I think they're fried strips of wonton paper/wrappers.

Around here, egg drop soup is served with won ton wrappers, cut into strips and deep fried.

They are fried wonton strips. Super easy to make on your own! Bake 'em instead of frying them for a slightly healthier option. With take out, they are often served with "duck sauce."

Ditto the wonton strips. I've discovered it's a regional thing. I saw them much more frequently when living on the east coast (where they're often dropped on a table when you sit down, regardless of whether you order soup) than I do living here in Chicago.

I think one of the major Chinese grocery brands (La Choy?) also sells these. Trader Joe's used to but, sadly, they've been discontinued.

yup :) they are wanton wrappers the egg type is what is used normally. my dad usually buys the large sized ones and cut them into strips at the restaurant, and then deep fry them. though make sure to drain well or else all that extra oil will make it too soggy or rancid if kept to long..

Harrison has the right idea. If you don't drain them well, it's just a mess and they get icky quick. We sprinkle hot strips with sugar and kosher salt for a light, sweet & salty snack. We crunch them over homemade ice cream. For soup, of course, you'll want to skip the sugar, but a little salt doesn't hurt if the dough isn't well seasoned to start with. You can make your own wonton dough or just buy the wrappers. Usually, they are in the produce section of most well-stocked grocery stores. If you don't have them at your store, you should be able to get them if you talk with the grocery manager.

Thanks so much! I had no idea what they were, but would love to make some. I live in Tanzania right now and can't get wonton wrappers, but just found some recipes for them. I can't wait to give it a try!
-Holly

They're sometimes called "Chinese noodles" (yes, I know there's a redundancy in there...)