Egg Roll vs Wonton Wrappers Amanda, April 15, 2023April 15, 2023 Egg rolls and wontons are two popular dishes that have transcended cultural boundaries to become beloved worldwide. Both dishes involve wrapping ingredients in a thin dough, which is then cooked to create a crispy, savory treat. While these two foods may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between them that can make all the difference when it comes to taste and texture. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at egg roll and wonton wrappers and explore what sets them apart from each other. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, understanding these differences can help you create more delicious and authentic dishes for your friends and family. Egg Roll vs Wonton Wrappers -Ultimate Comparison Egg roll and wonton wrappers are two popular types of dough used in Asian cuisine. While they may look similar, there are distinct differences between the two. Egg roll wrappers are made from a mixture of flour, water, and eggs. They are thicker and have a chewy texture compared to wonton wrappers. The addition of eggs gives them a yellowish color, and they have a slightly sweet taste. Egg roll wrappers are commonly used for making deep-fried appetizers such as egg rolls, spring rolls, or crab rangoons. On the other hand, wonton wrappers are made from flour, water, and salt. They are thinner than egg roll wrappers and have a delicate, translucent texture when cooked. Wonton wrappers have a neutral flavor that pairs well with savory fillings like ground pork or shrimp. Wonton wrappers can be boiled for soup dumplings or deep-fried for crispy wontons. Understanding Egg Roll Wrappers Egg roll wrappers are a dough used to wrap various fillings, typically for deep frying. They are often used in Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. These wrappers can be found in most grocery stores and come in a variety of sizes. What are Egg Roll Wrappers? Egg roll wrappers are thin sheets of wheat flour dough that are commonly used in making egg rolls, a popular Chinese-American dish. These wrappers are usually sold in the refrigerated or frozen section of grocery stores and come in different sizes and shapes. Egg roll wrappers are made from a combination of wheat flour, water, salt, and sometimes eggs. The dough is rolled out thinly and cut into squares or circles before being filled with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, or seafood. The wrappers can be deep-fried or baked until crispy and golden brown. One advantage of using egg roll wrappers is their versatility. They can be used to make a variety of dishes besides egg rolls, such as spring rolls, dumplings, and even dessert recipes like apple turnovers. However, one downside to using egg roll wrappers is that they tend to be thicker than other types of wrappers like wonton wrappers. This can affect the texture and overall taste of the dish. Overall, egg roll wrappers are a great option for those looking to make crispy and flavorful dishes with a sturdy wrapper. Ingredients of Egg Roll Wrappers Egg roll wrappers are a type of dough used in making egg rolls. They are thin and made from wheat flour, salt, water, and sometimes egg. The wheat flour used in making egg roll wrappers is usually all-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose and cake flour. The dough is rolled out into thin sheets that are cut into squares or circles. The main ingredients in egg roll wrappers are wheat flour and water. Some recipes may also include eggs, which give the wrapper a richer flavor and yellowish color. Egg roll wrappers are slightly chewy when cooked and can hold up well to frying or baking. One advantage of using egg roll wrappers is their versatility in cooking. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat, seafood, or cheese to make savory or sweet dishes. Popular recipes using egg roll wrappers include classic Chinese egg rolls, Vietnamese spring rolls, and dessert rolls filled with fruit and cream cheese. On the downside, egg roll wrappers tend to be thicker than other types of dough like wonton wrappers. This can make them harder to fold for certain dishes like dumplings or potstickers. Pros and Cons of Using Egg Roll Wrappers Egg roll wrappers are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine. They are made of flour, water, and egg, which gives them their yellow color and slightly chewy texture. One of the main advantages of using egg roll wrappers is their versatility. They can be used to make a wide variety of dishes, from spring rolls to dumplings. However, there are also some cons to using egg roll wrappers. One of the biggest drawbacks is that they can be difficult to work with if you’re not experienced in handling them. They can tear easily and require some skill to fold properly. Additionally, they tend to be thicker than other types of wrappers, which can make them more filling and less suitable for delicate dishes. Despite these challenges, many chefs prefer egg roll wrappers for their unique texture and flavor. They are also a good option for recipes that require a sturdier wrapper that won’t fall apart during cooking. Some popular recipes that use egg roll wrappers include classic pork and vegetable spring rolls, crispy fried wontons filled with cream cheese or crab meat, and hearty potstickers filled with ground pork or chicken. Popular Recipes Using Egg Roll Wrappers Egg roll wrappers are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are commonly used to make the popular Chinese-American dish, egg rolls, which are deep-fried and filled with vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles. However, egg roll wrappers can also be used to make other dishes such as spring rolls, samosas, and even desserts like apple pie rolls. One popular recipe using egg roll wrappers is vegetable spring rolls. These light and crispy appetizers are filled with a mixture of shredded carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts, and mushrooms. The filling is seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger before being wrapped in an egg roll wrapper and deep-fried until golden brown. Another popular recipe using egg roll wrappers is buffalo chicken rolls. Shredded cooked chicken is mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese before being wrapped in an egg roll wrapper and baked until crispy. These rolls are perfect for game day or as a party appetizer. Egg roll wrappers can also be used to make sweet treats like Nutella banana egg rolls. Sliced bananas and Nutella are rolled up in an egg roll wrapper before being fried until crispy. These dessert egg rolls can be served with ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious treat. Understanding Wonton Wrappers Wonton wrappers are a type of thin dough used in Chinese cuisine. They are made from flour, water, and egg, and are typically square-shaped. Wonton wrappers can be found fresh or frozen in most Asian grocery stores. Wonton wrappers have a delicate texture that is perfect for making dumplings, wontons, and other small appetizers. When cooked, they are thinner than egg roll wrappers and have a slightly chewy texture. The ingredients used to make wonton wrappers are simple and straightforward. Flour, water, and egg are mixed together to form a smooth dough that is then rolled out into thin sheets. Some recipes may call for adding salt or cornstarch to improve the wrapper’s texture. One advantage of using wonton wrappers is their versatility. They can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, making them a great option for experimenting with new recipes. Some popular recipes using wonton wrappers include steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and dessert dumplings filled with fruit or cream cheese. However, one downside to using wonton wrappers is their fragility. Because they are so thin and delicate, they can tear easily if not handled carefully during cooking. What are Wonton Wrappers? Wonton wrappers are thin sheets of dough made from flour, water, and egg. They are a staple in Chinese cuisine and are commonly used to make wontons, dumplings, and other delicious dishes. Wonton wrappers have a delicate texture that is slightly chewy when cooked. They are thinner than egg roll wrappers and have a smooth surface with no visible pores or bumps. The size of wonton wrappers varies depending on the brand but they are typically smaller than egg roll wrappers. The ingredients used to make wonton wrappers include wheat flour, water, egg, and salt. Some brands may also add cornstarch or other ingredients for added texture or flavor. One of the benefits of using wonton wrappers is their versatility in cooking. They can be boiled, steamed, fried, or baked to create a variety of dishes such as wonton soup, potstickers, and even dessert dumplings filled with sweet fruits or chocolate. However, one potential drawback of using wonton wrappers is their fragility. Due to their thinness and delicate texture, they can tear easily if not handled carefully during preparation. Overall, wonton wrappers are a great choice for those looking for a lighter and more delicate wrapper option in their cooking. Ingredients of Wonton Wrappers Wonton wrappers are thin sheets of dough typically used in Chinese cuisine to make wontons, dumplings, and other similar dishes. They are made from a simple flour, water, and salt mixture. The main ingredients in wonton wrappers are wheat flour, water, and salt. Some recipes may also call for egg or cornstarch to be added to the dough to improve its texture and elasticity. The wheat flour used in wonton wrappers is usually all-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose and cake flour. All-purpose flour contains a moderate amount of gluten, which gives the dough its elasticity and allows it to hold together well when filled and cooked. Water is added to the flour to form a smooth dough. The amount of water required may vary depending on the type of flour used and the humidity level in the kitchen. Salt is added to enhance the flavor of the dough. It also helps to strengthen the flour’s gluten, making it easier to work with. Pros and Cons of Using Wonton Wrappers Wonton wrappers are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes, particularly in Chinese cuisine. These thin sheets of dough are typically made from flour, salt, and water, and can be used in a variety of recipes such as dumplings, wonton soup, and egg rolls. One of the main advantages of using wonton wrappers is their versatility. They can be used to make both savory and sweet dishes and can be boiled, fried or steamed. Additionally, they are widely available at most grocery stores and are relatively inexpensive. On the other hand, one potential downside of using wonton wrappers is their delicate nature. They can tear easily if not handled carefully while filling or cooking. Furthermore, some people may find that the texture of wonton wrappers is too thin or chewy for their liking. Overall, the decision to use wonton wrappers will depend on the specific recipe being prepared and personal preferences. For those who enjoy the delicate texture and versatility of wonton wrappers, they can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. Popular Recipes Using Wonton Wrappers Wonton wrappers are a versatile ingredient in Asian cuisine that can be used for both savory and sweet dishes. They are thin, delicate sheets made from flour, egg, and water. Wonton wrappers in most grocery stores come in various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. One of the most popular recipes using wonton wrappers is wonton soup. This dish consists of small dumplings made by wrapping minced pork or shrimp with vegetables in wonton wrappers. The dumplings are then boiled in a flavorful broth made with chicken or pork bones, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Another favorite recipe using wonton wrappers is crispy fried wontons. These appetizers are filled with a mixture of cream cheese and green onions before being deep-fried until crispy. They can be served as they are or dipped into sweet chili sauce for added flavor. Wonton wrappers can also be used to make desserts, such as fried banana wontons or strawberry cream cheese wontons. These desserts consist of filling the wonton wrapper with fruit or cream cheese before being deep-fried until golden brown. Differences Between Egg Roll and Wonton Wrappers Egg roll and wonton wrappers are both popular ingredients in Asian cuisine, but they have some key differences. 1. Texture and Appearance When it comes to texture and appearance, egg roll wrappers are thicker and have a rougher texture compared to wonton wrappers. Egg roll wrappers are made with wheat flour, water, and eggs, which give them their yellowish color. When cooked, they have a slightly chewy texture and can hold up well to frying or baking. On the other hand, wonton wrappers are thinner and smoother in texture. They are made with wheat flour, water, and sometimes egg white. Wonton wrappers have a pale white color and a delicate texture when cooked. They are often used for dumplings or boiled dishes because they can easily become soggy if overcooked. In terms of appearance, egg roll wrappers are larger than wonton wrappers and have a rectangular shape. Wonton wrappers are smaller and usually come in a square shape. However, both types of wrappers can be cut into different shapes depending on the recipe. When deciding which wrapper to use in cooking, it’s important to consider the desired texture and appearance of the final dish. Egg roll wrappers work well for crispy fried dishes like spring rolls or samosas. Wonton wrappers are better suited for delicate dishes like wonton soup or steamed dumplings. 2. Taste and Flavor When it comes to taste and flavor, egg roll and wonton wrappers have some differences that can affect the overall outcome of your dish. Egg roll wrappers have a slightly sweet flavor due to the addition of sugar in their ingredients. This sweetness can complement savory fillings such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The texture of egg roll wrappers is also slightly thicker and chewier than wonton wrappers, which can add more depth to the dish’s mouthfeel. On the other hand, wonton wrappers have a more neutral taste that can be easily adapted to different fillings and sauces. They are thinner and lighter than egg roll wrappers, providing a delicate texture that can enhance the flavors of the filling. Wonton wrappers are often used in soups or steamed dishes where their thinness allows them to cook quickly without becoming too mushy. Ultimately, choosing between egg roll and wonton wrappers depends on your preference and the recipe you follow. If you want a sweeter and chewier wrapper that can hold up well in frying or baking, egg roll wrappers might be the best choice. However, wonton wrappers would be a better option if you prefer a lighter, more delicate wrapper that can showcase the filling’s flavors. It is also worth noting that both types of wrappers can be used interchangeably in some recipes with minor adjustments. For example, if you only have egg roll wrappers on hand but need to make wontons for soup, you can cut them into smaller squares or circles instead of using them as large rectangles. 3. Size and Shape Regarding size and shape, egg roll wrappers and wonton wrappers are quite different. Egg roll wrappers are larger in size compared to wonton wrappers. They typically measure around 7 inches by 7 inches, while wonton wrappers usually come in a square shape that measures about 3 inches by 3 inches. The shape of the two types of wrappers is also different. Egg roll wrappers are rectangular, while wonton wrappers have a triangular shape with a flat base. This difference in shape can affect the type of dishes they are used for. For example, egg roll wrappers are commonly used for spring rolls or fried appetizers, while wonton wrappers are often used for making dumplings or soup. The wrapper’s size and shape can also determine how much filling you can use. Since egg roll wrappers are larger, they can hold more filling than wonton wrappers. This makes them ideal for dishes with more ingredients, such as vegetables or meat. In summary, when considering the size and shape of your wrapper, it’s important to consider what kind of dish you’re making and how much filling you want to include. If you’re making a dish that requires more filling or has larger ingredients, then egg roll wrappers may be the better choice due to their larger size and rectangular shape. However, if you’re making smaller dishes like dumplings or want a more delicate wrapper, then wonton wrappers may be the way to go with their triangular shape and smaller size. 4. Usage in Cooking When it comes to cooking, both egg roll and wonton wrappers are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, there are some differences in the way they are typically used. Egg roll wrappers are larger and thicker than wonton wrappers, which makes them ideal for deep frying. They hold up well when filled with heavier ingredients like meat or vegetables and can be fried until crispy without falling apart. Some popular dishes made with egg roll wrappers include classic egg rolls, crab rangoons, and spring rolls. Wonton wrappers are thinner and more delicate than egg roll wrappers, which makes them perfect for boiling or steaming. They are often used to make dumplings or wontons filled with lighter ingredients like ground pork or shrimp. Wontons can also be deep-fried to make crispy snacks or appetizers. Some popular dishes made with wonton wrappers include wonton soup, potstickers, and dim sum. In summary, the usage of egg roll and wonton wrappers in cooking is determined by their texture and thickness. Egg roll wrappers are better suited for deep-frying while wonton wrappers work best when boiled or steamed. When deciding which wrapper to use for a particular dish, it’s important to consider the cooking method as well as the filling being used. Conclusion In conclusion, the choice between egg roll and wonton wrappers ultimately depends on personal preference and the prepared dish. Egg roll wrappers are larger, thicker, and have a more pronounced egg flavor, making them ideal for deep-frying and creating crispy textures. On the other hand, wonton wrappers are smaller, thinner, and have a milder taste that works well in delicate dishes such as wonton soup or steamed dumplings. Both types of wrappers have pros and cons regarding texture, flavor, size, shape and usage in cooking. It is important to consider factors such as the desired outcome of the dish, cooking methods used and ingredients availability before deciding which wrapper to use. Whether you prefer the crunchy texture of egg roll wrappers or the delicate flavor of wonton wrappers, there is no denying that both play an important role in Chinese cuisine. From classic dishes like egg rolls and wontons to modern creations like fried ravioli or samosas, these versatile wrappers can be used in countless ways to create delicious food. Blog