Homemade Crab Rangoon Recipe

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Crab Rangoon is a crispy, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that is a favorite at many Asian restaurants. These delightful wontons are filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, imitation crab, green onions, and seasonings, then fried to a beautiful golden brown. They are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a delicious snack to enjoy at home.

This recipe is easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients, yet the result is a restaurant-quality dish that pairs wonderfully with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect homemade Crab Rangoon that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 8 ounces imitation crab
  • 16 ounces (two 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 5 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Wrappers & Frying:

  • 1 package square wonton wrappers
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For Serving (Optional):

  • Sweet and sour sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Spicy chili sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Filling

  1. Open the package of imitation crab. If desired, rinse it quickly under running water and pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. Break the crab into small pieces and then shred it using your hands into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the green onions, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Add the softened cream cheese and mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and even filling.

Step 2: Assemble the Crab Rangoon

  1. Open the wonton wrappers, keeping them covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  2. Take one wonton wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of the crab-cream cheese mixture in the center.
  3. Using a spoon or your finger, lightly wet the edges of the wrapper with water to help seal it.
  4. Fold the wrapper in half diagonally to create a triangle.
  5. Gently press around the filling to remove air pockets and seal the edges.
  6. To create the classic Crab Rangoon shape, bring the two opposite corners together and pinch lightly, forming a small pouch.

Step 3: Fry the Crab Rangoon

  1. In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil over medium to medium-high heat.
  2. Test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is hot enough.
  3. Fry the Crab Rangoon in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
  4. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they turn a beautiful golden brown on both sides.
  5. Remove from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the Crab Rangoon cool for about 5-8 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy chili sauce.

Tips & Variations

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
  • Air Fryer Option: Lightly spray the assembled Crab Rangoon with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the Crab Rangoon on a baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
  • Alternative Fillings: Swap out imitation crab for real crab meat for a richer flavor, or add finely chopped shrimp for a seafood variation.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the Crab Rangoon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover Crab Rangoon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Arrange uncooked Crab Rangoon on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months and fried directly from frozen.
  • Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Crab Rangoon recipe delivers a crispy, creamy, and flavorful bite that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are making them for a family gathering, a party, or just a fun treat for yourself, these wontons are always a hit. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can enjoy this restaurant favorite from the comfort of your home.

Serve them fresh, paired with a delicious dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in minutes.

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