Fried Wontons in Portland: Top Spots to Savor this Crispy Delight

What Are Fried Wontons?

Fried wontons are a beloved appetizer in Chinese cuisine, consisting of seasoned fillings such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables wrapped in a thin, crispy wonton wrapper. The wrappers are typically deep-fried to a golden brown, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the juicy filling inside. Often served with dipping sauces such as sweet and sour or soy sauce, fried wontons are a great starter in any Chinese meal.

In Portland, fried wontons are popular at both traditional Chinese restaurants and fusion eateries that put a creative spin on this classic dish. Whether you're craving a crunchy snack or a savory appetizer, fried wontons never fail to satisfy.

Best Places for Fried Wontons in Portland

If you're on the hunt for the best fried wontons in Portland, there are plenty of places to satisfy your craving. From traditional Chinese spots to more modern takes on Asian fusion, here are some of the top spots to enjoy this crispy treat:

1. Chin's Kitchen

Chin's Kitchen is a Portland institution when it comes to Chinese food. Located in the heart of the city, their fried wontons are a must-try. These wontons come perfectly crispy on the outside and filled with a flavorful pork and shrimp mixture. The dipping sauce is a sweet and savory blend that enhances the wontons' taste, making them the perfect appetizer for any meal.

2. Ping's Cafe

If you're looking for a cozy, authentic Chinese restaurant with excellent fried wontons, Ping's Cafe should be on your list. The fried wontons here are crunchy and filled with a savory pork mixture. Pair them with the homemade sweet and sour sauce, and you’ve got yourself a dish that will keep you coming back for more.

3. The Dumpling & Wonton House

As the name suggests, The Dumpling & Wonton House specializes in these crispy Chinese delicacies. Located in Portland’s Chinatown, they offer an impressive array of wonton options, including their popular fried wontons. The wontons are freshly made, golden brown, and perfectly crunchy, with a filling that strikes the perfect balance between savory and juicy.

4. Pho Oregon

While Pho Oregon is known for its pho, they also serve an outstanding fried wonton appetizer. These wontons are stuffed with a blend of meats and spices and are crispy without being greasy. They come served with a tangy dipping sauce that complements their flavors beautifully. If you find yourself in the mood for pho but also want to enjoy fried wontons, Pho Oregon is a great place to visit.

5. Duck House Chinese Restaurant

Known for its traditional Chinese dishes, Duck House serves some of the best fried wontons in Portland. Their wontons are always crisp and golden, with a flavorful, well-seasoned filling. Whether you're eating in or ordering out, their fried wontons will never disappoint.

Why People Love Fried Wontons

Fried wontons have a special place in many people's hearts. Here’s why they’re so beloved:

1. The Crispy Crunch

The appeal of fried wontons largely comes from their crispy, golden exterior. When you bite into a well-made fried wonton, it’s hard to beat the satisfying crunch that comes with every bite. This texture is a huge part of their allure, as it contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful filling.

2. The Versatility of Fillings

One of the reasons fried wontons are so popular is because they can be filled with just about anything. From classic pork and shrimp to vegetable blends and even more inventive fillings, there’s a fried wonton for every taste. Their versatility allows for both traditional and more creative spins on this dish, which adds to its universal appeal.

3. Perfect for Sharing

Fried wontons are often served in bite-sized portions, making them an ideal appetizer for sharing. Whether you're dining with friends or family, these crispy morsels are a perfect choice for a communal dish. Their small size also makes them an excellent option for pairing with other dishes.

4. Easy to Pair with Sauces

Fried wontons are versatile enough to pair with a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you prefer the sweet tang of sweet and sour sauce, the savory richness of soy sauce, or the boldness of a spicy chili sauce, fried wontons are the perfect base to complement these flavors.

How to Choose the Best Fried Wontons

When selecting fried wontons, whether dining out or making them at home, consider the following factors to ensure you’re getting the best experience:

1. Look for Crispiness Without Grease

The best fried wontons should have a crispy texture without being overly greasy. If the wontons are soggy or oily, it’s likely that they were fried incorrectly. A light, golden brown color is usually a good indicator of the right level of crispiness.

2. Check for Freshness

Fried wontons should be freshly made, as they lose their crunch over time. If the wontons are sitting under a heat lamp for too long, they may become soggy or stale. Freshly prepared wontons will have a satisfying crunch that makes them stand out.

3. Consider the Filling

While the crispy wrapper is important, the filling is what gives fried wontons their flavor. Look for wontons with well-seasoned fillings—whether it’s classic pork and shrimp or something more innovative, the best fried wontons will have a balanced, flavorful filling that complements the crispy exterior.

Making Fried Wontons at Home

If you're interested in making your own fried wontons at home, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 package wonton wrappers
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/4 cup chopped shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped shrimp (if using), green onions, and soy sauce. Mix well.
2. Place a small amount of the filling in the center of each wonton wrapper.
3. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it into a triangle, sealing the edges tightly.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the wontons until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain the fried wontons on a paper towel and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.