Wonton soup is a beloved dish in many parts of the world, particularly in Chinese cuisine, where its origins date back centuries. It’s a comforting, hearty, yet delicate soup featuring small dumplings filled with savory fillings, usually meat or seafood, which are then simmered in a flavorful broth. While the traditional wonton filling is often a mix of pork and shrimp, it can vary widely depending on the region, chef, or personal preference.
In this recipe, we’re combining the sweet, briny shrimp with the savory richness of ground pork, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The wontons are paired with a soothing, fragrant broth that accentuates the freshness of the dumplings while adding layers of depth. This dish is a great balance between comfort and elegance, ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Pork And Shrimp Wonton Soup Recipe
This particular recipe puts together both the comforting nature of a classic wonton soup and the bold flavors of its filling-pork and shrimp-creating a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice, this recipe is approachable, with clear instructions and tips to ensure success.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a rundown of everything you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life. It’s all about balance-fresh ingredients for the wontons and a flavorful, aromatic broth to pull it all together.
For The Wontons
- 8 oz ground pork – The pork provides the perfect base for the wonton filling, with enough fat to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- 8 oz shrimp – Shrimp adds sweetness and a slight brininess that contrasts wonderfully with the pork.
- 2 tablespoons ginger – Fresh ginger brings a peppery, slightly zesty taste that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons green onion (scallions) – Chopped finely, green onions add a mild oniony flavor and a bit of crunch.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds a salty, umami richness that enhances the meat and seafood flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – For a nutty, slightly toasted flavor, sesame oil is essential in wonton fillings.
- 1 egg – Helps bind the filling ingredients together and adds a slight richness.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – This helps the filling hold together and gives it a smooth texture.
- Wonton wrappers – Available at most grocery stores, these thin squares of dough are the perfect vessel for your filling.
For The Soup Broth
- 6 cups chicken broth – A rich chicken broth forms the base of the soup. It’s comforting but not too heavy.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Enhances the broth with a deeper savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the broth.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – A dash of sesame oil adds a touch of earthiness and depth to the broth.
- 2 slices of ginger – Just a couple of thin slices, as ginger is a fragrant and slightly spicy addition.
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed – Garlic helps infuse the broth with a mild aromatic flavor that pairs well with the rest of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper – Gives a mild heat and a clean, sharp peppery note.
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions over the finished soup for a touch of color and crunch.
- Cilantro leaves – Optional, but a few leaves can add freshness to balance the richness of the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the good stuff-preparing this delightful bowl of wonton soup. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
For The Wontons
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Prepare The Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, shrimp (which should be chopped into small pieces), ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, and cornstarch.
- Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined and the filling feels slightly sticky and cohesive.
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Assemble The Wontons
- Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful (about a teaspoon) of the filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper to moisten them.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle and press the edges tightly to seal. You can also fold the edges into a more traditional ’boat’ shape by folding in the corners. Make sure there’s no air trapped inside.
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Cook The Wontons
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the wontons into the boiling water. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Once the wontons float to the surface (about 3-5 minutes), let them cook for another 2-3 minutes before removing them with a slotted spoon.
For The Soup
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Prepare The Broth
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger slices, garlic, and white pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to infuse for about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a stronger broth, you can simmer it longer.
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Assemble The Soup
- Once the broth is ready, remove the ginger and garlic.
- Gently drop the cooked wontons into the broth, letting them heat through for about 2 minutes.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup and wontons into bowls. Top with freshly chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe has a specific role that contributes to the overall flavor and texture. Understanding these ingredients can give you a deeper appreciation for the dish:
- Pork: The fat content in ground pork provides moisture and richness, keeping the filling tender and juicy. It also carries flavors well, making it the perfect base for the wonton filling.
- Shrimp: Shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor that balances the savory pork. Its slightly firm texture contrasts nicely with the soft, smooth filling, offering a delightful bite.
- Ginger: A key ingredient in Chinese cooking, ginger provides a zesty and slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the pork and shrimp. It also has medicinal properties, often used for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Sesame Oil: This oil has a distinctive nutty flavor that adds depth to the broth and filling. It’s essential for the aromatic touch it provides, making the dish feel fuller and more complex.
- Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami, boosting the savory aspect of both the filling and the broth.
Expert Tips
- Sealing the Wontons: Make sure the wontons are sealed tightly to avoid them opening up while cooking. You don’t want the filling spilling out into the broth!
- Don’t Overstuff the Wontons: You want to leave a little space around the edges to ensure that the filling stays inside while the wonton cooks.
- Homemade Broth: If you have the time and inclination, making your own broth (using chicken bones, vegetables, and aromatics) will elevate the flavor. Store-bought broth is fine, but homemade adds a depth of flavor that’s unbeatable.
- Don’t Overcook the Wontons: While they float to the top in boiling water, make sure you give them another 2-3 minutes to fully cook. Overcooking can make them soggy and too soft.
Recipe Variations
While this pork and shrimp wonton soup recipe is amazing on its own, here are a few variations to consider if you want to switch things up:
- Vegetarian Wontons: Replace the pork and shrimp with a filling of finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Broth: Add chili paste or fresh chilies to the broth for a bit of heat, or use Sriracha to give it a spicy kick.
- Alternative Proteins: You can swap out the pork and shrimp for other proteins like ground chicken, beef, or even fish, though pork and shrimp remain the most traditional.
- Noodles: For a heartier soup, you can add cooked noodles like egg noodles or rice noodles to the broth, making it a complete meal.
Final Words
Pork and shrimp wonton soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s packed with layers of taste. From the tender wontons to the fragrant broth, every spoonful is a delightful experience. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a dish that’s sure to impress.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Pork And Shrimp Wonton Soup?
To make pork and shrimp wonton soup, you will need ground pork, shrimp (preferably raw and peeled), wonton wrappers, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, cilantro, chicken broth, and optional seasonings like white pepper and Chinese five-spice powder.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before chopping and adding them to the filling mixture. Avoid using cooked shrimp, as it may alter the texture of the wontons.
What Type Of Broth Is Best For Wonton Soup?
A rich, clear chicken broth is typically preferred for wonton soup as it complements the flavor of the pork and shrimp. You can also use homemade broth for a more authentic taste or low-sodium store-bought chicken broth if you want to control the salt content.
How Do I Fold Wontons Properly?
To fold the wontons, place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten the edges with a little water, fold the wrapper into a triangle, and then bring the two corners together to form a pouch shape. Press the edges firmly to seal the wonton.
Can I Make Wontons Ahead Of Time And Freeze Them?
Yes, you can make wontons ahead of time. Lay the uncooked wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container. They can be boiled straight from the freezer when you’re ready to cook them.
How Long Should I Cook Wontons In The Soup?
Wontons typically cook within 4-6 minutes after being added to the boiling soup. When they float to the surface and the wrappers become tender, they are ready to be served.
Can I Add Vegetables To The Wonton Soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, or napa cabbage to the soup for extra flavor and texture. Add them to the soup about 2-3 minutes before the wontons are done cooking to ensure they are tender but not overcooked.
What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Wonton Wrappers?
If you don’t have wonton wrappers, you can use dumpling wrappers or even egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares. Alternatively, you can try making your own dough, though this will require more time and effort.
Can I Make The Soup Spicier?
Yes, you can make the soup spicier by adding chili oil, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh sliced chili peppers to the broth. Adjust the spice level to your taste, and be sure to balance the heat with other seasonings like soy sauce.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftovers Of Pork And Shrimp Wonton Soup?
Store any leftover wonton soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For best results, store the soup and wontons separately if possible, as the wontons may absorb too much broth and lose their texture upon reheating.