Jalapeno Popper Wontons with Bacon Jam
Jalapeno Popper Wontons with Bacon Jam
Experience a delightful fusion of classic jalapeño popper flavors encased in crispy wonton wrappers, served with a homemade sweet and savory bacon jam. These bite-sized hot appetizers offer a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky notes. The cream cheese and cheddar filling, studded with tender jalapeños, becomes wonderfully molten when fried to a golden crisp. The accompanying bacon jam, slow-simmered with brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, adds a complex layer of sweetness and acidity that perfectly cuts through the richness. They are ideal for game days, parties, or any occasion where a crowd-pleasing appetizer is needed. Easy to prepare ahead of time, these wontons are sure to be a hit and elevate your appetizer game with their unique twist on a beloved classic.
- Preparation time
- 30 min
- Cooking time
- 15 min
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 30
Instructions
Prepare Bacon Jam
- 1Cook diced bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet. Set bacon aside.
- 2Add red onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3Return cooked bacon to the skillet. Add brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the jam has thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare Wontons
- 1In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, chopped green onion (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
- 2Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten all four edges of the wrapper.
- 3Fold the wonton wrapper into a triangle, pressing firmly around the filling to seal, ensuring no air is trapped. You can also bring all four corners to meet in the middle and pinch to seal, or fold like an envelope. Ensure edges are completely sealed to prevent leakage during frying.
- 4Repeat with remaining filling and wonton wrappers. Place prepared wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Fry Wontons
- 1Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 2Carefully place 4-5 wontons into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- 3Remove fried wontons with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 4Serve hot immediately with the prepared bacon jam on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 150 kcal
- Protein
- 4 g
- Fat
- 11 g
- Carbs
- 9 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
Tips
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling. Finely dice jalapeños for even distribution and heat.
- Monitor oil temperature closely; too low will make the wontons greasy, too high will burn them before the filling heats through.
- For best texture, serve wontons immediately after frying. The bacon jam can be made a day in advance and gently reheated.