Crab Rangoon

Crab Rangoon is a popular appetizer in American Chinese cuisine. It consists of a filling made with cream cheese, crab meat, and various seasonings, which is then wrapped in a wonton wrapper and deep-fried until crispy. Despite its name, Crab Rangoon is not traditionally found in Burmese cuisine and is believed to have been invented in the United States.

History

The origins of Crab Rangoon are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have been created in the mid-20th century. One popular theory is that it was invented by Victor Bergeron, the founder of the Trader Vic's restaurant chain, in the 1950s. The dish quickly gained popularity and became a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Crab Rangoon include:

• Cream cheese
• Crab meat (often imitation crab is used)
• Garlic
• Green onions
• Soy sauce
• Wonton wrappers

Preparation

To prepare Crab Rangoon, the filling is made by combining cream cheese, crab meat, garlic, green onions, and soy sauce. This mixture is then placed in the center of a wonton wrapper. The edges of the wrapper are moistened with water, and the wrapper is folded over the filling to form a triangle or a more intricate shape. The filled wontons are then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

Serving

Crab Rangoon is typically served as an appetizer, often accompanied by a dipping sauce such as sweet and sour sauce, plum sauce, or duck sauce. It is commonly found on the menu of Chinese-American restaurants and is also a popular item at buffets and takeout establishments.

Variations

While the traditional filling for Crab Rangoon includes cream cheese and crab meat, there are several variations of the dish. Some versions may include additional ingredients such as:

• Water chestnuts
• Scallions
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce

Cultural Impact

Crab Rangoon has become a beloved dish in American Chinese cuisine and is often featured in fusion cuisine as well. Its popularity has led to various adaptations and interpretations in different culinary contexts.

See also

• Chinese cuisine
• American Chinese cuisine
• Appetizer
• Wonton
• Deep frying