What Is a Wonton?

When ordering from a Chinese restaurant, there are lots to choose from when it comes to making a soup decision. Egg drop, hot and sour, even a bird’s nest soup might cross your mind as possibilities to quell your cravings. However, it’s a wonton soup that gives you the most for your money, as it’s the only one with the titular wonton. A filling, hearty dumpling that provides a satisfying, sumptuous taste that fills you up fast. Wontons on their own are worth talking about, so today we’ll do just that! We’ll explore the world of wonton, and report on everything that makes them so darn great. And trust us, with something as incredible as wonton, that’s tough to narrow down! So let’s get discussing! 

What is a wonton?

Wontons are a lot like dumplings. In fact, a wonton is a type of dumpling. These Chinese bites are typically filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables. The wrappers are thinner than your typical potsticker-style dumpling. And they’re usually folded in a kind of square shape—almost like a tortellini. They can be steamed, cooked in soup, or fried. The Chinese word for wonton is 餛飩 or huntun, which, according to this eGullet thread, translates to “cloud swallow.” 

So, what is a fried wonton?

A fried wonton is a wonton that has been stuffed (usually with ground pork and shrimp) and deep-fried until crispy and brown. They are extremely tasty and it’s impossible to eat just a few of them. 

What are wonton wrappers made of?

Wonton wrappers are usually made with wheat flour, eggs, water, and salt. The dough is mixed together, kneaded, rested, and then rolled out very thin before being cut into squares, ready for filling. 

What is in a wonton?

Wontons are nothing without their fillings, which tend to run in the “meat, seafood, or vegetables” variety, like many dumplings do! We tried finding one with a caramel center, but we turned up empty handed. Maybe someday! A traditional wonton filling usually includes ground pork and shrimp, along with aromatic seasonings like ginger, soy sauce, and sometimes chopped shiitake mushrooms. 

What is wonton soup?

Wonton soup is a traditional Chinese soup made with a thin but flavorful broth (chicken) and wontons. It can be ordered from most Chinese-American restaurants, and really ought to be offered at other varieties of eating establishments, too. May we one day live in a world where I can get an order of wonton soup at Baskin Robbins or Olive Garden.