wontons in advance and freeze for later use.
• Comforting & Nourishing – A light yet filling soup that’s perfect for cold days or when you need a warm meal.

Ingredients to Make Wonton Soup

A delicious wonton soup starts with fresh, quality ingredients. This recipe includes simple yet flavorful components that come together to create a comforting bowl of soup. Below are the essential ingredients for both the wontons and the broth.

For the Wontons

• Wonton Wrappers – These thin, square sheets of dough hold the filling. You can find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
• Ground Pork (or Chicken) – Traditional wonton filling is made with ground pork, but ground chicken works as a lighter alternative.
• Shrimp (Optional) – Adding finely chopped shrimp enhances the flavor and provides a slightly chewy texture.
• Garlic & Ginger – Fresh garlic and ginger add depth to the filling and enhance the overall taste.
• Soy Sauce – Provides a savory, umami-rich flavor to the wontons.
• Sesame Oil – A touch of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and authentic taste.
• Green Onions – Finely chopped green onions add freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• Egg (Optional) – Helps bind the filling ingredients together, making it easier to wrap.
• Salt & White Pepper – Seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the filling.

For the Broth

• Chicken Broth – The base of the soup, providing rich and savory flavor. Homemade or low-sodium store-bought broth works best.
• Garlic & Ginger – Infuse the broth with warmth and depth.
• Soy Sauce – Adds a salty and umami-rich taste.
• Bok Choy or Spinach – A nutritious green that complements the soup beautifully.
• Mushrooms (Optional) – Shiitake or button mushrooms add an extra umami boost.

Steps to Make Wonton Soup

Making wonton soup is easier than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a perfectly balanced bowl of soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Filling

The filling is the heart of a great wonton, so it’s essential to mix it well and balance the flavors properly.

1. Choose Your Protein: Traditional wontons are made with ground pork, but you can also use ground chicken or a mixture of both. For extra flavor and texture, you can finely chop shrimp and add it to the filling.
2. Add Aromatics: Mince fresh garlic and grate ginger before adding them to the meat mixture. These ingredients enhance the savory depth of the wontons.
3. Seasoning the Filling: Add soy sauce for saltiness and umami, a dash of sesame oil for a nutty aroma, and a sprinkle of salt and white pepper to bring all the flavors together. If you prefer a slightly richer filling, you can also add a beaten egg to help bind the ingredients.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until the filling is well combined. The texture should be sticky and slightly firm. For best results, let the filling rest in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Assemble the Wontons

Once the filling is ready, it’s time to wrap the wontons. The key is to create a good seal so they don’t open up while cooking.

1. Prepare Your Wrappers: Lay the wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface. If they feel dry, lightly cover them with a damp towel to prevent them from cracking.
2. Fill the Wontons: Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Avoid overfilling, as too much filling can cause the wontons to burst while cooking.
3. Moisten the Edges: Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. This helps seal the wonton.
4. Fold the Wonton:
   • For a basic triangle shape, fold the wrapper diagonally to create a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
   • For the classic wonton shape, bring the two bottom corners of the triangle together and pinch them to secure.
5. Repeat the Process: Continue until all wontons are wrapped. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, making sure they do not touch each other to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

A rich and flavorful broth is what makes wonton soup so comforting.

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth: Pour in about 6 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. If you want a more complex flavor, you can mix in a splash of soy sauce or add a piece of dried seaweed.
3. Enhance the Broth: Add sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button) and chopped leafy greens such as bok choy or spinach. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Taste and Adjust: Add more salt, white pepper, or soy sauce as needed for a well-balanced taste.

Step 4: Cook the Wontons

Cooking the wontons separately before adding them to the soup ensures they don’t overcook or break apart.

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Add the Wontons: Drop them in gently, making sure they do not stick together. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Watch for Doneness: Wontons are fully cooked when they float to the surface (this usually takes about 3–5 minutes). If unsure, cut one open to check if the meat inside is fully cooked.
4. Remove from Water: Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the cooked wontons into the broth.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Now it’s time to bring everything together and serve the soup!

1. Let the Wontons Absorb the Flavors: Allow the cooked wontons to simmer in the broth for 1–2 minutes to soak up the delicious flavors.
2. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the wontons and broth evenly into serving bowls. Make sure each bowl gets a generous amount of both.
3. Add Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions, a drizzle of sesame oil, and optional toppings like chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
4. Serve Hot: Enjoy the soup immediately while it’s warm and flavorful.

Can We Make Wonton Soup in Advance?

Yes! Wonton soup can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient dish for busy days. Here’s how you can prepare it in advance:

1. Make and Store the Wontons

• Refrigerate: If you plan to use them within 24 hours, place the assembled wontons in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
• Freeze for Later Use: To store for a longer period, arrange wontons in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

2. Prepare the Broth in Advance

• Make the broth ahead of time and store it separately from the wontons.
• Let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Assembling When Ready to Serve

• If using refrigerated wontons: Cook them directly in boiling water for 3–5 minutes, then add them to the heated broth.
• If using frozen wontons: No need to thaw! Just drop them into boiling water and cook for 5–7 minutes until they float.
• Heat the pre-made broth, add freshly chopped green onions or greens, and serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Wonton Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions enhance the authentic flavor of the broth and wonton filling.

Don’t Overfill the Wontons: Too much filling can cause them to break open while cooking. Stick to 1 teaspoon per wrapper.

Seal Wontons Properly: Press the edges firmly and use a bit of water to create a strong seal, preventing them from opening while boiling.

Cook Wontons Separately: Boiling wontons in a separate pot of water ensures the broth remains clear and free of excess starch.

Simmer, Don’t Boil the Broth: Keeping the broth at a gentle simmer prevents it from becoming cloudy.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Add a bit of soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili oil based on your flavor preference.

For a Creamier Broth: Add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to slightly thicken the broth.

Want a Spicy Kick? A spoonful of chili oil or sriracha gives the soup a nice heat.

Serving Suggestions

Wonton soup is a delicious meal on its own, but here are some ways to serve it:

• As a Starter: Pair it with Chinese dishes like fried rice, chow mein, or stir-fried vegetables.
• With a Side of Dumplings: Serve alongside pan-fried potstickers or steamed dumplings for a dim sum-style meal.
• With Extra Greens: Add more bok choy, napa cabbage, or spinach for a healthier and more filling version.
• For a Noodle Soup Variation: Add cooked egg noodles or rice noodles to turn it into a heartier dish.
• Dipping Sauce on the Side: Serve with soy sauce, chili oil, or black vinegar for an extra flavor boost.

Yummiest Variations of Wonton Soup You Can Try

Wonton soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and regional flavors. Below are some of the most popular variations of wonton soup, ranging from traditional recipes to unique modern twists.

1. Classic Cantonese Wonton Soup

This is the most well-known version, featuring a light yet flavorful chicken or pork broth with delicate pork and shrimp-filled wontons. The soup is often garnished with green onions, bok choy, and sesame oil for added depth.

Ingredients:

• Pork and shrimp wontons
• Chicken or pork broth
• Soy sauce, ginger, garlic
• Bok choy, green onions
• Sesame oil

Why It’s Popular:

This variation is widely served in Chinese restaurants worldwide. It has a clear, aromatic broth and a perfect balance of meat and seafood flavors.

2. Spicy Sichuan Wonton Soup (Hong You Chao Shou)

For those who love spice, the Sichuan-style wonton soup features red chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and black vinegar, giving it a bold, fiery kick. The broth is tangy, spicy, and packed with numbing heat.

Ingredients:

• Pork or chicken wontons
• A spicy broth with chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns
• Soy sauce, black vinegar, and garlic
• Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish

Why It’s Popular:

This variation is a favorite for spice lovers and those who enjoy bold, punchy flavors. The combination of heat and tanginess makes it incredibly satisfying.

3. Wonton Noodle Soup (Wonton Mein)

A heartier version of classic wonton soup, this dish includes egg noodles in the broth, making it a more filling meal. It is popular in Hong Kong and Chinese noodle houses.

Ingredients:

• Pork and shrimp wontons
• Egg noodles
• Chicken or pork broth
• Bok choy or Chinese greens
• Soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions

Why It’s Popular:

Adding noodles transforms wonton soup into a full meal, offering a satisfying balance of soft wontons, chewy noodles, and a rich broth.

4. Vegetarian Wonton Soup

For a meat-free alternative, wontons are filled with a mix of finely chopped vegetables and tofu. The broth is typically made from vegetable stock with mushrooms, ginger, and soy sauce for flavor.

Ingredients:

• Wontons stuffed with mushrooms, tofu, carrots, and cabbage
• Vegetable broth with garlic and ginger
• Bok choy or napa cabbage
• Soy sauce and sesame oil

Why It’s Popular:

This is a healthy, plant-based option that still delivers rich flavors without meat. It’s great for vegetarians and those looking for a lighter meal.

5. Miso Wonton Soup

A fusion of Japanese and Chinese cuisine, this variation combines Japanese miso broth with Chinese-style wontons, creating a unique umami-rich soup.

Ingredients:

• Wontons (pork, shrimp, or tofu filling)
• Miso paste and dashi broth
• Seaweed, mushrooms, and tofu
• Green onions and sesame oil

Why It’s Popular:

This version blends the deep umami flavors of miso with the comforting texture of wontons, making it a warm, nourishing meal.

6. Thai-Inspired Wonton Soup

For a Thai twist, the broth includes lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, and Thai chilies, adding a fragrant and slightly spicy flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• Wontons with pork, shrimp, or chicken filling
• Coconut milk and chicken broth
• Lemongrass, lime leaves, Thai chilies
• Fish sauce, lime juice, and cilantro

Why It’s Popular:

This soup is perfect for those who love rich, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors. The Thai herbs give it a refreshing, citrusy aroma.

7. Korean Mandu Wonton Soup

Inspired by Korean mandu dumplings, this version includes a hearty broth made with beef or anchovy stock and often features glass noodles inside the dumplings.

Ingredients:

• Mandu (Korean dumplings) with pork, beef, or tofu filling
• Beef or anchovy broth
• Garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil
• Napa cabbage and green onions

Why It’s Popular:

Korean wonton soup is rich and satisfying, perfect for cold days or as a hearty meal.

8. Gluten-Free Wonton Soup

For those avoiding gluten, this variation uses rice paper wrappers instead of traditional wonton wrappers and includes a gluten-free broth made without soy sauce or wheat-based ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Rice paper-wrapped wontons with a vegetable or meat filling
• Gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth
• Garlic, ginger, and coconut aminos (soy sauce alternative)
• Bok choy and green onions

Why It’s Popular:

This is a great option for people with gluten sensitivities who still want to enjoy a comforting bowl of wonton soup.

9. Bone Broth Wonton Soup

This variation uses homemade bone broth, which is simmered for hours to extract nutrients and flavor. It’s a healthier, collagen-rich alternative to traditional broth.

Ingredients:

• Wontons with pork or chicken filling
• Slow-cooked bone broth (chicken, beef, or pork bones)
• Garlic, ginger, and soy sauce
• Bok choy and mushrooms

Why It’s Popular:

Bone broth is packed with nutrients, collagen, and rich flavor, making this soup both delicious and beneficial for gut health.

10. Cold Wonton Soup (Summer Version)

For a refreshing twist, the wontons are boiled, then chilled, and served in a cold soy-based broth with cucumbers, sesame seeds, and chili oil.

Ingredients:

• Chilled pork or shrimp wontons
• Cold soy sauce and vinegar-based broth
• Cucumber slices and sesame seeds
• Chili oil and green onions

Why It’s Popular:

This is a great summer alternative when you want a lighter, refreshing meal without a hot broth.

Storage Instructions For Wonton Soup

Proper storage ensures that your wonton soup stays fresh and delicious for later. Here’s how to store both cooked and uncooked wontons, as well as the broth, the right way.

Storing Cooked Wonton Soup

If you have leftover wonton soup, it’s best to store the broth and wontons separately to keep the wontons from becoming too soft.

• Refrigerator: Let the broth cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. Wontons should be stored separately in a container and eaten within 2 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the broth in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wontons should be frozen separately on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.

Storing Uncooked Wontons

If you have extra wontons, you can save them for later:

• Refrigerator: Store fresh, uncooked wontons in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Place the wontons on a tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they will last for up to 3 months.

For the best results, always store the broth and wontons separately.

Can We Reheat Wonton Soup?

Yes! You can easily reheat wonton soup, but the method you use makes a big difference in preserving its taste and texture.

Reheating from the Refrigerator

Pour the broth into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat until it simmers. Add the wontons and let them heat for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Reheating from the Freezer

If frozen, thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight. Heat the broth in a pot until it simmers.

In a separate pot, boil water and cook the frozen wontons for 5-7 minutes, then add them to the hot broth.

Microwave Reheating (Not Recommended)

Microwaving can make the wontons too soft and cause them to break apart. However, if needed:

Heat the broth in 30-second intervals, stirring between rounds. Add the wontons and microwave for 1-2 minutes until fully warmed.

For the best texture, always store and reheat the broth and wontons separately whenever possible.

Recipe FAQs

Here are some common questions and answers about making homemade wonton soup.

1. Can I use store-bought wonton wrappers?

Yes! Store-bought wonton wrappers are a great time-saving option and work just as well as homemade ones. Look for them in the refrigerated or frozen section of your grocery store.

2. What type of meat can I use for the filling?

Traditional wonton soup uses ground pork, but you can also use chicken, shrimp, or a mix of both. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute with tofu and finely chopped vegetables.

3. How do I keep wontons from sticking together?

Place assembled wontons on a parchment-lined tray with space between them. If storing, lightly dust them with cornstarch to prevent sticking.

4. Can I freeze wontons before cooking?

Yes! Arrange uncooked wontons on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add 1-2 extra minutes to the boiling time.

5. Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to store the wontons and broth separately to keep the wontons from becoming too soft. Assemble and freeze the wontons in advance, then prepare the broth fresh when ready to serve.

6. What vegetables can I add to the soup?

You can add bok choy, mushrooms, napa cabbage, carrots, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

7. How can I make the broth more flavorful?

For a richer broth, simmer the chicken stock with garlic, ginger, and scallions for an extra 10–15 minutes. A splash of soy sauce or a few drops of sesame oil can also enhance the taste.

8. What should I do if my wontons break apart while cooking?

This usually happens if they are overfilled or not sealed properly. Make sure to press the edges firmly when folding and avoid overstuffing them. Also, handle them gently while boiling.

Conclusion

Homemade wonton soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you prepare it fresh, store it for later, or customize it with different flavors, this soup is a warm and satisfying meal for any occasion. With the right ingredients, a few simple techniques, and these expert tips, you’ll be able to enjoy restaurant-quality wonton soup from the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy your cooking, and happy eating! 🥢🍜