These Chinese Scallion Pancakes are the perfect crispy, savory treat to enjoy with friends and family. The delicate layers of dough are infused with fragrant scallions and sesame oil, giving each bite a satisfying crunch. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they bring the authentic taste of Chinese street food right to your kitchen.
Not only are they super delicious, but they’re also fun to make! You’ll love the process of rolling out the dough and frying them to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something crispy for yourself, these Chinese Scallion Pancakes will become your new favorite homemade snack.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
3/4 cup warm water
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 cup sesame oil (divided)
-
1 cup fresh scallions, finely chopped
-
1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
-
Salt to taste
Directions:
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
-
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes, until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
-
After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, round disc (about 8 inches in diameter).
-
Brush a thin layer of sesame oil on the dough. Sprinkle evenly with chopped scallions and a pinch of salt.
-
Carefully roll up each disc like a jelly roll, then coil each roll into a spiral. Let rest for another 15 minutes.
-
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the pancakes one at a time, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes, also known as Cong You Bing in Mandarin, are a savory, crispy treat often found at street food stalls throughout China. These pancakes are a popular choice for both breakfast and as a snack, offering a simple yet delicious combination of flavors and textures. The thin, layered dough is crispy on the outside while tender and chewy on the inside, with fresh scallions adding a burst of flavor.
This dish is not only beloved for its taste but also for the method of preparation that involves rolling and folding the dough to create those signature crispy layers. Though typically served as a side dish or appetizer, Chinese Scallion Pancakes can easily stand on their own as a snack or light meal. If you’ve ever visited a Chinese restaurant or explored the streets of a Chinese city, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered these fragrant and crunchy treats.
The History of Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes have a long history in Chinese cuisine, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Originally, they were considered a simple, humble food made from basic pantry staples, perfect for everyday meals. Over time, their popularity spread across various regions in China, where local variations have since emerged.
In China, street vendors often prepare these pancakes on large flat griddles, offering them freshly fried and served piping hot. They are a comforting food enjoyed by families and individuals alike, typically eaten with soy sauce or vinegar for added flavor. Despite their ancient origins, they have become a staple in Chinese households and restaurants around the world.
The Appeal of Chinese Scallion Pancakes
What makes Chinese Scallion Pancakes so appealing is their delightful texture and satisfying crunch. The dough is first rolled thin, then coated with fragrant sesame oil and topped with fresh scallions before being rolled into a spiral and fried to crispy perfection. The resulting pancake has an irresistible crispiness on the outside, while the inside remains soft and chewy. The savory flavor of the scallions adds a burst of freshness, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
In addition to their taste, these pancakes are incredibly versatile. You can eat them on their own as a snack, serve them as an appetizer alongside a main course, or pair them with a dipping sauce like soy sauce or chili oil for an extra kick. They’re also a great way to showcase your culinary skills and impress friends and family with your homemade creations.
Key Ingredients That Make This Recipe Special
The main ingredients of Chinese Scallion Pancakes are simple but essential. Flour, water, and salt form the dough, which is the base of this recipe. While the dough itself is fairly basic, it’s the addition of sesame oil and fresh scallions that truly elevate the flavor.
The sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness to the pancake, enhancing the flavor and giving it a distinct richness. Fresh scallions are finely chopped and sprinkled throughout the dough, offering a bright, green bite that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the fried pancake. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—using just a few basic ingredients, you can create something truly delicious and satisfying.
The Preparation Process: More Than Just Cooking
Making Chinese Scallion Pancakes is as much about technique as it is about ingredients. While the recipe itself may seem simple, there’s an art to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The process begins with making the dough, which must be kneaded until smooth and allowed to rest before being rolled out.
The key to the perfect pancake is creating layers, and this is achieved by rolling the dough thin, brushing it with sesame oil, and then sprinkling the scallions on top. Rolling the dough into a spiral and letting it rest before frying allows the layers to develop, which results in the crispy, flaky texture that is characteristic of these pancakes.
Another important step in the process is frying. You’ll need to use enough oil to get the pancakes golden brown and crispy, but not so much that they become greasy. The pancakes should be flipped carefully to ensure they cook evenly on both sides, allowing each bite to deliver the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness.
Serving Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes are often served as a side dish or snack, but they are versatile enough to be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Traditionally, they are served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar and a few drops of sesame oil. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, chili oil or sriracha can be added to the dipping sauce for an extra kick.
While they are typically eaten as a savory dish, Chinese Scallion Pancakes can be customized with different ingredients or served with a variety of accompaniments. For example, you can add minced pork, beef, or even scrambled eggs to the filling for a heartier version. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings to tailor the pancakes to your tastes.
Variations of Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Although the classic recipe for Chinese Scallion Pancakes is delicious as it is, there are many variations that you can try depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can make them vegan by simply omitting any animal-based ingredients. Some variations of scallion pancakes feature additional vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or cabbage for added texture and flavor.
Another variation is to add spices like five-spice powder or Chinese chili flakes for a more flavorful and aromatic pancake. Some recipes also incorporate a bit of soy sauce into the dough for extra umami. The possibilities are endless, making this dish perfect for experimentation in the kitchen.
Why Chinese Scallion Pancakes are Perfect for Any Occasion
Chinese Scallion Pancakes are an excellent dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner at home, preparing an appetizer for a special gathering, or simply craving something crispy and savory, these pancakes are sure to please. They are easy to make, require few ingredients, and can be customized to suit different tastes.
These pancakes are also a great dish to make in advance. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the pancakes and enjoy them fresh and crispy. They also store well in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep or as leftovers.
The Fun of Making Chinese Scallion Pancakes at Home
Making Chinese Scallion Pancakes at home is a fun and rewarding experience. While they might seem intimidating at first, once you get the hang of rolling and folding the dough, the process becomes easier and more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to get your hands involved in the cooking process and learn more about Chinese cuisine.
One of the best parts of making your own scallion pancakes is that you can control the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh scallions and high-quality sesame oil ensures that your pancakes will be full of flavor, and you can avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives that may be found in store-bought versions.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Satisfying Dish for All
Chinese Scallion Pancakes are a beloved dish that offers a delicious combination of crispy texture, savory flavor, and fresh scallions. Whether you’re making them for a snack, a meal, or a party appetizer, they are sure to impress anyone who tastes them. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but it’s the technique and attention to detail that make it truly special.
With a little practice, you can master the art of making these pancakes at home and enjoy the authentic taste of Chinese street food in your own kitchen. Experiment with different variations and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable culinary experience. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to make a batch of crispy, golden Chinese Scallion Pancakes that will have everyone asking for seconds.