Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chile Relleno Wontons are a perfect blend of Mexican flavors and Asian-inspired seasoning. The warm Monterey Jack cheese pairs wonderfully with the heat from the chiles, while the crunchy wonton wrapper adds that satisfying bite. The Jalapeño Soy Sauce brings the perfect balance of heat, tang, and sweetness, making each bite an exciting explosion of flavors. Plus, these wontons are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for a party appetizer or a savory snack.

Ingredients

30 wonton wrappers
1 lb Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2 to 1 1/2-inch strips
Green chilies and hot green chiles, cut into strips
Oil, for frying
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 minced jalapeño
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Wontons: Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface. Place one strip of cheese and one strip of chili (green or hot, depending on your spice preference) onto each wrapper.
Seal the Wontons: Lightly moisten the edges of the wonton wrapper with water. Fold the wrapper over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal completely. Make sure there are no gaps, as you don’t want the cheese to leak out during frying. Let the sealed wontons rest for a few minutes.
Fry the Wontons: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry each wonton for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced jalapeño, honey, and sesame oil. Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Serve the crispy wontons hot, accompanied by the jalapeño-soy dipping sauce. You can also pair them with queso, salsa, or ranch dressing for extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 15 (2 wontons per serving)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: If Monterey Jack isn’t available, you can substitute it with other melty cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Chiles: Adjust the level of heat by using more or less hot green chiles, or even add roasted poblano peppers for a smokier flavor.
Sauce Options: For a different twist, try adding a squeeze of lime juice or some chopped cilantro to the dipping sauce for a fresh kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These wontons are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the wontons on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make these wontons ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wontons ahead of time, but it’s best to fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Can I bake these wontons instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the wontons at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy. Just be sure to brush them lightly with oil before baking.

How spicy are these wontons?

The spiciness will depend on the type and amount of chiles you use. For a milder version, use only green chilies and avoid the hot green chiles.

Can I freeze these wontons?

Yes, you can freeze un-fried wontons. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What can I serve with Chile Relleno Wontons?

These wontons pair well with a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, queso, or ranch dressing. For a more Asian-inspired pairing, try serving them with soy sauce or a sweet chili dipping sauce.

Can I make the dipping sauce without sesame oil?

Yes, if you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with olive oil or another mild oil, though sesame oil adds a distinct flavor that enhances the sauce.

How do I know when the wontons are done frying?

The wontons should be golden brown and crispy when done. Typically, they take 1-2 minutes to fry. Be sure to watch closely so they don’t overcook.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses. Just make sure they melt well.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian, as it only contains cheese and vegetables inside the wontons.

Can I make the wontons spicy without the dipping sauce?

Yes, you can increase the heat inside the wontons by adding more hot green chiles or even a touch of hot sauce to the filling before sealing them.

Conclusion

These Chile Relleno Wontons with Jalapeño Soy Sauce are a fun, delicious, and creative way to enjoy a Mexican favorite in a crispy, bite-sized form. The combination of gooey cheese, spicy chiles, and the tangy, flavorful dipping sauce makes them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Whether you serve them at your next party or enjoy them as a tasty treat at home, they’re sure to be a hit!