Hawaiian Fried Won Tons

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons Recipe - A Taste of Tropical Paradise

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons are a delicious and crispy appetizer that combines the flavors of Spam, water chestnuts, and oyster sauce wrapped in a crispy wonton wrapper. These tasty morsels are perfect for parties or as a snack.

History

Fried won tons have been a popular dish in Hawaii for many years, influenced by the diverse culinary traditions of the islands. The combination of Spam, a beloved ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine, and the crispy texture of the fried wonton wrapper make this dish a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

1 (12 oz) container fully cooked luncheon meat (e.g. Spam), chopped
1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
3 tbsp green onions, chopped
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
3 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped
0.5 tsp pepper
1.5 tbsp oyster sauce
1 (14 oz) package square wonton wrappers
1 qt (946 ml) vegetable oil for frying

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine the lunchmeat, water chestnuts, green onions, parsley, hard-cooked eggs, pepper, and oyster sauce. Set aside.
On a clean flat surface, such as a cutting board, place 4 to 6 wonton skins at a time.
Put a tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of each wonton skin.
Keep a small bowl of water nearby to moisten your fingers. Use wet fingers to dampen the corners of each wrapper. Quickly pinch all four corners together to seal the filling. If it doesn't hold, use more water.
Cover the filled wontons with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out while making the rest.
In a deep heavy skillet, heat one inch of oil over medium-high heat, or heat the recommended amount of oil in a deep-fryer to 365°F (185°C).
Fry the wontons for a few minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.
Remove the fried wontons and place them on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Variations

Add diced pineapple or bell peppers to the filling for a tropical twist.
Substitute shrimp or chicken for the Spam for a different flavor profile.
Use different seasonings or sauces to customize the flavor of the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the wonton wrappers tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

- Use a deep-fryer or a heavy skillet with enough oil to fully submerge the wontons for even cooking.

- Fry the wontons in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure they cook evenly.

- Serve the fried won tons hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian Fried Won Tons with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping. They can also be served with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the won tons in hot oil ensures that they become crispy and golden brown. Make sure to fry them in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Spam, you can use cooked ground pork or chicken as a substitute. You can also use tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the won tons ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Assemble and fry the won tons just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fried won tons on a platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a decorative touch. Serve them on a bed of lettuce or cabbage leaves for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons pair well with a cold beer or a fruity cocktail. They also go well with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fried won tons in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hawaiian Fried Won Tons contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hawaiian Fried Won Tons contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hawaiian Fried Won Tons contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hawaiian Fried Won Tons contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons are a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat (in the wonton wrappers) and may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons are a flavorful and crispy appetizer that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Summary

Hawaiian Fried Won Tons are a delicious and crispy appetizer that combines the flavors of Spam, water chestnuts, and oyster sauce in a crispy wonton wrapper. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for parties or as a snack. Enjoy these tasty morsels with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I had always been drawn to the flavors and traditions of Hawaiian cuisine, and the thought of making my own Hawaiian Fried Won Tons was thrilling. The recipe was passed down to me by a dear friend who had spent years living in Hawaii and had learned the art of cooking from the local chefs.

I remember the day my friend handed me the recipe card, written in her elegant cursive handwriting. She explained to me that these fried won tons were a popular dish in Hawaii, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The crispy golden wrapper filled with a savory pork mixture was a delicious treat that could be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.

As I read over the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the flavors coming to life in my mind. The combination of ground pork, green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil sounded like a culinary symphony waiting to be created. I knew that I had to make these won tons and share them with my family and friends.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my kitchen, following the recipe carefully and adding my own personal touch along the way. I mixed the ground pork with the chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The aroma of the mixture filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, I carefully filled each wonton wrapper with a spoonful of the pork mixture and sealed them with a dab of water, folding them into the traditional triangle shape. As I worked, I thought back to the time when my friend had first taught me how to fold the wontons, her hands moving with ease and precision. I had stumbled a bit at first, but with practice, I had mastered the technique.

Once all the wontons were assembled, I heated a pot of oil on the stove and carefully lowered them in, watching as they sizzled and turned golden brown. The scent of the frying wontons filled the air, mingling with the sweet and savory aroma of the pork filling. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When the wontons were cooked to perfection, I removed them from the oil and placed them on a paper towel to drain. I arranged them on a platter, garnishing them with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and a drizzle of soy sauce. The golden brown wontons looked irresistible, their crispy shells beckoning me to take a bite.

I called my family to the table and we gathered around, eagerly reaching for the hot wontons. As we bit into the crispy shells, the savory pork filling burst with flavor, the combination of ingredients creating a delicious harmony on our taste buds. We savored each bite, savoring the taste of Hawaii in every mouthful.

As we finished the last wonton, I looked around at my family's satisfied faces and felt a sense of pride and contentment. I had successfully recreated a taste of Hawaii in my own kitchen, thanks to the recipe passed down to me by my dear friend. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite in our family, a reminder of the flavors and traditions of Hawaii that had captured my heart.

And so, with a full belly and a happy heart, I tucked the recipe card safely away in my recipe box, knowing that I would be making Hawaiian Fried Won Tons for years to come, sharing the taste of Hawaii with those I loved. It was a culinary journey that had brought me joy and fulfillment, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.