Cream Cheese Wontons

Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe from China with Sweet and Sour Sauce

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cream Cheese Wontons are a popular appetizer in Chinese cuisine, known for their crispy exterior and creamy, savory filling. These delicious bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a tasty snack.

History

Cream Cheese Wontons are believed to have originated in China, where they are known as "Rangoon Wontons." They were later popularized in the United States by Chinese-American restaurants, where they became a staple on appetizer menus.

Ingredients

1 cup of cream cheese
16 wonton wrappers or 24 egg roll wrappers
oil for frying
sweet and sour sauce

How to prepare

Heat oil in a deep-fat fryer or pour into a deep skillet over high heat.
Vegetable oil or peanut oil is recommended.
While the oil is heating, lay out as many wrappers as you plan to use.
Have a small bowl of water nearby to moisten your fingers.
Place a small amount of cream cheese in one corner of each wrapper, about 0.5” from the edges.
Use approximately 2 tsp for egg roll wrappers or 1 tsp for wonton wrappers.
Moisten the two edges closest to the cream cheese with your fingers, then fold the other half down and seal the edges, creating a triangle shape.
Seal the edges tightly, but leave small gaps at the corners to prevent the triangles from expanding too much and bursting.
Carefully drop several wontons into the hot oil at a time.
Flip them over when the edges start to brown and cook for another minute or two.
Place the cooked wontons on paper towels to drain, then serve them hot with sweet-and-sour sauce.

Variations

Add chopped green onions or garlic to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor.
Substitute crab meat or shrimp for the cream cheese for a seafood twist on this classic recipe.
Bake the wontons in the oven for a healthier alternative to frying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the edges of the wontons tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

- Use a small amount of cream cheese in each wonton to ensure that they cook evenly and have a balanced flavor.

- Be careful not to overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy wontons.

- Serve the wontons hot and fresh for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Cream cheese wontons can be served as an appetizer with sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce. They pair well with other Chinese dishes such as fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or lo mein.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional cooking technique for cream cheese wontons, but they can also be baked or air-fried for a lighter option.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use wonton wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers for smaller, bite-sized wontons.

- Substitute tofu or mashed potatoes for the cream cheese for a vegan version of this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream cheese wontons can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to fry. They can also be frozen and fried straight from the freezer for a quick and easy appetizer.

Presentation Ideas

Serve cream cheese wontons on a platter garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. Arrange them in a decorative pattern for an eye-catching display.

Pairing Recommendations

Cream cheese wontons pair well with a variety of beverages, including green tea, beer, or a fruity white wine. They also complement dishes with bold flavors such as spicy Szechuan chicken or tangy orange beef.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover cream cheese wontons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cream cheese wontons (4 pieces) contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each cream cheese wonton contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each cream cheese wonton contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each cream cheese wonton contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream cheese wontons are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Cream cheese wontons contain dairy (cream cheese) and wheat (egg roll wrappers), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cream cheese wontons are a tasty but indulgent treat, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Cream Cheese Wontons are a delicious and versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger Chinese meal. With a crispy exterior and creamy filling, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Cream Cheese Wontons. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the secrets of the kitchen. My grandmother, who was a fantastic cook herself, had always encouraged me to experiment with new recipes and flavors. One day, while flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, I came across a recipe for Cream Cheese Wontons.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing, calling for just a few ingredients – cream cheese, green onions, garlic, and wonton wrappers. I had never tried making wontons before, but something about the creamy cheese filling and crispy shell caught my eye. I decided to give it a try and see if I could recreate the delicious appetizer at home.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. As I mixed the cream cheese with minced garlic and finely chopped green onions, the aroma that filled the air was simply divine. I carefully folded the wonton wrappers around the creamy filling, sealing them with a bit of water to ensure they stayed together during frying.

I heated up a pot of oil on the stove and carefully dropped the wontons in, watching as they sizzled and crisped up to a golden brown. The smell that wafted from the pot was mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the wontons were ready, I carefully removed them from the hot oil and placed them on a paper towel to drain. I sprinkled them with a bit of salt and pepper before taking a bite, and I was instantly transported to food heaven. The creamy cheese filling melted in my mouth, while the crispy shell provided the perfect crunch. It was a match made in culinary heaven.

I was so proud of myself for successfully making Cream Cheese Wontons, and I couldn't wait to share the recipe with my family and friends. They all raved about how delicious they were, and soon enough, the recipe became a staple at our family gatherings and parties.

Over the years, I have made Cream Cheese Wontons countless times, each batch better than the last. I have perfected the recipe, adjusting the seasoning and adding my own twist with a drizzle of sweet and sour sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.

I have shared the recipe with many people over the years, passing down the culinary tradition to the next generation. My own children and grandchildren have learned to make Cream Cheese Wontons, and they too have fallen in love with the simple yet delicious appetizer.

As I look back on that fateful day when I stumbled upon the recipe for Cream Cheese Wontons, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and discovering new recipes and flavors has been a lifelong adventure.

I cherish the memories of making Cream Cheese Wontons with my loved ones, gathered around the kitchen as we rolled and fried each delicate parcel of deliciousness. The recipe may have come from a dusty old cookbook, but the joy it has brought to my life is timeless. And for that, I am forever grateful.