Homemade Wonton Soup

Ingredients:

For the Wontons:

• 1 package wonton wrappers
• 1/2 pound ground pork (or chicken, shrimp, or a combination)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped water chestnuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or cremini work well)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wontons:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, green onion, and water chestnuts (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
   • Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
   • Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold over to form a triangle or envelope shape, and press to seal.
   • Repeat until all wontons are filled and sealed.
2. Cook the Wontons:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
   • Gently add the wontons and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float and are cooked through.
   • Remove the wontons with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Make the Soup:
   • In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
   • Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
   • Add the mushrooms, soy sauce, and any additional vegetables (spinach, bok choy, peas). Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Gently add the cooked wontons to the soup and heat through.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
   • Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your homemade wonton soup! It’s a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any time of year.