At the table
Lift a wonton with a spoon or chopsticks and let it cool before biting. If you want only wontons, ask whether the serving includes noodles.
Contains shrimp and usually wheat; wrappers may contain egg, and seasonings may contain soy, sesame or oyster. Filling and broth can be very hot. Check the actual recipe for allergies.
Shrimp makes this neither vegetarian nor vegan, even without pork. Broth and fillings vary; chili sauce added at the table changes the heat.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Shrimp-to-pork proportions, seasonings and broth vary. Some fillings use shrimp without pork; the name alone does not guarantee this.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory filling with shrimp sweetness; sesame oil and white pepper may add aroma. The representative boiled version has no chili.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft, slippery wrappers surround a juicy filling with a springy shrimp bite.
- How it’s made
- Season shrimp, often with chopped pork, fold into wonton wrappers and boil until the filling is cooked through. Serve drained or in broth.
Shrimp-to-pork proportions, seasonings and broth vary. Some fillings use shrimp without pork; the name alone does not guarantee this.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Guangdong.
About this regional connection
Guangdong: Liwan official local food account and Cantonese recipe support Guangdong association; no exclusive origin.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有鲜虾云吞吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
A Cantonese bowl, with or without noodles
Wontons are familiar everyday food in Guangzhou and Hong Kong, served by themselves or alongside noodles. Fillings vary: pork has a long place in the tradition, while shrimp-only and shrimp-and-pork versions are also found. The separate wonton portion lets you focus on the wrapper and filling.