Crab rangoon

Crab rangoon is a popular appetizer consisting of a creamy, savory filling wrapped in a thin wonton wrapper and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The classic filling typically includes cream cheese, imitation crab (surimi), and seasonings like garlic or onion. While its name suggests an Asian origin, it is widely considered a staple of American Chinese cuisine, likely invented in the mid-20th century in the United States.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Crab rangoon is a high-fat, high-carb appetizer due to the deep-frying process and the cream cheese filling, with a moderate amount of protein from the crab and dairy. A typical serving of three to four pieces can range from 300 to 400 calories, with a significant portion of calories coming from fat.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	310 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	24 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	680 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Potassium	180 mg
Vitamin A	120 IU
Vitamin C	2 mg
Vitamin B12	1.5 mcg
Phosphorus	150 mg
Selenium	15 mcg

Per 4 pieces (approx. 120 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, crab rangoon is a fascinating example of culinary adaptation, representing a distinctly American invention that has become a ubiquitous menu item in Chinese restaurants across North America. Nutritionally, it highlights how a dish can be a source of both protein and calcium (from the dairy) while also being a dense source of calories and fat.