Crispy Fried Wonton Recipe

Who doesn’t love the crunch of a perfectly fried wonton? These delightful pockets of flavor are not only a favorite at dim sum restaurants, but they also make for a fantastic appetizer or snack at home. My Crispy Fried Wonton Recipe is packed with juicy shrimp and aromatic herbs, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. With a crispy exterior and a tender filling, these wontons are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty treat!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy wonton. The contrast of textures—the crunch of the wrapper and the tender filling—creates a delightful eating experience. This particular recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, they make the perfect party snack or a cozy addition to a family dinner.

Ingredient Notes

To create the perfect crispy fried wontons, here’s what you will need:

• Shrimp: 1 pound of shrimp, shelled and deveined. Fresh shrimp works best for this recipe, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
• Garlic: 1 teaspoon minced garlic adds depth and a savory note to the filling.
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon minced ginger enhances the wonton with a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Coriander: 1 tablespoon chopped coriander (cilantro) brightens up the filling with its aromatic qualities.
• White Sesame Seeds: 1 teaspoon provides a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon adds a rich, toasted flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon for seasoning; you can use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
• Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon helps bind the filling and gives it a lovely texture.
• Black Pepper: A pinch to taste, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• Wonton Wrappers: 10 wrappers, which can be found in most grocery stores in the refrigerated section.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: To fry the wontons to golden perfection.
• Slotted Spoon: For removing the wontons from the oil once they are crispy.
• Paper Towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
• Pastry Brush: For sealing the wonton wrappers.
• Measuring Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.

Crispy Fried Wonton Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have everything ready, let’s make these delicious crispy fried wontons!

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shelled and deveined shrimp, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped coriander, white sesame seeds, sesame oil, soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Wontons

Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of the shrimp filling in the center. Using a pastry brush, lightly moisten the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal tightly. You can also fold the corners of the triangle to the top to create a little purse shape if desired. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of wonton wrapper; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Fry the Wontons

Carefully add a few wontons to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the crispy fried wontons hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy the crunch and flavor with every bite!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to make a vegan or vegetarian version of these wontons, here are some swaps you can make:

• Replace Shrimp: Use chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage for the filling.
• Sesame Oil: Keep the sesame oil for flavor, but ensure all other sauces used are plant-based.
• Wonton Wrappers: Some wonton wrappers contain egg, so be sure to choose egg-free varieties.

Problems & Prevention

While making crispy fried wontons is generally straightforward, here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

• Wontons Opening While Frying: Ensure that the edges are well sealed with water, and avoid overfilling them.
• Greasy Wontons: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot, the wontons will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Burnt Wontons: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Filling Not Cooked Thoroughly: Make sure not to overfill the wontons, and allow them enough time to fry until golden brown.

Save It for Later

These crispy fried wontons can be made in advance and frozen for later enjoyment. Here’s how to save them:

After assembling the wontons, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I bake these wontons instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the wontons for a healthier option! Brush them lightly with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces pair well with wontons?

Some popular dipping sauces include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce mixed with rice vinegar, and spicy mustard. You can also try making a peanut dipping sauce for a creamy option!

How do I store leftover wontons?

Store leftover cooked wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your filling. You can add vegetables, different proteins, or spices to suit your taste. Just ensure that whatever you add is finely chopped to fit in the wonton wrappers.

Explore More

If you enjoyed this crispy fried wonton recipe, you might also like:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for delightful desserts.
• Pinch of Yum for more delicious meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker for simple and satisfying recipes.

Bring It Home

Crispy Fried Wontons are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or gathering. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also fun to make. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come from your kitchen! Happy cooking!