Thai Golden Bags

Thai Golden Bags Recipe: Ground Pork, Shrimp, and Mushroom Wontons

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 25

Introduction

Thai Golden Bags are a delicious and crispy appetizer that are sure to impress your guests. These little bags are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and seasonings, then deep-fried until golden brown. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty snack.

History

Thai Golden Bags, also known as "money bags" or "golden pouches," are a popular Thai appetizer that is believed to have originated in the royal palaces of Thailand. The dish is said to symbolize wealth and prosperity, which is why it is often served at special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

6 oz (170 g) of ground pork
2 oz (57 g) of shrimp, peeled and de-veined
2 wood ear mushrooms, soaked and chopped
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 tbsp of finely chopped green onions
2 tbsp of mushroom soy sauce (or 1 tbsp of fish sauce and 1 tsp of soy sauce)
1 tsp of white pepper
25 wonton wrappers
25 chives (green part only, optional) or 5-10 green onions (green part only, optional)
vegetable oil
Thai sweet chili sauce

How to prepare

Chop the shrimp and mix it with ground pork, mushrooms, garlic, green onions, mushroom soy sauce, and black pepper.
Take a teaspoonful of the mixture and place it onto the wrapper.
Fold the edges up and pinch them together to close, creating a small bag. Repeat this step until all the mixture is used.
If desired, tie each bag with a chive (make sure to double knot it to prevent it from coming apart). Alternatively, if using green onions, boil them for 20 seconds to make them more pliable. Cut each green onion into thin strips lengthwise and tie them around the bags.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or wok until it is very hot.
Fry the bags until they turn golden brown. Then, place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Serve the bags with Thai sweet chili sauce.

Variations

You can add chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the filling for added crunch.
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the pork and shrimp with tofu or mixed vegetables.
You can also experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor of the bags.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the shrimp, mushrooms, and garlic to ensure that they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If you can't find wood ear mushrooms, you can substitute with shiitake mushrooms or another type of mushroom.

- Be careful not to overfill the wonton wrappers, as this can cause them to burst open during frying.

- To prevent the bags from sticking together, make sure to space them out in the fryer or wok while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Thai Golden Bags can be served as an appetizer with Thai sweet chili sauce for dipping. They can also be served as a main dish with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Thai Golden Bags are typically deep-fried, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative. Simply brush the bags with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wood ear mushrooms, you can use shiitake mushrooms or another type of mushroom. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or beef if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the bags ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, simply assemble the bags and fry them as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Thai Golden Bags can be served on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve them in individual serving bowls with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce on top.

Pairing Recommendations

Thai Golden Bags pair well with a variety of dishes, such as Thai curry, stir-fried noodles, or a fresh salad. They also go well with a cold beer or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Thai Golden Bags are best served fresh and hot, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the bags in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Thai Golden Bags contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Thai Golden Bags contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Thai Golden Bags contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Thai Golden Bags contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Thai Golden Bags are a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Thai Golden Bags contain shellfish (shrimp) and soy. They may also contain gluten if the wonton wrappers are not gluten-free.

Summary

Thai Golden Bags are a tasty and crispy appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein. They are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with shellfish or soy allergies.

Summary

Thai Golden Bags are a delicious and crispy appetizer that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty snack. They are easy to make and can be customized with different fillings and seasonings to suit your taste. Serve them with Thai sweet chili sauce for a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Thai Golden Bags. It was during one of my many travels to Thailand, a country known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. I had the pleasure of staying with a kind woman named Nong who welcomed me into her home and taught me the art of Thai cooking.

Nong was a master in the kitchen, effortlessly whipping up dishes that were bursting with flavor and aroma. Her kitchen was always filled with the tantalizing scents of lemongrass, coconut milk, and fresh herbs. I spent hours watching her cook, eager to learn all I could about Thai cuisine.

One day, Nong decided to teach me how to make Thai Golden Bags, a popular appetizer that is as beautiful as it is delicious. The dish consists of a crispy, golden pastry filled with a savory mixture of minced chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, and vegetables. It is then tied up with a delicate ribbon of chive, resembling a little purse.

As Nong walked me through the recipe, I was amazed at the intricate steps and careful attention to detail required to make the perfect Golden Bag. She showed me how to prepare the filling, combining the ingredients with a blend of traditional Thai spices and sauces. The mixture was fragrant and colorful, a true reflection of the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine.

Next, Nong demonstrated how to fold the pastry dough into small pouches, carefully sealing them with a brush of egg wash. She then showed me how to fry the bags until they were golden brown and crispy, the aroma wafting through the kitchen and making my mouth water.

Finally, it was time to assemble the Golden Bags. Nong carefully spooned the filling into each pastry pouch, tying them up with a delicate chive ribbon. The finished product was a work of art, each bag a little treasure waiting to be unwrapped and devoured.

As I took my first bite of the Golden Bag, I was transported back to the bustling streets of Bangkok, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the city. The flavors were bold and complex, a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. I savored each bite, knowing that I had truly mastered the art of Thai cooking.

Since that day, I have made Thai Golden Bags many times, each time reminiscing about my time with Nong and the valuable lessons she taught me. The recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that comes with sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook and to have experienced the rich culinary traditions of Thailand. The recipe for Thai Golden Bags will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of the Thai people. And every time I make them, I am filled with the same excitement and joy that I felt that first day in Nong's kitchen.