Description
Crispy jalapeño popper wontons blend Mexican and Chinese culinary traditions into one irresistible appetizer. Creamy cheese and spicy peppers nestle inside golden-brown wrappers, promising a delightful bite you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 20 wonton wrappers
- 2 jalapenos, finely diced (adjust for spice level)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for sealing)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
- Dipping sauce (ranch or sweet chili sauce recommended)
Instructions
- Blend Filling: Combine cream cheese, cheddar, jalapenos, bacon, garlic powder, and onion powder into a smooth, flavor-packed mixture that promises a spicy kick.
- Wrapper Assembly: Position wonton wrappers and strategically place a dollop of jalapeno mixture in the center of each, allowing ample space for sealing.
- Sealing Technique: Dampen wrapper edges with water, then craft either a triangular shape or gathered pocket, pressing edges firmly to create an impenetrable seal that locks in the zesty filling.
- Cooking Method: Choose between deep-frying at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy, or bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet, rotating midway to achieve uniform crispness. For baking, lightly mist wontons with cooking spray to enhance browning.
- Serving Suggestion: Plate the sizzling wontons immediately, accompanied by cooling ranch, tangy blue cheese, or fiery buffalo sauce to complement the appetizer’s bold flavor profile.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Wisely: Control jalapeno heat by removing seeds and membranes for milder flavor, or keep them intact for maximum intensity. Wear gloves when handling peppers to prevent skin irritation.
- Seal Technique Matters: Press wonton edges firmly and avoid overfilling to prevent bursting during cooking. Use a fork’s edges to create a decorative crimped seal that locks in delicious filling.
- Oil Temperature Critical: Maintain consistent 350°F oil temperature for even golden-brown crispiness. Use a digital thermometer for precise monitoring to prevent burning or undercooked centers.
- Dietary Modification Options: Substitute cream cheese with low-fat versions or dairy-free alternatives for lighter versions. Replace bacon with crispy turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits to accommodate different dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 21
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg