Who doesn’t love a good, hearty soup to warm the soul? Especially when it’s a bowl of P.F. Chang’s famous Wonton Soup, a dish that has been a favorite on their menu for years. Whether you’re craving something savory, comforting, or just want to recreate the magic of dining out at home, this recipe will guide you step-by-step through making your own version of this iconic soup. Perfectly balanced with a delicious broth, plump and tender wontons, and fresh veggies, this soup offers the ideal mix of flavor and texture.
But the best part? It’s easy to prepare, and you get to control the ingredients for a healthier, personalized twist. So let’s dive into the recipe and everything you’ll need to know to make this fantastic dish from scratch!
P.F. Chang Wonton Soup Recipe
This recipe is designed to give you the essence of P.F. Chang’s Wonton Soup right in your own kitchen. It has the perfect blend of savory, umami-rich broth, succulent pork and shrimp wontons, and a beautiful garnish of green onions and sesame oil. The key is all about the balance of ingredients and the right techniques to ensure that each element sings.
Ingredients Needed
To make this mouthwatering soup, here’s everything you’ll need:
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For The Wontons
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or chicken for a lighter version)
- 1/4 pound shrimp (peeled and finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 package of wonton wrappers (available at most grocery stores)
- 1 egg (to seal the wontons)
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For The Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional for a little spice)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (for a tangy kick)
- 1/2 cup baby spinach or bok choy (optional for added veggies)
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For Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- A drizzle of sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Cooking Instructions
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Make The Wontons
- Start by making the wonton filling. In a bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped shrimp, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Put about a teaspoon of the filling in the center. Brush the edges with a bit of beaten egg and fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle, then fold the edges to seal and create a little pouch. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up.
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Prepare The Broth
- In a large pot, heat up the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- If you’re using spinach or bok choy, add it to the broth and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until tender.
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Cook The Wontons
- Carefully drop the prepared wontons into the simmering broth. Be gentle; you don’t want them to tear. Cook the wontons for about 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. This means they’re cooked through.
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Assemble The Soup
- Once the wontons are ready, ladle the broth and wontons into bowls. Add a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra burst of flavor.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Ingredient Insights
When it comes to this wonton soup, the ingredients are simple but pack a punch in terms of flavor. Let’s break down a few key components:
- Wonton Wrappers: The wrappers are thin sheets of dough that help encase the flavorful filling. They’re easily available at most grocery stores in the frozen section, but you can also find them at Asian markets. You can make your own from scratch, but pre-made ones save time and deliver great results.
- Ground Pork and Shrimp: This combination creates a wonderful textural contrast. The ground pork adds richness, while the shrimp lends a subtle sweetness and bounce. It’s the perfect pairing.
- Oyster Sauce: While soy sauce is the go-to for saltiness, oyster sauce brings in a deeper, umami flavor. It’s slightly sweet and helps round out the taste of the filling.
- Sesame Oil: This oil is a cornerstone of Chinese cooking, providing that signature nutty flavor. Just a little goes a long way to make the dish feel luxurious.
- Chicken Broth: The broth is the foundation of this soup. Using a good quality broth-either store-bought or homemade-will enhance the overall flavor profile. If you’re going for a lighter version, opt for vegetable broth.
Expert Tips
- Wonton Wrapping: If you’re a beginner, wrapping wontons can be a bit tricky. The key is to not overstuff the wrappers-about 1 teaspoon of filling is just enough. If you’re having trouble sealing the edges, try pressing the dough with a fork for a better seal.
- Wonton Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pot. If you put too many wontons in at once, they might stick to each other or tear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can freeze the wontons before cooking them. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container for later use. When you’re ready to cook, drop them directly into the simmering broth-no need to thaw.
- Broth Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning of the broth. If you want a saltier flavor, add a little extra soy sauce. For more depth, consider adding a dash of fish sauce or some star anise for an aromatic kick.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Wontons: Substitute the pork and shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and additional veggies like water chestnuts or bamboo shoots. You can use the same seasonings, but don’t forget to check the broth for seasoning balance as vegetable broths can be milder.
- Spicy Wonton Soup: Add some chili paste or fresh chopped chilies to the broth to bring in a spicy, zesty element. For extra heat, you can also sprinkle some chili flakes on top as garnish.
- Ramen-Style Soup: Add a package of cooked ramen noodles to the soup for a heartier meal. This twist is perfect for those who want to stretch the soup into a full meal.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, or napa cabbage to up the vegetable content. These ingredients will soak up the broth and add a refreshing crunch.
Final Words
This P.F. Chang’s Wonton Soup is a great recipe for anyone who loves Asian-inspired dishes and wants to bring that restaurant-quality flavor into their kitchen. The broth is rich and aromatic, the wontons are soft yet chewy, and the garnishes bring that perfect fresh finish. Plus, it’s highly customizable-whether you want to make it spicier, lighter, or packed with more vegetables, the options are endless.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients For PF Chang Wonton Soup?
The main ingredients for PF Chang Wonton Soup include wonton wrappers, ground pork or chicken, shrimp, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, scallions, and napa cabbage.
Can I Make The Wontons In Advance For PF Chang Wonton Soup?
Yes, you can make the wontons in advance. Prepare the wontons and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, just drop them directly into boiling broth.
What Type Of Broth Is Used In PF Chang Wonton Soup?
PF Chang Wonton Soup uses a clear, flavorful chicken broth as its base, often enhanced with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sometimes a touch of ginger for added depth.
Can I Use A Different Protein Instead Of Pork For The Wontons?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even tofu for the pork in the wontons, depending on your dietary preferences.
How Do I Make The Wonton Filling For PF Chang Wonton Soup?
To make the filling, combine ground pork or chicken, finely chopped shrimp, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until well combined, then spoon the mixture onto wonton wrappers.
What Are The Best Alternatives To Napa Cabbage In PF Chang Wonton Soup?
If you can’t find napa cabbage, you can substitute with bok choy, regular cabbage, or even spinach. These greens will provide a similar texture and flavor.
Can PF Chang Wonton Soup Be Made Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by using plant-based protein in place of meat. Tofu or mushrooms are great substitutes for the filling, and vegetable broth can replace chicken broth.
How Long Does It Take To Cook PF Chang Wonton Soup?
The entire process of making PF Chang Wonton Soup takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including preparing the wontons, making the broth, and simmering everything together.
Can I Use Store-bought Wonton Wrappers For PF Chang Wonton Soup?
Yes, store-bought wonton wrappers are commonly used in making PF Chang Wonton Soup. They are convenient and save time compared to making your own wrappers from scratch.
What Are Some Good Garnish Options For PF Chang Wonton Soup?
Good garnish options for PF Chang Wonton Soup include finely chopped scallions, cilantro, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor and a touch of heat.