Fruity wontons are a sweet and delicious dessert that combines the crispiness of deep-fried wonton wrappers with the sweetness of fruit and cream cheese filling. The recipe is typically made by filling wonton wrappers with a mixture of cream cheese, fruit, and sugar, before deep-frying until crispy and golden brown. The origins of the recipe are uncertain, but it is likely to have originated in China, where wontons are a popular food item that can be served as a savory or sweet dish. Fruity wontons have since become popular in many Asian fusion restaurants and can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack. Today, the recipe can be found in many cookbooks and online recipe sources, often with variations to suit individual tastes and preferences.
For the filling, finely chop the dried mixed fruit and put it in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the honey, mix thoroughly until the fruit is coated.
Spread out the wonton wrappers on a chopping board or work surface. Top each wrapper with a teaspoon of the dried fruit and honey mixture.
Moisten the edges of each wonton wrapper with a little water, then fold up to enclose the filling. Pinch the edges together at the top to seal.
Fill the large deep pan with oil until one third full. Heat the oil until a cube of white bread dropped in takes 30 seconds to brown. Add 4 wontons. Deep fry for 1-11/2 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Keep warm. Fry remaining wontons in the same way. Dust with icing sugar and serve warm.
If preferred replace the dried mixed fruit with your own combination of dried fruit, such as dried apricots, prunes and sultanas.
These fruity wontons make an excellent finale to any oriental meal. For the main course serve a mushroom and prawn stir-fry with steamed rice noodles.
Wonton wrappers are sold in the oriental food section of most supermarkets. If you can't find any, use ready-made filo pastry and cut into 10cm/4in square before using.
