These Crispy Fried Wontons are golden, crunchy delights filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shrimp, cabbage, and aromatic seasonings. A staple in Chinese cuisine and widely popular across Asia and beyond, these little bundles of joy are deep-fried to perfection and best served hot with a dipping sauce like soy-vinegar or sweet chili.
Wontons are traditionally wrapped in thin square wrappers and can be boiled, steamed, or fried — but the fried version offers that irresistible crunch that makes them a favorite at dim sum tables and Chinese takeouts alike.
Making fried wontons at home is easier than you might think, and you have full control over the ingredients. Customize the filling with chicken, tofu, or mushrooms for vegetarian options. They’re ideal for parties, game nights, or as a quick snack paired with your favorite beverage.
Once you try homemade fried wontons, you may never go back to store-bought or frozen versions again!
Ingredients (Makes about 30–40 pieces):
For the Filling:
- 200g ground pork or chicken
- 100g peeled and finely chopped shrimp (or substitute with finely chopped mushrooms)
- ½ cup finely chopped Napa cabbage
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 30–40 wonton wrappers (square-shaped)
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Oil for deep frying
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Soy sauce + rice vinegar + chili oil
- Sweet chili sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Garlic chili sauce
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix together all filling ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Fill and Fold
Place a small spoonful (about ½ tsp) of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Dip your finger in water or beaten egg and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold one corner over to meet the opposite corner to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly to seal.
For a decorative “crimped” edge, press the edges together with the tines of a fork.
Step 3: Fry the Wontons
Heat oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few wontons into the oil (don’t overcrowd). Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Repeat with remaining wontons.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Pro Tips:
- Use a non-stick pan and fresh wrappers for easier folding and crispier results.
- Freeze uncooked wontons on a tray before transferring to a ziplock bag — fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to cooking time.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing meat with finely chopped mushrooms and tofu.
- Add a splash of rice wine or Shaoxing wine to the filling for extra depth of flavor.
