Spicy Lemongrass Wonton Soup is a delightful fusion of heat, citrus, and umami flavors that will warm your soul. This dish combines the aromatic essence of lemongrass with the comforting texture of homemade wontons, making it a perfect choice for those craving something both exotic and satisfying.
Ground chicken serves as the hearty base for the wonton filling, providing a lean and tender texture. The soy sauce and sesame oil add depth and a hint of umami, while the ginger and white pepper bring subtle heat and warmth. Scallions contribute a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Wonton wrappers are the perfect vessel for our savory filling, transforming into soft and delicate pockets when cooked. The chicken broth forms the soup's base, while the lemongrass infuses it with a citrusy aroma. Fish sauce, lime juice, and chili paste add layers of complexity and heat, while the baby bok choy and shiitake mushrooms offer freshness and earthiness. Finally, cilantro provides a bright, herbal finish.
This soup pairs beautifully with a side of steamed jasmine rice, which can soak up the flavorful broth. A light cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also complement the rich, robust flavors of the soup.
Start by making the wonton filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, white pepper, and scallions. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. This will ensure the flavors are distributed evenly.
Next, lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about a teaspoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with a little water, then fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal them tightly — you don't want any filling escaping!
With the wontons ready, move on to the soup. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and lemongrass, sautéing until fragrant. This should take about a minute, releasing those wonderful aromas.
Add the chicken broth, fish sauce, lime juice, chili paste, and salt to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, which will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Once boiling, carefully add the wontons to the broth. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, until they're floating and cooked through. Add the bok choy and mushrooms, simmering for an additional 3 minutes to allow the vegetables to cook and absorb the flavors.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a generous sprinkle of cilantro. Enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas before diving in!