Yangzhou Crunchy Wontons
A Taste of Yangzhou
Yangzhou Crunchy Wontons are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, originating from the city of Yangzhou in China. Known for its rich culinary heritage, Yangzhou is renowned for its versatility in transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. These wontons are crispy on the outside and deliciously flavorful on the inside, making them a popular choice among street food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.
Ingredients
- Wonton wrappers - 20 pieces
- Ground pork - 250 grams
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined - 100 grams
- Spring onions, finely chopped - 2 stalks
- Ginger, minced - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic, minced - 1 clove
- Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- White pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Water for sealing wontons
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, finely chopped shrimp, spring onions, ginger, and garlic. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Mix until well combined and slightly sticky. This will ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Wrap the Wontons
Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about a teaspoon of the filling mixture into the center of the wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water using your finger. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle, making sure to press the edges firmly to seal.
Bring the two outer corners of the triangle together, using a little water to seal the wonton into a crescent shape. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). If you don't have a thermometer, you can test the oil with a small piece of wonton wrapper; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
Step 2: Fry the Wontons
Carefully add the wontons to the hot oil, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wontons from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels.
Enjoying Your Wontons
Serve the Yangzhou Crunchy Wontons immediately, with your choice of dipping sauce. Traditional options include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a dash of vinegar, or a spicy peanut sauce. These wontons are perfect as an appetizer or a party snack, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in each bite.