This dish combines crispy, golden wontons filled with a savory pork and cabbage mixture, gently simmered in a fragrant, clear chicken broth. The contrast of textures—the crunch of the wontons with the smooth warmth of the broth—makes every spoonful a comforting delight.
Perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or impressing guests with a homemade take on a beloved restaurant classic, this soup is both approachable and satisfying. Its balanced flavors and simple ingredients make it an ideal recipe to keep in your rotation for quick, nourishing meals.
Full Recipe:
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12 oz ground pork (or chicken)
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1 cup finely shredded Napa cabbage
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2 green onions, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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30 wonton wrappers
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6 cups chicken broth
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
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1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
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2 teaspoons vegetable oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine ground pork, shredded Napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
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Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten edges with water, then fold and press firmly to seal, creating a triangle or pouch shape.
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In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the filled wontons in batches and lightly brown for 1-2 minutes on each side until crisp but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
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Pour chicken broth into the same pot and bring to a gentle boil. Add shredded carrots if using.
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Carefully add the browned wontons back to the broth. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until wontons are cooked through.
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If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until broth thickens.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Charm of PF Chang’s Wonton Soup: A Culinary Icon
PF Chang’s Wonton Soup has long been a favorite comfort food for many, blending the heartiness of traditional Asian flavors with the approachability of a home-cooked meal. This soup perfectly balances delicate textures and rich umami flavors, making it a go-to dish whether you want a light starter or a satisfying main course. The crispy wontons filled with seasoned pork or chicken provide a wonderful contrast to the smooth, fragrant broth, which is typically enriched with fresh aromatics like ginger, garlic, and green onions.
One of the key reasons this soup has such enduring popularity is the harmonious combination of simple, fresh ingredients that create layers of flavor without overwhelming complexity. The broth itself is clear yet deeply savory, often made from quality chicken stock infused with just enough soy sauce and sesame oil to awaken the palate. This soup embodies the principle of “less is more,” allowing each component—the tender wonton filling, the crisp edges of the fried wontons, and the delicate broth—to shine on its own while contributing to a cohesive dish.
Why Make Wonton Soup at Home?
Making PF Chang’s Wonton Soup at home has several advantages over ordering out or relying on packaged versions. Firstly, it gives you full control over the ingredients and flavors, allowing you to adjust seasoning, spice levels, and textures to your liking. You can use fresh, organic produce and quality proteins, ensuring a healthier and more satisfying meal. Plus, homemade wontons have a wonderful texture that is difficult to replicate in store-bought alternatives, especially when lightly pan-fried before simmering.
Preparing this soup yourself can also be a fun and rewarding cooking experience, whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a culinary novice. Folding wontons is a hands-on process that encourages creativity, and it’s a perfect activity to share with family or friends. Furthermore, the soup freezes well, making it a convenient meal prep option—simply prepare the wontons in advance and store them frozen, then simmer in broth when ready to serve.
The Perfect Balance of Textures and Flavors
One of the highlights of this dish is the texture contrast between the crispy wontons and the silky broth. Unlike many wonton soups where the dumplings are boiled and soft, the lightly pan-fried wontons in this recipe add a delightful crunch that elevates every bite. This texture interplay keeps the soup interesting and enjoyable to eat, inviting you to savor each spoonful.
The pork or chicken filling is typically seasoned with aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic, and green onions, which give it a fresh and mildly spicy kick. Napa cabbage adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to the filling, enhancing its complexity without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors. The broth complements the filling perfectly, made with chicken stock, soy sauce, and sesame oil, which adds a nutty, slightly smoky undertone. This combination creates a warming, soothing bowl that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Nutritional Benefits and Customization
Wonton soup can be a surprisingly healthy option, especially when homemade with fresh ingredients. The broth provides hydration and warmth without excessive calories or fat. The lean ground pork or chicken filling delivers a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Napa cabbage and green onions contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting digestion and immune health.
Because the recipe is versatile, it’s easy to customize it according to dietary needs or preferences. For a lower-carb version, you can reduce the number of wontons or use smaller wrappers. Vegetarians can substitute the meat filling with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or other vegetables, while still retaining the rich flavor of the broth. For gluten-sensitive diets, gluten-free wonton wrappers are available and can be used with no loss in taste or texture.
Cultural Significance and Variations
Wonton soup has a deep cultural significance in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese cooking where it is cherished as a comforting, everyday dish as well as a special occasion treat. The wonton itself—a small dumpling filled with meat or seafood—has ancient roots and symbolizes good fortune and prosperity. In many families, making wontons is a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
Across different regions and restaurants, wonton soup can vary slightly in broth style, fillings, and preparation methods. Some prefer a thicker broth or add ingredients like shiitake mushrooms or bamboo shoots. Others might serve the wontons boiled instead of fried. PF Chang’s version stands out by offering a perfect harmony of crispy wontons with a clean, flavorful broth that appeals to a wide audience.
Tips for Making the Best Wonton Soup
Success in making this soup at home depends on a few important tips. First, do not overfill your wontons; a small amount of filling ensures easy folding and even cooking. When folding, seal the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying and simmering.
For the broth, use homemade or high-quality chicken stock for the best depth of flavor. Avoid over-salting, as the soy sauce already adds saltiness. Light pan-frying the wontons just until they’re golden helps retain the texture contrast without making them too greasy or heavy.
Adding fresh green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving can brighten the soup and add an extra layer of aroma. Finally, enjoy your soup immediately while the wontons are still crisp and the broth is hot.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
PF Chang’s Wonton Soup works beautifully as a starter or as a light meal on its own. Pair it with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or sautéed greens for a balanced dinner. It also complements other Asian-inspired dishes such as stir-fried noodles, sesame chicken, or vegetable spring rolls.
If serving at a gathering or dinner party, consider presenting the soup in individual bowls garnished with chopped cilantro, sliced chilies, or a squeeze of fresh lime to add color and a flavor kick. This makes the soup feel more festive and inviting.
Conclusion
PF Chang’s Wonton Soup is a timeless dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bowl. Its combination of crispy, flavorful wontons and aromatic broth makes it an irresistible choice for anyone craving a warm and hearty Asian soup. Making it at home allows you to customize flavors, control ingredients, and enjoy a fresh, healthier version of this restaurant favorite.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply a cozy meal to warm your soul, this wonton soup recipe is a fantastic option. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple techniques, you can recreate the beloved PF Chang’s taste right in your kitchen—bringing that signature savory goodness to your table anytime.