won ton recipes

Won tons, also known as wontons, are a type of Chinese dumpling that has been enjoyed for centuries. The name “won ton” translates to “swallowing clouds” in Cantonese, which is a nod to the light and airy texture of the dumplings. These bite-sized pockets of deliciousness have become a staple in Chinese cuisine and have gained popularity all over the world. In this article, we will explore the history of won tons, their various types, and some mouth-watering recipes to try at home.

The Origins of Won Tons

The exact origins of won tons are unclear, but they are believed to have originated in Northern China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It is said that a famous poet and statesman named Zongzi invented the dumplings as a way to feed the poor during a time of famine. The original won tons were made with a simple dough of flour and water, filled with minced pork and spices, and boiled in water.

As the popularity of won tons spread throughout China, different regions began to put their own spin on the dish. In the southern regions, such as Guangdong and Fujian, the dumplings were often served in a clear broth, while in the northern regions, they were served in a spicy sauce. In the Sichuan province, known for its bold and spicy flavors, the dumplings were filled with a mixture of pork and chili oil, creating a fiery and flavorful dish.

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The Evolution of Won Tons

As Chinese immigrants began to settle in different parts of the world, they brought their love for won tons with them. In the United States, won tons were introduced in the late 1800s by Chinese immigrants who worked on the railroads. They were often served in Chinese restaurants as a side dish or appetizer, but as their popularity grew, they became a main dish in their own right.

In the 1950s, a new type of won ton emerged in Hong Kong called “crispy won tons.” These were made by deep-frying the dumplings, giving them a crispy and crunchy texture. They were often served as a snack or appetizer and became a popular street food in Hong Kong.

In the 1970s, a new type of won ton called “Szechuan won tons” was created in the United States. These were made by deep-frying the dumplings and then tossing them in a spicy Szechuan sauce. This fusion dish became a hit and can still be found on many Chinese restaurant menus today.

The Different Types of Won Tons

Today, there are many different types of won tons, each with its own unique filling and cooking method. Here are some of the most popular types:

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• Traditional Won Tons: These are the original won tons that were created in Northern China. They are made with a simple dough of flour and water, filled with minced pork, and boiled in water. They are often served in a clear broth and garnished with green onions.
• Szechuan Won Tons: As mentioned earlier, these are deep-fried won tons tossed in a spicy Szechuan sauce. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a burst of spicy flavor.
• Crispy Won Tons: These are deep-fried won tons that are served as a snack or appetizer. They are often filled with a mixture of pork and vegetables and have a crispy and crunchy texture.
• Wonton Noodles: This is a popular dish in Hong Kong, where won tons are served in a bowl of egg noodles and broth. The won tons are usually filled with pork and shrimp and are served with a variety of toppings such as bok choy, green onions, and sesame seeds.
• Fried Wontons: These are similar to crispy won tons, but they are filled with a mixture of cream cheese and crab meat and then deep-fried. They are a popular appetizer in Chinese-American restaurants.

How to Make Won Tons at Home

While it may seem intimidating to make won tons at home, it is actually quite simple. Here is a basic recipe for traditional won tons:

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Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 package of wonton wrappers
• 1 beaten egg
• Water for sealing
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the ground pork, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
2. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and add a teaspoon of the pork mixture in the center.
3. Brush the edges of the wrapper with beaten egg and fold it in half to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal.
4. Bring the two corners of the triangle together and press to seal, creating a wonton shape.
5. Repeat with the remaining wonton wrappers and pork mixture.
6. In a pot of boiling water, add the wontons and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove the wontons from the water and place them in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.
8. Drain the wontons and place them in a bowl of hot broth. Garnish with green onions and serve.

There are endless variations of fillings for won tons, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

Health Benefits of Won Tons

Won tons may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here are some of the health benefits of won tons:

• Protein: Won tons are a good source of protein, with each dumpling containing about 6 grams. This makes them a great option for vegetarians who can fill them with tofu or other plant-based proteins.
• Low in Calories: Traditional won tons are boiled, making them a healthier option compared to deep-fried versions. One serving of boiled won tons contains only about 40 calories.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Won tons are usually filled with a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and green onions, which are all rich in vitamins and minerals. They also contain iron, calcium, and potassium.
• Low in Fat: Boiled won tons are low in fat, making them a healthier option compared to other fried or greasy foods.

Conclusion:

Won tons have come a long way since their humble beginnings in Northern China. They have evolved into a versatile and delicious dish that can be found in Chinese restaurants all over the world. Whether you prefer them boiled, fried, or in a soup, won tons are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So next time you’re craving some Chinese food, why not try making your own won tons at home? With this article as your guide, you’ll be a won ton-making pro in no time.