Vietnamese Wonton Soup (Hoanh Thanh): A Comforting Delight

Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish has been embraced and adapted in Vietnam, Wonton Soup (Hoanh Thanh) holds a special place. This delicious dish features tender wontons filled with flavorful ingredients, served in a clear and savory broth. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese food or already a fan, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds. Let’s explore what makes Hoanh Thanh so special and how you can create it in your kitchen!

What is Wonton Soup (Hoanh Thanh)?

Hoanh Thanh, also known as Wonton Soup, is a traditional dish that originates from Chinese cuisine but has been beautifully adapted into Vietnamese food culture. This comforting dish features delicate wonton wrappers filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, shrimp, and flavorful seasonings. These tender dumplings are served in a light, aromatic broth made from simmered bones, dried shrimp, and fragrant herbs. Hoanh Thanh is enjoyed as a versatile dish, perfect for cozy family meals or festive gatherings. Its balance of textures and flavors makes it a timeless favorite in Vietnamese cuisine.

Key Ingredients

For the Wontons

• Wonton wrappers: 20 sheets
• Minced pork: 150g
• Shrimp, finely chopped: 100g
• Ginger and garlic: 1 teaspoon each, minced 
• Green onions: 1 stalk, finely chopped
• Seasonings:
  • Fish sauce: 1 teaspoon
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: a pinch.
  • Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon

For the Broth

• Chicken or pork bones: 500g
• Ginger: 1 small piece, smashed
• Dried shrimp: 30g
• Onion: 1, roasted
• Seasonings:
  • Salt: a little
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon
  • Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Process to Make Wonton Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced pork, finely chopped shrimp, minced ginger, minced garlic, and a small handful of chopped green onions.
2. Add the seasonings: 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper.
3. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the filling becomes well combined and sticky. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the filling marinate for about 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Wrap the Wontons

Step 3: Make the Broth

1. Rinse the chicken or pork bones under running water to remove any impurities.
2. Blanch the bones in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then drain and rinse them again.
3. In a large pot, add the cleaned bones, smashed ginger, dried shrimp, and roasted onion.
4. Pour in about 2 liters of water and bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, lower the heat and let the broth simmer for 40 minutes, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface to keep the broth clear.
6. After simmering, season the broth with salt, sugar, and fish sauce to taste

Step 4: Cook the Wontons

1. Bring a separate pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Carefully drop the prepared wontons into the boiling water.
3. Cook the wontons for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface, which indicates they are fully cooked.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons and set them aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Soup

1. Place the cooked wontons into individual serving bowls (about 4-5 wontons per bowl).
2. Ladle the hot broth over the wontons, ensuring they are submerged in the flavorful soup.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of pepper for added aroma and color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the wonton soup hot with optional sides like steamed rice, chili oil, or soy sauce for dipping. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the wontons remain tender and the broth retains its aromatic essence.

Pro Tips from My Mother for Perfect Hoanh Thanh

– Always soak the dried shrimp: Before adding dried shrimp to the broth, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. This softens the shrimp and intensifies their umami flavor in the soup. Save the soaking water to enhance the broth’s depth.

– Parboil the pork bones twice: Before preparing the broth, it’s essential to blanch the pork or chicken bones twice. Start by placing the bones in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes, then discard the water. Repeat the process once more to thoroughly remove impurities and any unwanted residues. This step ensures a cleaner and more flavorful broth, as it eliminates any unpleasant odors or cloudy substances that might affect the final soup.

– Place the mixed filling in the refrigerator: Before wrapping the wontons, place the mixed filling in the refrigerator for a while. This step helps maintain the freshness of the ingredients and prevents the filling from becoming watery or spoiled. Chilling the mixture ensures that the wontons will hold their shape better during wrapping and cooking, resulting in a firmer texture and a more delicious final dish.

– Use Low Heat for the Broth: My mother always says, “Patience makes a perfect broth.” Simmer the bones and aromatics on low heat, and skim the foam regularly. This method keeps the broth clear and full of flavor.

– Serve immediately: Make sure to enjoy the dish while it’s still steaming hot. The warmth not only enhances the flavors of the broth and filling but also adds a comforting sensation that makes the experience even more delightful. There’s something truly special about savoring a fresh bowl of wonton soup, with the tender dumplings and aromatic broth at their peak of perfection.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Wonton Soup (Hoanh Thanh) is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting experience that connects us to the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam. With its delicate wontons filled with savory ingredients and a light, flavorful broth, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re introducing Vietnamese cuisine to your loved ones or recreating nostalgic flavors from your childhood, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.

Ready to bring the taste of Vietnam into your kitchen? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple process, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of Wonton Soup. Share your culinary masterpiece with VNIFood or tag us on social media to inspire others to try this Vietnamese classic! Let’s spread the love for Hoanh Thanh!