The filling used in Asian-style fried wontons varies by region and personal taste. Traditionally the filling is some sort of meat, although vegetarian alternatives exist. Pork and shrimp are among the most popular meats used as wonton filling. They offer a rich and authentic flavor. These meats are typically seasoned with a variety of spices. Salt and garlic are also applied to accent the natural flavors. There are also some more exotic fillings to be found. Some fried wontons are filling with cream cheese and crab, better known as crab Rangoon. Many vendors offer their own unique fillings.
The deep-fried wonton is exceedingly popular in the United States and other western countries. They’ve become a quintessential appetizer in the many restaurants that serve Asian cuisine. Pork is the most common filling and the fillings are almost universally meat based. The fried wontons are served with dipping sauce and eaten as a finger food. Many different sauces are commonly used. Among these are plum sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and even hot mustard. Fried wontons are a sharp contrast to the traditional soup wonton and offer an interesting take on traditional cuisine.
Wonton strips are another way that deep fried wontons are enjoyed. These are deep fried strips of wonton wrapper that are served with dipping sauce. This offers a lighter alternative to the deep-fried wonton. The strips are popular appetizers and sides. This variant is mostly unheard of in the wonton’s native Asia. Most of these developments have taken place in American-based Asian restaurants. The dishes in these restaurants are often very different from traditional cultural fare.
The deep-fried wonton is an alluring blend of traditional Asian cuisine, and the hustle and bustle of modern American influences. They’re viable as a main course, a side dish, or an appetizer. These neat little balls of dough, not entirely unlike ravioli in concept, have found new ground in this new cooking style. Today millions enjoy deep-fried wontons all over the world for their distinctive flavor and satisfying crunch.
Do you want deep fried wontons in Toronto? Pick them up on your next visit to Toronto Pho, a Vietnamese-inspired blend of Asian foods.
