Won Tons

A Chinese speciality, won tons are made from dough wrappers stuffed with a filling of minced meat, vegetables or seafood. They can be boiled and served in a broth, either with or without noodles, or steamed or deep-fried and served as an appetiser with a dipping sauce. The name won ton (or huntun) means ‘swallowing clouds’. Won tons are traditionally served on the winter solstice (December 22) in northern China, the day on which winter arrives and ancestors are remembered. Originally a food for emperors, won tons are now a roadside snack to be enjoyed by everyone.