Cream Cheese Wontons: Same as Crab Rangoon?

Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Aaron

Are cream cheese wontons the same as crab rangoon? This is a question that many people have asked, and the answer is…sort of.

They are similar, but there are some differences. Crab rangoon contains crab meat, whereas cream cheese wontons usually do not. It uses cream cheese as the fillings to mix with garlic, scallions or onion, and eggs.

Some recipes may also include crab meat or imitation crab meat.

To make the cream cheese wontons – or cream cheese Rangoon – firstly, the ingredients are mixed and folded with wonton wrappers. and fry to crisp. Then, serve with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet-sour sauce.

Somewhat similar to mozzarella cheese sticks, these tasty little appetizers are mild, creamy, sweet, and just delicious. It’s crispy outside, while soft and delicate inside.

Are cream cheese wontons actually Chinese?

While there is some debate about the origins of this popular Chinese restaurant appetizer, most people agree that it was invented in San Francisco.

Cream cheese is not a traditional Chinese ingredient. It’s believed that the invention of crab rangoon was created by Joe Young who worked in Trader Vic which was owned by Victor Jules Bergeron Jr.

Either way, it is a perfect blend of American-Chinese cuisine, and it’s definitely here to stay.

Are cream cheese wontons gluten-free?

They are not gluten-free. The wrappers usually contain wheat flour and water, so they already have gluten in them. For example, the store-bought cream cheese wontons by Target Stores USDA is also made with “enriched wheat flour” so, it’s also not gluten-free.

However, the Philadelphia cream cheese and many of its varieties are gluten-free.

Are cream cheese Rangoons vegetarian?

Yes, without the crab fillings, they are vegetarian technically. As with most wontons, the wrapper is made from wheat flour and water only (and of course salt, acid, and chemicals!) USDA. The cream cheese itself is vegetarian, read how it’s made here.

The cream cheese mixture usually contains dairy products such as milk or eggs, but some variations are vegan-friendly too.

What is in the cream cheese Rangoons at Panda Express?

Their website says it’s made of wonton wrappers and cream cheese. It may very likely also contain onion and garlic powder.

Also on their website, it’s explicitly stated that – Panda Express does not have any vegetarian or gluten-free dishes.

So, that’s a bit of a bummer.

Are cream cheese wontons safe during pregnancy?

There are no definitive answers as to whether or not it is safe to eat cream cheese wontons while pregnant. Cream cheese is safe to consume during pregnancy (1) without the deep-fry, processed wonton wrappers, and worse, imitation crab meat.

Real crab meat is not only safe but full of omega-3s and vitamins – pretty darn good for you! However, imitation crab meat is full of… everything random but no proper crab meat.

Are cream cheese wontons keto-friendly?

A serving of 3 cream cheese wontons, according to the Panda Express, contains about 24 grams of carbohydrates. It means 35% of these are carbs, having a few of these cream cheese wontons will easily kick you out of ketosis in a keto diet.

If you want to make it keto-friendly, then you could use a low-carb wonton wrapper. Also, filling with cream cheese or shrimp will help reduce the carb levels.

So, are cream cheese wontons healthy?

There is no definitive answer as they are not technically considered a “healthy” food item.

For the serving size of 3 cream cheese wontons (2.4 oz total), it contains a daily value of about 12% cholesterols and 25% saturated fat.

The cream cheese itself has some health benefits, though – it contains a good amount of calcium and protein – without deep-frying of course.

Also, the wonton wrappers are loaded with carbs and chemicals.

However, if you make them at home with low-carb or gluten-free wonton wrappers, use healthier and natural ingredients, and air-fried or baked them – then they are definitely a better option over the deep-fried versions you get at most restaurants.

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