Crispy Wontons

Name: Crispy Wontons
Yield: makes 30; serves 6
Ingredients: 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 6 ounces chopped shelled cooked shrimp or crabmeat, or 1 (6-ounce) can, rinsed and drained; 2 green onions, white and green parts, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 30 square wonton wrappers; 1 large egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water; Vegetable oil, for frying; Sweet and Sour Sauce (recipe follows); 1/2 cup apricot preserves; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hot chili sauce (optional); (makes about 3/4 cup)

December 9, 2011

As is the case in many small towns, the most exotic fare found in my county is the Chinese-American buffet. My son, Joe, just loves the one at China Blossom in Greenwood. The family farm, Pluto, is forty-eight miles from town, so it’s quite a commitment to make the round trip. Every so often for movie night, I make a pile of these crisp-fried, creamy, seafood-filled pouches for him and his pal Lola and we just stay out at Pluto.

Recipe notes

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Dulce de Leche

Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

Gochujang Turkey Sweet Potatoes

Fully loaded, meal-prep friendly, and ready to be dressed up, down, or sideways.