Name: Crispy Fried Wontons Recipe: Easy Delight in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Ground Pork/Beef/Chicken (or tofu for vegetarian); 7 oz Shrimp (cubed, raw); 1 stalk Scallions (finely chopped); 1 tsp Ginger (minced); 3 tbsp Water; 1 tbsp Shaoxing Rice Wine (or dry sherry); 1 tsp Light Soy Sauce; 1 tbsp Cornstarch; ½ tsp Sesame Oil; ½ tsp Salt; ¼ tsp Ground White Pepper; 1 pinch Sugar; Wonton Wrappers (fresh preferred); Neutral Cooking Oil (for deep-frying); Dipping Sauces (chili oil, chili garlic sauce, or sweet chili sauce)

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crispy crunch of fried wontons, isn’t there? The moment I take my first bite, I’m transported to lively dim sum houses filled with laughter and the delightful clinking of chopsticks. This recipe is my personal favorite because it effortlessly elevates the simplest of ingredients into a mouthwatering treat the whole family will love.

Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional deep-fried version or a lighter air-fried alternative, these wontons can be customized with your choice of fillings—perfect for clearing out the fridge or impressing guests at your next gathering. In just 33 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it the ideal candidate for effortless weeknight cooking or weekend entertaining. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones with these scrumptious fried wontons!

Why is this Fried Wontons Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these crispy wontons in just 33 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Customizable Fillings: Use your favorite ingredients, from classic ground pork to vegetarian options like tofu, tailoring each batch to your family’s taste preferences.

Two Cooking Methods: Whether you crave the classic deep-fried crunch or a lighter air-fried version, this recipe has you covered.

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Packed with flavor and perfect for gatherings, these wontons are sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful mix of textures, blending a crispy exterior with a juicy, savory filling. If you’re looking for more delicious options, try pairing these wontons with a bowl of Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a comforting meal!

Fried Wontons Recipe Ingredients

For the Filling
• Wonton Wrappers – The perfect canvas; fresh wrappers best retain moisture and crispiness.
• Ground Pork/Beef/Chicken (8 oz) – Rich, meaty flavor; tofu makes a great vegetarian substitute.
• Shrimp (7 oz) – Adds a sweet, briny element; use raw, cubed shrimp for even cooking.
• Scallions (1 stalk) – Finely chopped for fresh, oniony crunch.
• Ginger (1 tsp) – Minced to infuse warmth and a hint of spice.
• Water (3 tbsp) – Binds the filling for moisture during cooking.
• Shaoxing Rice Wine (1 tbsp) – Enhances overall flavor; dry sherry can replace it if needed.
• Light Soy Sauce (1 tsp) – Adds umami richness to your filling.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Binds and helps achieve crispiness when frying.
• Sesame Oil (½ tsp) – Provides a nutty aroma enhancing overall flavor.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Brightens and enhances flavors.
• Ground White Pepper (¼ tsp) – Offers a subtle spice kick.
• Sugar (1 pinch) – Balances the savory elements beautifully.

For Cooking
• Neutral Cooking Oil – Essential amount for deep-frying, creating that perfect golden-brown texture.

For Dipping (optional)
• Dipping Sauces – Choose from chili oil for heat, chili garlic sauce for a bolder flavor, or sweet chili sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Let your imagination run wild with the fried wontons recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite fillings!

How to Make Fried Wontons

Thaw Wrappers: If your wonton wrappers are frozen, take them out and thaw them overnight in the fridge. This helps retain moisture and ensures they’re pliable for folding.
Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, shrimp, scallions, ginger, water, and all seasonings. Stir in one direction until everything is well mixed, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully.
Prepare Wrappers: Moisten two adjacent sides of a wonton wrapper with water. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center, fold to create a triangle, and pinch the edges to seal tightly, trapping minimal air.
Shape Wontons: Dab a bit of water on one corner of the triangle, then fold the opposite corner over, pinching it to secure. This gives your wonton its signature shape.
Fry (Deep-fry option): Heat oil in a wok or pot to 350°F (180°C). Carefully place the wontons in the hot oil and fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden-brown and crispy.
Air-fry option: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the wontons with oil and lay them in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, flip, and then air-fry for an additional 2 minutes until crispy.
Serve: Enjoy your delicious fried wontons hot, paired with your preferred dipping sauces for that extra burst of flavor.

Optional: Serve with a side of homemade sweet chili sauce for a delightful kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Fried Wontons

Seal Tightly: Ensure wontons are sealed tightly to prevent bursting during frying; air pockets can cause fry-time mishaps.
Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent frying temperature of around 350°F (180°C). If oil is too hot, your wontons might burn quickly.
Storage Solutions: Store cooked wontons in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the best crispiness when reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave.
Freezing Method: Uncooked wontons can be frozen for up to 3 months. Fry them from frozen without thawing for best results.
Filling Variety: Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients! Try different meats, vegetables, or herbs to create your custom fried wontons recipe that everyone will love.

What to Serve with Fried Wontons Recipe?

Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides and pairings that enhance the delightful crunch of your wontons.

Savory Hot and Sour Soup: A balance of flavors complements the crispy wontons, providing a warm, comforting, and zesty contrast. The broth is aromatic and soothing, perfect for cozy meals.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: This light and crisp salad made with fresh cucumbers and a tangy dressing introduces a refreshing crunch, making it an ideal counterpoint to the fried wontons’ richness.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy rice helps soak up flavorful sauces you might serve with the wontons. It also provides a neutral base, allowing the wontons to shine as the star of the meal.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Offering the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this dipping sauce beautifully enhances the wontons, adding a punch of flavor that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in this delightful treat. Its creamy coconut milk and sweet mango slice create a harmonious finish to your meal, ensuring a symphony of flavors throughout your dining experience.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, herbal iced tea cleanses the palate and complements the savory profile of the wontons, creating an overall delightful dining experience.

Fried Wontons Recipe Variations

Enjoy making these crispy treats even more delightful by exploring these tempting twists!

Vegetarian: Use a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots for a delicious plant-based filling that packs a flavor punch.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the filling for a delightful heat that enhances the savory mix.
Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for an aromatic layer of flavor that lifts each bite.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese or shredded cheese for a creamy, rich filling that melts beautifully upon cooking.
Gluten-Free: Opt for rice flour-based wrappers to create a gluten-free version of these flavorful bites without losing any crunch.
Savory Mushroom: Swap out the meat entirely for sautéed mushrooms combined with garlic and green onions, creating an umami-loving filling that’s sure to please.
Tropical Flavor: Add diced pineapple to your meat filling to introduce a sweet and tangy twist that works wonderfully in every bite.
Cashew Crunch: Fold in chopped cashews or peanuts for an extra crunchy texture that takes your wontons to the next level!

How to Store and Freeze Fried Wontons

Fridge: Store cooked fried wontons in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For optimal crispiness when reheating, use the oven to warm them up.
Freezer: Uncooked wontons can be frozen for up to 3 months. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: Reheat cooked fried wontons in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they regain their desirable crispy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can assemble the wontons and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.

Fried Wontons Recipe FAQs

What kind of wonton wrappers should I use for this fried wontons recipe?
I recommend using fresh wonton wrappers from the refrigerated section for the best texture. Look for wrappers that are pliable and free of dark spots; they provide that perfect canvas for your savory fillings!

How long can I store cooked fried wontons in the fridge?
You can store cooked fried wontons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture rather than using a microwave.

Can I freeze uncooked wontons?
Absolutely! Uncooked wontons can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed plastic bag. You can fry them straight from frozen without thawing for the best results.

What if my wontons burst while frying?
If you find that your wontons are bursting during frying, it could be due to not sealing them tightly or frying at too high a temperature. Make sure to press down the edges firmly to eliminate air pockets when you’re sealing them. Always try to maintain the frying temperature around 350°F (180°C) for optimal frying.

Are these fried wontons gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this fried wontons recipe gluten-free! Just use rice flour-based wonton wrappers instead of traditional wheat-based ones. This way, you can enjoy the crunchy goodness without worrying about gluten sensitivities!

What can I do with leftover filling?
If you have any leftover filling, it can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can use it to stuff bell peppers, zucchini, or even make a delicious stir-fry! Just remember to cook it thoroughly if using in other dishes.