Spicy Cheeseburger and Caramelized Onion Purses
This chile pepper gets its name from its origin. In Spanish, serrano is an adjective meaning “from the mountains” which is where it originated-in the mountains of Hildalgo, Mexico. The serrano is normally about twice as hot as Jalapeno (about 10,000 to 15,000 Scoville units).It is the second most popular chile pepper in Mexico. This chile is used mostly for salsas but can also be used in soups, sauces, chili or stews.Try these as a hotter substitute for Jalapeno.
Serves: 36
INGREDIENTS
1 pound ground beef (I used 90% lean)
36 wonton wrappers
1 egg beaten
¼ pound American cheese
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, sautéed and caramelized
1 serrano chile pepper, seeded and diced
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon of salt
Ketchup (for serving)
INSTRUCTIONS
Chop the onions and add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil to a pan.
In a large sauté pan caramelize the onions, stirring and browning for 25-30 minutes, until nice and golden. Add diced chile and saute for 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
Add the ground beef to the sauté pan, cooking and breaking up into pieces. Drain excess juice, and return to pan.
Add the American cheese, stirring until it is melted and well dispersed. Add the salt and pepper to taste.
On a clean surface, lay out the wonton wrappers. Using your fingertip (or a small pastry brush), cover all the edges of the wonton wrapper with the beaten egg.
Add a dollop of the ground beef mixture, and top with a little caramelized onions and chile. Try not to overstuff, or you will not be able to fold.
Fold the wonton wrappers corner to corner and firmly seal the edges. Pinch the center until it is sealed and makes a purse.
In a pot, heat the vegetable oil to 425º degrees.
Working in batches, carefully place the purses in the hot oil. The purses will quickly brown, and become crispy (approximately 1 minute to 1½ minutes until they are cooked).
Serve with ketchup, and enjoy!
Slightly adapted from a recipe from forkknifeandlove.com