Introduction:
Wontons are a versatile dish that can be grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The flat cooktop ensures a crisp golden exterior while locking in the savory, juicy filling. Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or a part of your main meal with dipping sauces for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground pork or chicken
- 1/4 cup finely chopped shrimp (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch
For the Wontons:
- 20-25 square wonton wrappers
- Small bowl of water (for sealing the edges)
For Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp chili oil
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine ground pork or chicken, shrimp (if using), soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, green onions, white pepper, and cornstarch.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
- Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing firmly to seal the edges and remove any air.
- Optionally, bring the two outer corners of the triangle together and seal them with water to create a traditional wonton shape.
Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
- Grease the flat cooktop lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Wontons
- Place the wontons on the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the wrappers are golden brown and crispy.
- Move the wontons to the cooler outer zone to keep warm while finishing the rest.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, honey, and minced garlic.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve alongside the grilled wontons.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Wontons
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid bursting during cooking.
- Even Cooking: Place wontons in a single layer with space between them to cook evenly.
- Custom Wrappers: Use round wrappers if you prefer dumpling-style wontons.
- Heat Zones: Use medium heat to crisp the wrappers without burning them.
Variations
- Vegetarian Wontons: Replace meat with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or vegetables like cabbage and carrots.
- Cheesy Wontons: Add a pinch of cream cheese to the filling for a creamy twist.
- Spicy Wontons: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the filling for extra heat.
- Sweet Wontons: Use a filling of mashed sweet potato or cream cheese with sugar for a dessert option.
- Seafood Wontons: Use crab or finely chopped scallops as the primary filling.
Pairings
- Sides: Serve with fried rice, Asian-style slaw, or grilled bok choy.
- Drinks: Pair with green tea, a light beer, or sparkling water with lime.
- Sauces: Offer additional sauces like hoisin, sweet chili, or soy sauce.
Conclusion
Grilling wontons on the Arteflame grill creates a crispy, golden wrapper and smoky flavor that takes this classic dish to the next level. Perfect for entertaining or a quick outdoor snack, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy.