If you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup that’s both hearty and light, this Chinese vegetarian wonton soup recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for any season, this soup combines delicate wontons filled with a flavorful mix of vegetables and tofu, swimming in a fragrant homemade broth.
Not only is it satisfying and packed with umami, but it’s also a wholesome and healthy option for vegetarians and those looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing taste.
Wonton soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, traditionally made with pork or shrimp. However, this vegetarian version uses fresh ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, and tofu to create a delicious filling that everyone will love.
The broth is simmered with ginger, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce for depth and warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a soul-soothing meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese vegetarian wonton soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s both nourishing and easy to make. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
- Healthy and light: Made with fresh vegetables and tofu, it’s low in calories but rich in flavor.
- Customizable filling: You can easily swap or add your favorite veggies and seasonings.
- Simple homemade broth: No need for store-bought soups; the broth is aromatic and naturally flavorful.
- Great for meal prep: Make the wontons ahead of time and freeze for quick meals.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Perfect for those avoiding meat but craving traditional Chinese comfort food.
Ingredients
- Wontons:
- 1 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
- 1 cup finely shredded napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 pack wonton wrappers (about 30 wrappers)
- Broth:
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy, roughly chopped
- Optional: sliced mushrooms or carrots for extra texture
- For garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Chili oil or flakes (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large pot or Dutch oven for broth
- Small bowl with water (for sealing wontons)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Ladle for serving
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shiitake mushrooms, shredded napa cabbage, crumbled tofu, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the wontons: Lay out a few wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place approximately 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper over to form a triangle, pressing the edges tightly to seal. If desired, bring the two opposite corners of the triangle together and pinch to create the classic wonton shape.
- Prepare the broth: In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer. Add the smashed garlic cloves, sliced ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cook the wontons: Gently drop the wontons into the simmering broth. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the wontons float to the surface and the wrappers are tender but not falling apart.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the baby spinach or bok choy and any additional vegetables you like. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Serve: Ladle the wonton soup into bowls, making sure to include several wontons and some broth. Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Tips & Variations
“To prevent wontons from sticking together before cooking, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly dusted with cornstarch or flour.”
- Make ahead: You can prepare and freeze wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
- Filling variations: Try adding grated carrot, water chestnuts, or chopped shiitake stems for extra crunch. You can also swap tofu for finely chopped tempeh or cooked lentils for a different texture.
- Broth enhancement: Add dried shiitake mushrooms or kombu (kelp) to the broth for a deeper umami flavor. Remove before serving.
- Spicy twist: Add a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to the broth or serve with chili oil on the side.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or substitute with rice paper wrappers.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bowl) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 8 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian wonton soup pairs beautifully with a variety of simple sides to round out your meal. Consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or a light vegetable stir-fry.
For a refreshing contrast, a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds complements the warm broth perfectly.
To keep the meal light, add some steamed or sautéed greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli on the side. If you want to indulge a bit, crispy spring rolls or vegetarian dumplings make excellent appetizers that echo the flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
This Chinese vegetarian wonton soup recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy traditional flavors without any meat. It’s nourishing, easy to prepare, and adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand.
The delicate wontons combined with a fragrant broth make for a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend lunches.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this soup promises smiles and satisfied appetites. For more delicious and wholesome recipes, be sure to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a cozy vegetable side, or try the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe if you want a comforting protein dish.
For a tangy kick, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is a perfect complement to any meal.
Enjoy this wholesome bowl of Chinese vegetarian wonton soup anytime you crave something warm, tasty, and nourishing!
📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Vegetarian Wonton Soup
Description: A comforting and flavorful soup featuring delicate vegetarian wontons in a savory broth. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 1 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded napa cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt to taste
- White pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine mushrooms, cabbage, carrot, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
- Moisten edges with water and fold to seal the wontons.
- Bring vegetable broth, ginger, salt, and white pepper to a boil in a pot.
- Add wontons to the boiling broth and cook for 5-7 minutes until they float.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 30 g
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