Collard Green Wontons Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 orange bell pepper, chopped
• 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh garlic
• 1 tablespoon greens seasoning (e.g., Concord Fresh Express Greens & Kale Southern Style Seasoning Mix)
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 package wonton wrappers
• Oil for frying

Directions

Step 1: Heat grapeseed oil in a wok over medium heat. Add green onions, red bell pepper, and orange bell pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add chopped collard greens, garlic, and greens seasoning. Cook while stirring for 10 minutes until the greens have wilted. Once done, remove from heat and allow to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Gradually mix in the cooled greens mixture, a little at a time, until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of the greens mixture in the center.

Step 6: Moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper by dipping your finger into a small bowl of water. Fold the wrapper into a triangle shape and press the edges tightly to seal the wonton.

Step 7: Repeat the process with the remaining wonton wrappers and filling.

Step 8: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350F (175C). Fry the wontons in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

Step 9: Once fried, remove the wontons and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Collard Green Wontons bring together two distinct culinary traditions in a deliciously crispy appetizer. This unique dish combines the earthy, hearty flavor of Southern collard greens with the delicate, crispy texture of Asian wontons. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, these wontons make an exciting and flavorful treat for any gathering. But where did this fusion originate, and how do regional variations play a role in its evolution? Lets dive deeper into the history, regional influences, and intriguing facts about this fusion dish.

History of Collard Green Wontons

Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, deeply rooted in African-American culinary traditions. They are often prepared as a side dish, slow-cooked with ham hocks or smoked turkey for added flavor. On the other hand, wontons have a long history in Chinese cuisine, where they have been enjoyed for centuries as both a savory snack and a meal. The fusion of these two iconic dishes likely emerged in the 21st century, where cultural exchange and globalization led chefs to experiment with cross-cultural flavors. The creation of Collard Green Wontons blends these rich culinary traditions, bringing Southern comfort food into the realm of Asian street food. Today, this dish is enjoyed as an appetizer or snack in both casual gatherings and more formal settings.

Regional Variations of Collard Green Wontons

While the concept of wontons is a common feature across various Asian cuisines, the use of collard greens is distinctly Southern. The greens in the filling offer a unique, slightly bitter contrast to the rich cream cheese and seasoning, which is a defining feature of the dish. In the Southern United States, greens are often seasoned with smoked meats, but in this fusion recipe, they are paired with a more neutral, creamy filling to balance the bitterness. The versatility of collard greens also means they can be swapped out for other leafy greens, such as kale or mustard greens, depending on regional preferences or available ingredients.

How Collard Green Wontons Differ from Similar Dishes

While there are many varieties of dumplings and fried wontons in both Southern and Asian cuisines, what sets Collard Green Wontons apart is their distinct Southern twist. Traditional wontons often feature ground meats like pork, shrimp, or chicken as the filling. Collard Green Wontons, however, replace meat with the earthy flavor of greens, making the dish lighter and perfect for vegetarians or those seeking a different flavor profile. Moreover, the addition of cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that contrasts with the crispy wonton wrapper, offering a delightful mouthfeel not commonly found in traditional Asian dumplings.

Where to Serve Collard Green Wontons

Collard Green Wontons are perfect for any occasion that calls for appetizers or finger foods. They are often served as an appetizer at dinner parties, family gatherings, or even casual potlucks. Their fusion nature makes them an excellent choice for multicultural events where guests appreciate trying new and inventive dishes. They are also a popular choice for game days, as their small size and crispy texture make them ideal for snacking. The contrast of Southern ingredients with Asian preparation methods offers a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight anyone with an adventurous palate.

Interesting Facts About Collard Green Wontons

• Healthier than traditional fried wontons: Collard Green Wontons offer a healthier alternative to the typical meat-filled wontons, thanks to the nutrient-rich collard greens, which are high in fiber and vitamins.
• Southern heritage: Collard greens have been a part of African-American cuisine for centuries, often eaten with cornbread or as a side to smoked meats, making them a staple of Southern comfort food.
• Wonton wrappers are versatile: While typically used for savory fillings, wonton wrappers can also be used to create sweet treats, showing the adaptability of this Asian culinary staple.
• Perfect for freezing: Collard Green Wontons can be made in bulk and frozen for later use, making them a great make-ahead option for busy hosts.

Collard Green Wontons stand as a testament to the creativity and adaptability of modern fusion cuisine, bringing together flavors from two distinct culinary worlds to create something truly unique. Whether youre serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these wontons are sure to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ about Collard Green Wontons Recipe