What is the Difference Between Dumpling and Wonton?

Dumplings and wontons are both popular Chinese dishes, but they have some key differences:

1. Wrapper: Wonton wrappers are thinner and usually square, while dumpling wrappers are thicker and typically round. Wonton wrappers may also contain egg.
2. Filling: Dumplings can be filled or unfilled, while wontons always have a well-seasoned filling. Wontons typically contain meat, such as pork or shrimp, and vegetables like shallots and ginger.
3. Size: Dumplings can range from small (appetizer size) to large (a meal on their own), while wontons are usually small and served in soups or as an appetizer.
4. Cooking Method: Wontons are either deep-fried or cooked in boiling water or broth, while dumplings can be steamed, pan-fried, or boiled.

In summary, wontons are a specific type of dumpling with thinner, square wrappers, and a well-seasoned filling, often served in soup or as an appetizer. Dumplings, on the other hand, can be filled or unfilled and come in various sizes, with thicker, round wrappers and a wider range of cooking methods.

Comparative Table: Dumpling vs Wonton

Here is a table comparing the differences between dumplings and wontons:

In conclusion, while both dumplings and wontons are popular dishes made from dough and filled with various ingredients, they have distinct differences in terms of dough thickness, shape, filling, cooking methods, and cultural origins.