Fried Shrimp Wontons are a beloved Asian appetizer that effortlessly combines a crispy, golden exterior with a luscious, savory shrimp filling. Their irresistible crunch paired with the juicy sweetness of shrimp makes them a go-to snack for family dinners, festive parties, and casual get-togethers alike. What makes these wontons particularly special is their simplicity—just a handful of fresh ingredients come together quickly to create a dish that tastes like it took hours to master. The delicate shrimp mixed with aromatic garlic and classic Asian seasonings wrapped in thin, crisp wonton skins offers an unforgettable balance of texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy finger food to impress guests or a quick bite to satisfy cravings, these fried shrimp wontons hit the mark perfectly.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 250 grams fresh shrimp, peeled and finely chopped
• 30 wonton wrappers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Cooking oil for deep frying
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
• Optional: sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping

Directions

• In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well until evenly combined.
• Place about 1 teaspoon of shrimp filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
• Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold into a triangle or desired shape, and press edges firmly to seal.
• Heat cooking oil in a deep fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry wontons in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.
• Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve hot with dipping sauces.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 60-80 calories per wonton
• Protein: 4-6 grams per wonton
• Fat: 3-5 grams per wonton (mostly from frying oil)
• Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams per wonton
• Sodium: 200-300 mg per wonton (varies with soy sauce amount)

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Fried Shrimp Wontons recipe stands out because it showcases fresh shrimp as the star ingredient, elevating a simple appetizer into something truly special. Unlike many wonton recipes that use ground pork or vegetable fillings, these wontons emphasize the delicate sweetness and tender bite of shrimp, enhanced by a few classic Asian seasonings like soy sauce and sesame oil. The result is a dish that feels light yet richly flavorful.

The crispy, golden wonton wrappers provide a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite both crunchy and juicy. The straightforward seasoning allows the shrimp’s natural flavor to shine while adding just enough umami and aroma to keep it interesting. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the filling with added spices or fresh herbs if desired, or experiment with dipping sauces for different flavor profiles.

The quick frying method means you can prepare a large batch in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, entertaining guests, or quick snacks. It’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels and produces consistently delicious results.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and maintenance. It is low in calories but rich in vital nutrients such as iodine, which supports thyroid function; vitamin B12, important for nerve and brain health; and omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory and heart health benefits. Using fresh shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor, making the dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Garlic contributes not only a distinctive pungent flavor but also offers health benefits including immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties. Its compounds have been studied for their antioxidant effects, helping reduce oxidative stress in the body.

Soy sauce brings umami depth and subtle saltiness, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the shrimp. It also contains trace amounts of antioxidants and minerals.

Sesame oil, though used sparingly, imparts a nutty aroma and flavor, along with healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.

Wonton wrappers are typically made from wheat flour and water, offering a light carbohydrate source that crisps beautifully when fried. The addition of cornstarch in the filling keeps the shrimp mixture tender and helps bind moisture, ensuring the filling stays juicy and doesn’t dry out during cooking.

Together, these ingredients combine to create a balanced appetizer that provides protein, healthy fats, and energy, while remaining light and flavorful.

Cooking Tips

To achieve perfectly crispy wontons, maintaining the correct oil temperature is key. Using a thermometer helps keep the oil steady between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). If the oil is too cool, the wontons will absorb too much oil and become greasy; too hot, and they might burn on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.

When sealing the wontons, make sure to wet the edges completely but not excessively. This ensures a strong seal that prevents the filling from leaking. Avoid overfilling, as this can make it difficult to seal and may cause the wontons to burst while frying.

Wontons can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, covered loosely with plastic wrap. This makes them convenient for preparing in advance and frying fresh when ready.

Fry the wontons in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the oil temperature to drop and result in soggy, oily wrappers.

For a healthier twist, air frying the wontons at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes can yield a crispy result with significantly less oil.

Serving Suggestions

Fried shrimp wontons shine when served fresh and hot, accompanied by dipping sauces that complement their delicate seafood flavor. Sweet chili sauce provides a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, while soy sauce adds a salty umami kick. A tangy vinegar-based dip or a spicy garlic mayo can also pair beautifully.

For a fuller appetizer platter, consider serving alongside other Asian-inspired bites such as vegetable spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or edamame. A crisp cucumber salad or a light miso soup pairs well to balance the richness of the fried wontons.

They are perfect finger foods for parties, casual gatherings, or as a starter for an Asian-themed meal. Garnishing with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds enhances both appearance and flavor.

These wontons are also an excellent quick snack or part of a back-to-school meal plan for college students, providing a satisfying, flavorful bite without complex preparation.

Conclusion

Fried Shrimp Wontons are a classic appetizer that combines simplicity, flavor, and texture in a way that pleases any crowd. Their crispy exterior and savory, tender shrimp filling make them irresistible and easy to enjoy. This recipe highlights wholesome, fresh ingredients such as shrimp and garlic, delivering nutritional benefits alongside delicious taste.

With straightforward preparation and helpful cooking tips, you can easily master this dish at home, whether for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or part of a larger meal. Its adaptability and speed make it a great choice for busy individuals seeking tasty, satisfying food without hassle.

Perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or college back-to-school recipes, these wontons offer a delightful, crunchy seafood experience that keeps people coming back for more.