Fried Thai Money Bags

Fried money bags filled with a kaffir lime-scented minced pork stuffing are crisp, flavorful and slightly spicy. The stuffing can be made with a food processor in a matter of minutes. Folding the bags is actually simple, but the effect is stunning. With the sweet-spicy sauce, you’ll be able to regale your guests with a treat.

Recipe for 4 to 5

For the filling

• 12 oz. / 330 g pork shoulder, minced
• A few sprigs of cilantro (coriander), leaves picked
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 egg white
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• About 12 kaffir lime leaves, central vein removed

A packet of wonton wrappers (at Asian grocery stores)

• Oil for frying
• 2 Chinese onions

Note: These are also known as scallions and, in the UK, as spring onions. You can also use chives.

This is what a kaffir lime leaf looks like. These citrus fruits also go by the name of leech lime. The leaves are generally sold frozen in Asian grocery stores.

Combine all the ingredients in the bowl of a food processer fitted with the blade knife and all you have to do is press the button.

The stuffing is ready in just a few seconds.

Take a wonton wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of pork stuffing in the center.

Fold the wrapper to form an attractive pouch. (Thanks, Leandro, for doing the folding so neatly.) Turn the edges back and press the top of the pouch firmly so that it is properly closed.

Heat the oil. Carefully drop in the money bags and fry until golden. Drain briefly on paper towel. Tie a knot with a strand of scallion.

Serve very hot accompanied by a sweet-spicy sauce. You can buy one of those thick sauces ready-made. Look for the type that is used to serve with fried spring rolls.