Hand-Folded Crab Wontons from P.F. Chang's feature tender crab meat blended with fresh herbs and spices, encased in delicate, crispy wonton wrappers, delivering a savory and satisfying appetizer with a golden, crunchy exterior.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl (for water or egg wash)
- Sheet pan or tray
- Damp towel (to cover wrappers)
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 4 oz (115g) lump crab meat
- 2 oz (55g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon green onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 12-16 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Water or 1 beaten egg (for sealing wrappers)
- Optional: chives or extra green onion (for garnish)
Fresh lump crab meat is key to achieving the tender texture and authentic seafood flavor in these wontons, so choose high-quality crab for the best results. Softened cream cheese helps bind the filling while adding a creamy contrast to the savory spices of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Wonton wrappers should be kept covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out during preparation. Use water or a beaten egg to effectively seal the edges of the wontons, ensuring they stay intact during frying in hot vegetable oil. You can replicate the satisfying crunch and delicate flavor of Hand-Folded Crab Wontons from P.F. Chang's by following these ingredient tips closely.
Instructions
- Combine crab meat, cream cheese, green onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon until well blended.
- Place a wonton wrapper on the cutting board.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of filling onto the center of the wrapper.
- Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water or egg wash using your finger.
- Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, pressing out air and sealing edges firmly.
- Optionally, bring the two opposite corners together and press to seal for a traditional wonton shape.
- Place folded wontons beneath a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower wontons into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
- Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy (2-3 minutes).
- Remove wontons with the strainer, placing them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chives or extra green onion if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Hand-Folded Crab Wontons from P.F. Chang's copycat menu combine rich lump crab meat with cream cheese and aromatic seasonings wrapped in thin wonton skins, creating a crispy and flavorful appetizer. If lump crab meat is unavailable, you can substitute with imitation crab or finely chopped cooked shrimp for a similar texture and taste. Use water as a sealant for a crispier finish or beaten egg wash if you prefer a stronger seal to prevent filling leakage during frying. Wonton wrappers should be kept covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out while assembling. Your deep frying temperature should be maintained around 350degF (175degC) to ensure a golden exterior without absorbing excessive oil.
Tips
Ensure the crab meat is well-drained to avoid watery filling that can make wontons soggy. Use water or egg wash sparingly to seal the wrappers, as too much moisture can cause them to open during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) for even cooking and prevent greasy wontons. Your wontons should be drained on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crisp and delicious.
Nutritions
Hand-Folded Crab Wontons from P.F. Chang's offer a balanced combination of protein and healthy fats, primarily sourced from lump crab meat and cream cheese. Each wonton contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits from garlic and ginger, enhanced by the heart-healthy properties of sesame oil. The soy sauce and green onion contribute small amounts of sodium and vitamins, while the crispy fried wonton wrapper adds carbohydrates and fat from the vegetable oil. When enjoying these appetizers, you should be mindful of the calorie density due to frying, making them best suited for occasional indulgence within a balanced diet.
Storage
Store any leftover Hand-Folded Crab Wontons in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For best texture, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness rather than using a microwave. If you plan to store them longer, freeze the wontons on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, allowing you to enjoy your savory appetizer at your convenience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute lump crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different seafood flavor. Replace cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone cheese to create a lighter, creamier filling. Instead of deep frying, try baking the wontons at 400degF (200degC) for 12-15 minutes to achieve a crispy texture with less oil. For added spice, mix a dash of Sriracha or chili flakes into the filling before folding the wrappers.
Allergies
Hand-Folded Crab Wontons contain shellfish (crab meat) and soy (soy sauce), which are common allergens that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The wonton wrappers often contain wheat gluten, posing risks for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Be cautious if you have allergies to dairy, as cream cheese is used in the filling, and ensure you inform your server about your specific dietary restrictions to avoid cross-contact.
Why this recipe?
Hand-Folded Crab Wontons from P.F. Chang's restaurant are loved for their crispy texture combined with a flavorful crab and cream cheese filling that offers a perfect balance of savory and creamy. This dish features quality ingredients and a delicate folding technique that enhances every bite with a satisfying crunch and rich taste. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors at home while controlling freshness and customization to suit Your preferences. The unique combination of textures and flavors makes this appetizer a standout choice for seafood lovers seeking a gourmet experience.