Fried wontons are a popular Chinese appetizer that has become a beloved dish around the world. These crispy and savory treats are a great way to start off any meal or to snack on throughout the day. In this article, we’ll explore what fried wontons are, their history, how they’re made, and some popular variations.
The recipe for jiaozi spread across China and eventually made its way to other parts of Asia, such as Japan and Korea. In the United States, Chinese immigrants brought the recipe for jiaozi with them, but over time, it evolved into the fried wonton that we know and love today.
Fried wontons are a type of dumpling that is made by filling a small square of wonton wrapper with a savory mixture and then deep-frying it until it’s crispy and golden brown. The filling can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as ground pork, shrimp, or vegetables, and is typically seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
Fried wontons are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce or a spicy chili oil sauce. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a snack, and are a great addition to any party or gathering.
History of Fried Wontons
The origins of fried wontons can be traced back to China’s Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It was during this time that a new cooking technique called “jing” was invented, which involved deep-frying pieces of dough until they turned golden brown. These fried dough pieces were then served with various savory sauces and became known as “Jiaozi.”
The recipe for jiaozi spread across China and eventually made its way to other parts of Asia, such as Japan and Korea. In the United States, Chinese immigrants brought the recipe for jiaozi with them, but over time, it evolved into the fried wonton that we know and love today.
How to Make Fried Wontons
Making fried wontons is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. To make fried wontons, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- Wonton wrappers
- Filling (ground pork, shrimp, or vegetables)
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- Prepare the filling by mixing together your chosen ingredients along with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Then, place a small amount of filling in the center of a wonton wrapper and fold it into a triangle, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
- Heat up oil in a deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the wontons and fry until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the wontons from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Popular Variations of Fried Wontons
There are many different variations of fried wontons, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular variations include:
- Cream Cheese Wontons: These are made by filling the wonton wrapper with cream cheese and chives, then deep-frying until crispy.
- Crab Rangoon: A popular variation of fried wontons that’s made by filling the wonton wrapper with a mixture of cream cheese, crab meat, and green onions.
- Shrimp Wontons: These are made by filling the wonton wrapper with shrimp, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts, then deep-frying until crispy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fried wontons are a delicious and popular appetizer that has its roots in Chinese cuisine. These crispy and savory treats are a great way to start off any meal or to snack on throughout the day. Whether you prefer them with a sweet and sour dipping sauce or a spicy chili oil sauce, fried wontons are sure to satisfy your cravings for something crunchy and delicious.
