Are you looking for a comforting soup that's both filling and nutritious? Look no further than a bowl of Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup! At 220 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free.
But it's not just low in calories; this soup is also packed with macronutrients. One serving contains 17 grams of protein, 33 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fat. Plus, it's loaded with vitamins and minerals.
In this article, we'll explore the history of wonton soup, its health benefits, and some delicious side dishes to pair it with. Plus, we'll provide step-by-step instructions for making Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup at home!
Calories and Macronutrients
As mentioned earlier, one bowl of Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup contains 220 calories. But the soup also contains 17 grams of protein, which will help keep you feeling full and satisfied. The 33 grams of carbohydrates provide energy to power you through your day, while the 3 grams of fat are essential for absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. Overall, this soup is a great option for a filling and nutrient-dense meal. Plus, the wonton wrappers add a fun and satisfying texture.
Micronutrients in Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
In addition to macronutrients, Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is also loaded with micronutrients. The chicken provides a healthy dose of protein and vitamin B12, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The soup broth is also a great source of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. And let's not forget about the wontons themselves; they are made with white flour, which contains iron and B vitamins. Overall, Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is a great way to pack in a variety of vitamins and minerals in one tasty dish.
How to Make Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
Making Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup at home is easier than you might think. Here's what you'll need: - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and bok choy)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 package wonton wrappers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Soy sauce and sesame oil, to taste To make the soup, start by poaching the chicken in the chicken broth until cooked through. Remove the chicken and shred with two forks, then return it to the pot. Add the vegetables, garlic, and ginger to the pot and let simmer until the vegetables are tender. Meanwhile, prepare the wontons according to the package instructions. Once the soup is done, add the wontons and green onions, then season with soy sauce and sesame oil to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
What Are Wontons?
If you're not familiar with wontons, they are small dumplings made with thin sheets of dough. The filling can be made with virtually anything, but in this soup, the wontons are typically filled with ground pork, shrimp, or chicken and chopped vegetables. Wontons are a popular food in Chinese cuisine and can be found on the menu at many Chinese restaurants. They can be boiled, steamed, or deep-fried, and are often served with a dipping sauce or added to soups.
History of Wonton Soup
Wonton soup has a long and rich history in Chinese cuisine. It is believed to have originated in northern China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). The word 'wonton' means 'swallowing clouds' in Chinese, which refers to the way the wontons float in the soup. It was originally a street food, but eventually became a popular dish in restaurants throughout China and later the world.
Health Benefits of Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is not only delicious, but also has a variety of health benefits. For one, it is a great source of lean protein which can aid in muscle growth and repair. The vegetables are also packed with fiber, which can help with digestion and weight management. The soup broth is low in calories and fat, which makes it a good option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. And the combination of vitamins and minerals in the soup can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy. Overall, Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal that can help you meet your health goals.
Side Dishes That Go Well With Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
While Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is a complete meal on its own, you can also pair it with some delicious side dishes to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas: - Steamed rice: A classic side dish that pairs well with any Asian-inspired cuisine.
- Asian-style slaw: Make a simple slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Vegetable stir-fry: Whip up a quick stir-fry with your favorite veggies and a protein of your choice.
- Egg rolls: If you're feeling extra hungry, add some crispy egg rolls to your meal!
Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup Vs Other Soups
Soup is a great option for a filling and nutritious meal, but not all soups are created equal. Here's how Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup stacks up against some other popular soups: - Chicken noodle soup: Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup has fewer calories and more protein than chicken noodle soup.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is a better option for those trying to watch their saturated fat intake.
- Tomato soup: While tomato soup can be a good source of vitamins, it is often high in sodium. Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is a lower-sodium option.
Variations of Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
While Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup is delicious as is, there are also plenty of ways to switch it up and make it your own. Here are a few ideas: - Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
- Add some spice with red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.
- Use different vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Make your own wontons from scratch for an extra special touch.
Where to Find Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup can be found at many Chinese restaurants, as well as some grocery stores. If you prefer to make it at home, all of the ingredients can typically be found at your local supermarket or Asian grocery store. And with the recipe provided earlier in this article, you can make it anytime at home and enjoy it with your loved ones!
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
1. What are the ingredients in the soup?
The main ingredients in this soup are chicken, vegetables, and wontons. The exact vegetables used may vary, but commonly include carrots, bok choy, and mushrooms. The soup is also flavored with various spices and seasonings.
2. How many calories are in one bowl of soup?
One bowl of Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup contains 220 calories.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
The wontons in this soup are typically made with wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, there may be gluten-free variations available depending on the recipe or brand.
4. How is the soup prepared?
The soup is typically made by simmering chicken, vegetables, and seasonings in broth. Wontons are then added and the soup is cooked until the wontons are fully cooked. The exact preparation method may vary depending on the recipe or brand.
5. What are the nutritional benefits of this soup?
This soup can be a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, depending on the specific ingredients used. However, it may also contain added sodium and other less healthy ingredients, so it is important to check the nutrition label and ingredient list before consuming.