Cream Cheese Shrimp Wontons

Introduction

These delightful Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are an irresistible combination of creamy, savory filling wrapped in crispy wonton skins. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

225 g cream cheese, softened
120 g cooked shrimp, finely chopped (or whole small shrimp)
2 green onions, finely chopped
2.5 g garlic powder
2.5 ml soy sauce
Wonton wrappers
Oil for frying

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 wontons

These wontons not only boast a delicious filling but also offer a fun cooking experience. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a cozy snack at home, they are sure to please. Enjoy making these crispy, flavorful bites!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped cooked shrimp, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Use a spatula or fork to mix everything well until the ingredients are uniformly distributed, forming a creamy and flavorful filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Wontons

Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean, dry surface. Spoon a small amount of the shrimp and cream cheese mixture into the center of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this will make it difficult to seal the wontons properly.

Step 3: Seal the Wontons

Moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper with a little water using your fingertips. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle. Press the edges together firmly to seal, ensuring no excess air is trapped inside. For a decorative touch, you may crimp the edges with a fork.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to medium-high heat. Ensure there’s enough oil to submerge the wontons partially. The ideal temperature for frying is around 180°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to check if available.

Step 5: Fry the Wontons

Carefully place a few wontons in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Monitor them closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried wontons from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb excess oil, leaving you with crispy, delectable wontons. Serve them warm, paired with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Filling Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or water chestnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Alternate Cooking Method

For a healthier option, consider baking the wontons. Brush them lightly with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp.

Handling Wonton Wrappers

Wonton wrappers can dry out quickly. Keep the unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from becoming brittle while you work.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover wontons, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply bake or fry again until crispy.

Cook techniques

Mixing Ingredients

Combine cream cheese, cooked shrimp, green onions, garlic powder, and soy sauce in a bowl. Ensure an even mixture for a consistent filling.

Wrapping Wontons

Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of a wonton wrapper. Moisten edges with water, fold over, and press to seal, making sure to remove air.

Frying Wontons

Heat oil to medium-high in a deep pan or fryer. Fry a few wontons at a time, turning until golden brown and crispy for best results.

Draining Wontons

Use a slotted spoon to remove wontons from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with soy sauce or preferred dipping sauces for enhanced flavor.

FAQ

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can use fresh shrimp but make sure to cook them thoroughly before mixing them into the filling.

Can I bake the wontons instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the wontons at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, brushing them with a little oil for crispiness.

How can I store leftover wontons?

Store cooked wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What dipping sauces pair well with shrimp and cream cheese wontons?

Soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a combination of soy sauce and rice vinegar make great dipping sauces.

Can I freeze wontons before frying?

Yes, you can freeze assembled but uncooked wontons on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for later use. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are a deliciously satisfying treat that brings together the creamy richness of cream cheese and the savory flavor of shrimp, all wrapped in a crispy shell. They make for an excellent appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a tasty bite, these wontons are sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combinations

Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons

Substitute shrimp with crab meat for a different seafood twist that still maintains that creamy texture.

Vegetable and Cream Cheese Wontons

Instead of seafood, fill wontons with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and carrots, combined with cream cheese for a vegetarian option.

Spicy Shrimp Wontons

Add a splash of sriracha or chili paste to the cream cheese and shrimp mixture for a spicy kick that seafood lovers will enjoy.

Buffalo Chicken Wontons

Swap out shrimp for shredded buffalo chicken, mixing with cream cheese for a spicy, savory snack that’s perfect for game day.

Cheesy Spinach Wontons

Combine spinach, cream cheese, and a blend of different cheeses for a rich and cheesy filling that goes well with dipping sauces.