Prawn Wontons

Prawn Wontons Recipe - Traditional Chinese Cuisine

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

Introduction

Prawn wontons are a delicious and popular dish in Chinese cuisine. These dumplings are filled with a flavorful mixture of prawns, pork, water chestnuts, and spring onions, wrapped in a thin wonton wrapper, and then poached in a flavorful chicken stock. They make for a perfect appetizer or light meal.

History

Wontons have been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. The exact origins of prawn wontons are unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China. Traditionally, wontons were filled with pork and shrimp, but variations with prawns have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Ingredients

8 large prawns
1 tbsp minced pork
1 tbsp water chestnuts
2 spring onions, finely chopped
1 tsp dry sherry
salt and pepper
1 egg white
wonton wrappers
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
3 cups chicken stock for poaching

How to prepare

Place prawns, pork, water chestnuts, spring onions, sherry, salt, and pepper in a food processor and mix until it forms a paste.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and beat in the egg white until the mixture thickens.
Take a wonton wrapper and place a teaspoon of the mixture in the center.
Dip your finger in cornstarch water and run it along the four edges of the wrapper.
Bring all four corners up to a point in the middle and press along each edge to seal.
Repeat the process with the remaining mixture.
Poach the wontons in simmering stock for 3 to 4 minutes.
Drain the wontons and serve them with sprigs of coriander.

Variations

Substitute the prawns with chicken or tofu for a different flavor.
Add chopped vegetables such as cabbage or mushrooms to the filling for added texture and nutrition.
Fry the wontons instead of poaching them for a crispy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the prawns, pork, water chestnuts, and spring onions to ensure a smooth and even filling.

- Be sure to seal the wontons tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

- Poach the wontons gently in simmering stock to ensure they cook through without falling apart.

- Serve the wontons immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Prawn wontons can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. They can also be added to a bowl of hot broth for a comforting soup.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to quickly and evenly mix the filling ingredients.

- Poach the wontons gently in simmering stock to ensure they cook through without becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the prawns with chicken, tofu, or mushrooms for a different flavor.

- Use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling and assemble the wontons ahead of time, then poach them just before serving.

- Freeze the assembled wontons for up to 1 month, then poach them directly from frozen.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the wontons in a shallow bowl with a ladle of hot broth and garnish with fresh herbs. - Arrange the wontons on a platter with a side of dipping sauce for a party appetizer.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve prawn wontons with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

- Pair them with a light and crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the wontons gently in simmering stock or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of prawn wontons contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of prawn wontons contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of prawn wontons contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of prawn wontons contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Prawn wontons are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Prawn wontons contain shellfish, pork, and eggs.

Summary

Prawn wontons are a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are a flavorful and satisfying option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

Prawn wontons are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or light meal. Filled with a flavorful mixture of prawns, pork, and vegetables, wrapped in a delicate wonton wrapper, and poached in a savory broth, they are a comforting and satisfying option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mei Ling in her bustling kitchen. Mei Ling was a master in the art of Chinese cooking, and she graciously offered to teach me how to make her famous Prawn Wontons.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the filling, Mei Ling shared stories of her own grandmother teaching her the recipe many years ago. She explained the importance of fresh prawns, ginger, and garlic in creating the perfect flavor profile for the wontons. I watched in awe as she expertly folded the delicate wrappers around the succulent prawn filling, creating little parcels of joy.

After a few failed attempts at folding the wontons myself, Mei Ling patiently guided me through the process, showing me the proper technique for sealing the edges and creating the signature pleats on top. She laughed as I struggled to get it right, reminding me that practice makes perfect.

Finally, we boiled the wontons in a fragrant broth of chicken stock, soy sauce, and green onions. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor.

The first bite of the Prawn Wonton was a revelation. The tender prawn filling burst with flavor, complemented by the subtle heat of the ginger and garlic. The wrappers were perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of chewiness. I savored each bite, feeling grateful for Mei Ling's guidance and the opportunity to learn such a special recipe.

From that day on, Prawn Wontons became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when I wanted a taste of nostalgia. Each time I made them, I would think back to that summer day with Mei Ling, and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a cherished tradition.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different fillings and broths to create unique variations. But no matter how many times I make them, the memory of learning to make Prawn Wontons with Mei Ling will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I pass on this recipe to future generations, I hope that they too will find joy in the art of cooking and the bond that is created through sharing food with loved ones. And who knows, maybe one day they will discover a new recipe of their own, and the cycle of culinary inspiration will continue to thrive.