Cantonese Wonton Noodle Soup
This authentic Cantonese wonton noodle soup offers a delightful combination of succulent pork and shrimp wontons, springy egg noodles, and a rich, aromatic chicken broth. A staple in traditional Cantonese cuisine, this dish delivers warmth and umami in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- Ground pork – finely mixed to create a tender and flavorful wonton filling
- Shrimp – coarsely chopped for a delicate sweetness and added texture
- Wonton wrappers – thin square-shaped egg-based sheets for encasing the filling
- Chicken broth – a high-quality low-sodium base to create a deeply flavorful soup
- Egg noodles – Hong Kong-style wonton noodles known for their firm yet chewy bite
- Shaoxing wine – an aromatic rice wine that enhances the filling’s depth of flavor
- Sesame oil – for a subtle nutty aroma that enriches the broth and filling
- White pepper – a mild heat that complements the overall seasoning
- Salt and sugar – balancing elements that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients
- Cornstarch – ensures the filling binds together for a smooth cohesive texture
- Oil – incorporated into the filling for moisture and tenderness
- Water – used in the filling mixture to maintain a light consistency
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, salt, sugar, sesame oil, white pepper, Shaoxing wine, oil, water, and cornstarch. Using either a food processor or manual mixing, blend the ingredients thoroughly for several minutes until the texture becomes paste-like. Incorporate the chopped shrimp, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Wontons
- Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a teaspoon of filling at the center. Lightly moisten the edges with water to aid in sealing. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly. Bring the two opposite corners together and seal them securely. Repeat the process until all the filling is used, yielding approximately three dozen wontons.
- Prepare the Broth
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth over moderate heat. Adjust seasoning by adding salt to taste, ensuring a well-balanced and flavorful broth.
- Cook the Noodles and Wontons
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the wonton noodles until just al dente, then divide them among six serving bowls. In the same pot, gently boil the wontons for four to five minutes, or until they float to the surface, indicating they are fully cooked. Evenly distribute the wontons into the prepared bowls and ladle the hot broth over them.
- Enhance and Serve
- For added depth of flavor, garnish with a few drops of sesame oil, chopped scallions, and a light sprinkle of white pepper. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring the best taste and texture.