Easy Homemade Wonton Soup: A Quick & Comforting Weeknight Meal
Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a classic with this incredibly easy wonton soup recipe. Perfectly balancing a hearty fill with a light, comforting feel, this soup is built on a savory chicken broth base. It’s generously loaded with succulent wontons, vibrant bok choy, savory shiitake mushrooms, and a rich infusion of umami flavor that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is your go-to solution for a satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a soothing lunch.
Why This Easy Wonton Soup Recipe is a Must-Try
While crafting homemade wontons from scratch is a culinary achievement, we understand that time is often a luxury. That’s why this recipe shines by utilizing high-quality, store-bought frozen wontons. This simple substitution dramatically cuts down on preparation time, transforming what could be an elaborate dish into an effortless weeknight wonder. You can have a steaming bowl of delicious wonton soup on your table in approximately 40 minutes, completely stress-free, without worrying about your delicate homemade dumplings falling apart during cooking.
Our rendition of this beloved Asian soup is a symphony of flavors, achieved through a carefully selected blend of aromatics and fresh ingredients. We infuse the broth with pungent garlic and zesty fresh ginger root, complemented by the savory depth of soy sauce and the nutty richness of sesame oil. These ingredients create a robust flavor profile that perfectly envelops the tender wontons, tender shiitake mushrooms, and crisp bok choy. This makes for a deeply comforting meal on a chilly evening, yet it remains light enough to enjoy as a refreshing lunch. It’s a versatile dish that offers the best of both worlds, often leaving me torn between this and a classic egg drop soup – I truly adore them both for their unique comforts.
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about delivering authentic taste and heartwarming satisfaction with minimal fuss. By focusing on quality ingredients and streamlining the process, we’ve created a wonton soup that rivals your favorite takeout, offering a healthier and equally delicious alternative right from your own kitchen. It’s truly comfort food at its finest, ready whenever you need a quick and flavorful pick-me-up.
Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Wonton Soup
To whip up this delightful wonton soup, you’ll need a handful of accessible ingredients that come together to create an incredible depth of flavor. All precise measurements, a complete list of ingredients, and detailed instructions can be found in the printable recipe card at the conclusion of this article. Gather your components and get ready to create a truly memorable meal.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients for our easy wonton soup and how you can adapt them to your preferences or what you have on hand:
WONTONS – The star of the show! Feel free to use any variety of frozen wontons or potstickers you prefer. They come in various fillings like pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetable. For soup, we find that smaller wontons are ideal as they cook quickly and are easier to enjoy by the spoonful. We specifically love the mini wontons (chicken and vegetable varieties) often found at local grocery stores for their perfect bite-sized form. Using frozen wontons is key to this recipe’s incredible speed and convenience, making homemade-quality soup a reality on even the busiest nights.
GINGER – Fresh ginger root is highly recommended for its bright, pungent, and slightly spicy notes that are absolutely essential to the authentic flavor profile of this Asian soup. While ground ginger can be used in a pinch, be aware that it is significantly more potent. If substituting, use a much smaller amount (typically about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of fresh grated ginger) and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the broth.
BOK CHOY – This crisp, leafy green vegetable adds a wonderful texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor to the soup. Both baby bok choy and regular bok choy work well; the main difference is their size. Baby bok choy is fantastic for this recipe because its smaller size often means you can add the leaves whole or with minimal chopping, saving you time. If using regular bok choy, simply cut the leaves from the tougher white stalks and chop them into manageable pieces so they fit easily into your pot and spoon. Bok choy is also packed with vitamins and minerals, adding a healthy boost to your meal.
BROTH – The foundation of any great soup! For most of our recipes, including this wonton soup, we opt for a concentrated bouillon base instead of pre-packaged broth or stock. This choice offers several benefits: it’s incredibly convenient, takes up minimal pantry space, delivers a far more intense and robust flavor, and can be easily reconstituted with water to your desired strength. Although “broth” is listed in the recipe, we typically use chicken base and water. You can absolutely use pre-made chicken broth or stock. A crucial note about chicken base: it can be saltier than store-bought stock depending on the brand and how much you use, so always taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. For a vegetarian version of this wonton soup, simply substitute chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth.
GARLIC – Fresh minced garlic brings a foundational aromatic layer that complements the ginger perfectly, creating a classic savory base for the broth.
GREEN ONIONS – These provide a mild, slightly peppery onion flavor and a beautiful splash of color. They are used both in the soup and as a fresh garnish, adding a touch of brightness.
SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS – Shiitake mushrooms contribute an earthy, meaty texture and a distinct umami depth that elevates the soup’s flavor. If fresh shiitake are unavailable, dried shiitake can be rehydrated or other fresh mushrooms like cremini (baby bellas) can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
SOY SAUCE – Essential for adding a salty, savory, and umami-rich kick. We recommend using a good quality regular or low-sodium soy sauce. Adjust the amount to your taste preference and the saltiness of your broth.
SESAME OIL – A finishing oil that adds a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor, contributing significantly to the authentic Asian essence of the soup. Always add sesame oil at the end to preserve its delicate flavor.
How to Make This Flavorful Wonton Soup
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious wonton soup. For a complete, printable version of this recipe, including exact measurements and a comprehensive list of instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Begin by adding your chicken broth or reconstituted chicken base and water to a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Place the pot over medium-high heat, allowing the liquid to gradually warm.
- Next, incorporate the minced garlic and sliced fresh ginger root into the broth. Stir these powerful aromatics well to distribute their flavors throughout the liquid.
- Cover the pot and bring the broth mixture to a full rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a vigorous simmer and cook for 5 minutes. This step allows the garlic and ginger to fully release their fragrant essence, infusing the broth with deep, complex flavors.
- Carefully remove the cover from the pot. Add the sliced green onions and baby bok choy to the simmering broth. Stir everything together gently to ensure the vegetables are submerged and begin to cook. Replace the cover and once again bring the soup back to a boil. This quick cooking ensures the bok choy remains slightly crisp, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Once the soup is boiling again, remove the cover and carefully add the frozen wontons to the pot. Stir gently to separate them and prevent sticking. Cover the pot once more and bring the soup back to a boil. Cook according to the package directions for your specific wontons, usually 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender and float to the surface.
- Finally, remove the cover. Stir in the sliced shiitake mushrooms, soy sauce, and the fragrant sesame oil. Allow the soup to heat through for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough for the mushrooms to soften slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – you might want a splash more soy sauce or a pinch of salt. Serve your delicious, comforting wonton soup immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Wonton Soup
Once your delicious wonton soup has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. For convenient meal prepping, food prep containers work wonderfully. Store the soup in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for 4-5 days. To reheat, gently warm portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook the wontons.
While you can technically freeze wonton soup, it’s generally best enjoyed fresh or simply refrigerated. The primary reason for this recommendation is that the wontons tend to absorb too much liquid and can become mushy or alter in texture once frozen and then thawed. However, if you absolutely wish to freeze a batch, we recommend a smart workaround: prepare the broth and vegetables as directed in the recipe, but *do not* add the wontons at this stage. Allow the broth and vegetable mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or large ziptop bags, freezing them flat to save space. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup base, reheat it on the stovetop, and then add fresh or frozen wontons during the final stages of reheating. This way, you get perfectly textured wontons every time.
Absolutely! This soup is highly customizable. For extra protein, consider adding thinly sliced cooked chicken breast, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even some cubed firm tofu during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. Shrimp is another excellent addition; add it during the last 2-3 minutes of simmering until it turns pink and opaque.
Making this soup vegetarian is easy! Simply substitute chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth. Ensure you also use vegetable-filled wontons, which are widely available in the frozen aisle of most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients, such as bok choy, mushrooms, garlic, and ginger, are already plant-based and contribute wonderfully to a flavorful vegetarian version.
The key is to cook them just until they are tender and float to the surface, typically 3-5 minutes for frozen wontons. Avoid overcooking, as they will continue to soften in the hot broth even after the heat is off. If you’re not serving immediately, you might even consider cooking them separately and adding them to individual bowls just before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Your Wonton Soup
This versatile and hearty wonton soup is perfect on its own, making for a wonderfully satisfying lunch that I personally love to prep and enjoy throughout the week. However, it can just as easily be elevated into a more substantial dinner. Pair it alongside some crisp stir-fried vegetables, a plate of savory beef lo mein, or some delicious sweet and sour chicken for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
If you’re looking to truly impress your guests and elevate the dining experience, serve this comforting soup in elegant white pasta dishes. Complete the authentic presentation by using stylish Asian soup spoons, just like those beautifully showcased in the photos within this post!
More Comforting Soup Recipes to Explore
If you love the warmth and comfort of a good bowl of soup, be sure to check out some of our other popular recipes:
- Hearty Cabbage Soup
- Classic Egg Drop Soup
- Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup
- Creamy Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup
I’m passionate about baking and cooking, and I love sharing my culinary adventures and tested recipes with all of you! To make sure you never miss a new dish, I offer a convenient newsletter that delivers fresh recipes straight to your inbox every time a new one is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes to inspire your next meal!
Easy & Flavorful Wonton Soup
IMPORTANT – Don’t forget to scroll back up! There are often helpful Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips within the main blog post that you may find very useful before you start cooking.
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Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth (or chicken bouillon base reconstituted with water)
- 1 Tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 2 teaspoons sliced fresh ginger root
- ½ cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 baby bok choy (or 1 head regular bok choy, chopped)
- 2 cups frozen wontons (chicken, pork, or vegetable)
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated dried)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Stockpot or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid
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Large mixing bowl (for prep, optional)
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Wooden spoon (or heat-safe spatula)
Before You Begin: Important Tips
- Choosing Wontons: You have a wide array of options when it comes to frozen wontons or potstickers. For a more traditional soup experience, we find that smaller wontons, like the mini chicken and vegetable wontons found at many grocery stores, are ideal.
- Ginger Power: For the most authentic and vibrant flavor, we highly recommend using fresh ginger root. If you must substitute with ground ginger, remember that it’s much more concentrated. Use significantly less (e.g., 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger per tablespoon of fresh) and taste as you go.
- Bok Choy Breakdown: Both baby and regular bok choy are excellent for this soup. Baby bok choy is convenient as its smaller size often means you can add the leaves whole or with minimal cutting. If opting for regular bok choy, simply separate the leaves from the tough base and chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
- Broth Basics: Instead of traditional carton broth, we frequently use a concentrated chicken bouillon base for its intense flavor and space-saving convenience. Our recipe lists “chicken broth,” but feel free to use your preferred chicken stock, bouillon base reconstituted with water, or even a good vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Keep in mind that bouillon bases can be saltier, so adjust your soy sauce addition accordingly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth (or bouillon base mixed with water). Place the pot over medium-high heat.6 cups chicken broth
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Add the minced garlic and sliced ginger root to the broth. Stir thoroughly to combine.1 Tablespoon minced garlic, 2 teaspoons sliced ginger root
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Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue to cook for 5 minutes, allowing the aromatics to infuse the broth.
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Uncover the pot. Stir in the sliced green onions and baby bok choy. Stir again, cover, and bring back to a boil.1/2 cup sliced green onions, 3 baby bok choy
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Remove the cover. Carefully add the frozen wontons to the boiling soup. Cover the pot and allow it to return to a boil. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or according to wonton package directions, until they are tender and float.2 cups frozen wontons
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Uncover the pot. Stir in the sliced shiitake mushrooms, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through and flavors are well combined. Serve immediately and garnish with extra green onions if desired.1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
Additional Expert Tips & Storage
- Proper Storage: Ensure your wonton soup has fully cooled before transferring it to an airtight container or individual food prep containers. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. For reheating, use either a microwave or gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until piping hot.
- Customizing Protein: For a heartier meal, feel free to add cooked shredded chicken, thinly sliced pork, or even some shrimp (add during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking) to your soup alongside the wontons.
- Vegetarian Version: Easily adapt this recipe by using a good quality vegetable broth and opting for vegetable-filled frozen wontons.
- Don’t Overcook Wontons: To prevent wontons from becoming mushy, cook them just until they are tender and float to the surface (usually 3-5 minutes for frozen). If you’re not serving the entire batch immediately, you can even cook wontons separately and add them to individual bowls just before serving.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.