Crispy Pan-Fried Wontons with Sesame Dipping Sauce
These pan-fried wontons have crisp golden bottoms, tender steamed wrappers, and a savory sesame dipping sauce with a hint of chili heat. They come together quickly on the stovetop for an easy appetizer, snack, or light meal.
Servings2 Portions
Prep Time10 Mins
Cook Time10 Mins
Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
2
- wontons12 pieces
- garlic1 clove
- scallion1 tbsp
- neutral oil1 tbsp
- water0.3 cup
- sesame paste1 tbsp
- hot water2 tbsp
- light soy sauce2 tsp
- chili oil2 tsp
- sugar0.5 tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
01
Heat a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the neutral oil, then arrange the wontons in a single layer with a little space between them. Cook until the bottoms are golden and crisp, about 2 to 3 minutes.
02
Carefully pour the water into the hot pan, using the lid to help shield against splattering. Cover immediately, reduce the heat slightly if needed to maintain a steady steam, and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the wontons are heated through and most of the water has evaporated.
03
While the wontons steam, make the dipping sauce. Whisk the sesame paste with the hot water until smooth and pourable. Stir in the light soy sauce, chili oil, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped scallion.
04
Uncover the pan and let any remaining moisture cook off briefly so the bottoms stay crisp. Transfer the wontons to a plate and serve hot with the sesame dipping sauce.
Chef's Tips
Use a nonstick skillet and keep the wontons in one layer so they brown evenly. Add the water carefully because the hot oil may splatter. Chinese sesame paste gives the sauce a deeper roasted flavor, but tahini can be used in a pinch. Store leftover cooked wontons separately from the sauce and reheat them in a skillet to restore some crispness.
