Introduction

Spicy wontons in chili sauce, a dish inspired by Din Tai Fung, is a delightful blend of flavors that excites the palate. These tender dumplings are filled with a savory mixture and tossed in a vibrant chili sauce, creating a perfect balance of heat and flavor. This recipe showcases the art of making wontons from scratch, allowing you to impress your family and friends with this delectable treat.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Wonton wrappers – 30 pieces
Ground pork – 250g
Shrimp, finely chopped – 100g
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Ginger, grated – 1 teaspoon
Spring onions, chopped – 2
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Chili oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon
White pepper – ¼ teaspoon

For the chili sauce:
Chili oil – 4 tablespoons
Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
Vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Sugar – 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced – 1 clove
Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon
Chopped coriander (cilantro) – for garnish

Prep Time

Prep time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes. This will involve preparing the filling, wrapping the wontons, and making the chili sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 10 minutes, as the wontons need only to be boiled and then tossed in the sauce. The total time for the entire process is about 40 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it a great option for a small gathering or family meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Wonton Filling

Start by combining ground pork, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Wrap the Wontons

Take a wonton wrapper and place about a teaspoon of filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over to form a triangle, and press to seal. Then, bring the two corners of the triangle together and pinch to form the wonton shape. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Cook the Wontons

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in the wontons and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pot and set aside.

Prepare the Chilli Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat oil and add minced garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Sauté until fragrant. Then, add soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a couple of minutes.

Combine Wontons with Sauce

Drizzle the prepared chili sauce over the cooked wontons. Toss gently to ensure each wonton is coated with the sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the spicy wontons to a serving platter or individual bowls. Top with additional chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro for extra flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Wonton Wrapper Substitutes

If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you may use dumpling wrappers or even homemade pasta sheets cut into appropriate sizes.

Adjusting Spice Levels

Feel free to adjust the amount of dried red chilies to suit your heat preference. You can also use less chili paste if you prefer a milder flavor.

Storage Instructions

The wontons can be made ahead of time and stored uncooked in the freezer. Just lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag.

Serving Suggestions

These wontons pair well with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spiciness.

Alternative Proteins

For a different flavor, you can substitute ground pork with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Wonton Wrappers

To ensure the perfect wonton, use fresh or thawed wonton wrappers. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out while you fill them.

Filling the Wontons

Place a small amount of filling in the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause them to burst during cooking.

Sealing the Wontons

Moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper with water to help seal them securely. Fold and pinch the edges tightly to prevent any leakage.

Cooking the Wontons

You can either boil or steam the wontons. Boiling will give them a softer texture, while steaming retains their shape and makes them chewier.

Making the Chilli Sauce

Combine soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil to make a flavorful sauce. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by using more or less chili oil.

Serving Tips

Serve wontons hot, drizzled with the chilli sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen wonton wrappers?

Yes, frozen wonton wrappers can be used. Just ensure they are properly thawed before filling.

What can I substitute for chili oil?

You can substitute chili oil with sesame oil mixed with a bit of crushed red pepper for a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover cooked wontons?

Store any leftover cooked wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Can I freeze wontons after they are filled?

Yes, you can freeze filled but uncooked wontons. Place them on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag.

What type of meat can I use for the filling?

You can use ground pork, chicken, shrimp, or even a mix of these for a flavorful filling.

Conclusion

The Spicy Wontons in Chilli Sauce is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. The combination of tender wontons filled with savory ingredients and the spicy, fragrant chilli sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of wontons but also allows for customization based on personal preferences. It’s a great dish for sharing with family and friends, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or cozy dinner at home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Dumplings

These can be a delicious vegetarian option filled with a mix of seasonal vegetables and served with a soy or dipping sauce.

Chilli Oil Noodles

Pair your wontons with spicy chilli oil noodles for a fiery and comforting meal that highlights the flavors of both dishes.

Mapo Tofu

This classic Sichuan dish can complement the wontons, bringing a rich and spicy flavor profile that fans of heat will enjoy.

Chinese Scallion Pancakes

Crispy scallion pancakes offer a delightful contrast in texture and can be served alongside the wontons for a satisfying appetizer.

Peking Duck

For a special occasion, consider serving the wontons with Peking duck, adding an element of luxury and complex flavors to the meal.

Hot and Sour Soup

A warm bowl of hot and sour soup can be a great starter that pairs well with the wontons, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Sesame Spinach Salad

A light and refreshing sesame spinach salad can provide a balance to the rich flavors of the wontons and sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.