My family loves wonton soup with tender dumplings simmered in a light and delicious broth. It’s one of the most comforting Chinese soups out there. Luckily, it’s easy to fold those bonnet-shaped wontons at home when I make fresh Wonton Soup.
Let me show you how to wrap a wonton with my step-by-step tutorial so you can enjoy homemade dumplings anytime! Using prepared and packaged wonton wrappers is the easiest way to make them at home. You can purchase these square wrappers in most Asian grocery stores in the refrigerated section.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- wonton filling — I use the filling recipe from my Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup
- wonton wrappers — get the square wonton skins, not the round gyoza wrappers
- water — for sealing the wrappers
How to Wrap a Wonton
- Add the filling to the center of the wrapper. Use your index finger to moisten the edges of the wrapper with water.
- Fold in half the square wonton wrapper to make a rectangle, then press out and air bubbles and seal. Next, fold the sides inward so they overlap. Moisten the corner of the wrapper where they meet with water.
- Pinch to close and seal. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with plastic while you fold the rest. Use in your favorite recipe, like my Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup.
How to Freeze Wontons for Later
You can wrap a big batch of wontons and freeze the uncooked dumplings to use anytime you get the craving! Here’s how:
- Place the folded wontons on a tray lined with parchment paper. Place in a single layer and so they don’t touch. Cover with plastic wrap.
- Flash freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 1-2 months.
- To enjoy the wontons, cook directly from frozen in simmering soup for 12 minutes. No need to defrost!
Creative Ideas to Enjoy Wontons
Wontons are a versatile, nutritious food that you can serve in creative ways!
- Deep-Fried — Deep-frying these dumplings is a great way to make a crunchy appetizer or snack. They always disappear when I serve them at dinner parties or family get-togethers!
- Pan-Fried — Similar to Japanese potstickers called gyoza, pan-frying wontons works great to serve as a snack, side dish, or main dish. They’re delicious dipped in soy sauce or gyoza dipping sauce!
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How to Wrap Wontons
Materials
- wonton filling (I use this Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup recipe)
- wonton wrappers
- water
Instructions
- Place a wonton wrapper on your hand. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Start with a small amount so it’s easier to work with. Use your finger to moisten the edges of the wrapper with water.
- When the edges have been moistened, fold the wrapper in half to create a rectangular shape, pressing any air that might be trapped around the filling. Fold the sides inward so that they overlap.
- Wet the portion where the sides meet. Pinch to close and seal.
- Here is the cute little wonton! Place the finished wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic to keep them moist as you continue with the remaining fillings and wrappers.
- Continue with the wonton recipe!
To Store
- To freeze the wontons, flash freeze for 1 hour (place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet covered with plastic wrap) and transfer them to a freezer bag. Do not defrost and cook in a simmering soup for 12 minutes.
What to Do With Leftovers…
- Leftover filling: Make mini meatballs or patties and cook them in a frying pan. Once they are pan-fried, you can pack them in an airtight container and store in the freezer for later use.
- Leftover wrappers: Wrap a small piece of cheese and pan fry or deep fry cheese wontons. They are kids’ favorite!
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @justonecookbook on Instagram so we can see your delicious creation!
Editor’s Note: The post was originally published on August 9, 2011. The images and content have been updated.