Chinese Scallion Pancakes

Savor the Flavors of the Orient: Authentic Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe

Introduction: Step into the culinary world of China with the tantalizing aroma and irresistible taste of Scallion Pancakes. These savory delights are a beloved staple of Chinese cuisine, featuring layers of crispy dough infused with the fragrant essence of fresh scallions. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, Chinese Scallion Pancakes are sure to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beijing. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind this classic recipe and learn how to recreate its authentic flavors in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1 bunch Scallions (green onions)

Baking & Spices:

  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp White pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Five-spice powder (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Condiments (optional):

  • Soy sauce
  • Hoisin sauce

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, white pepper, and optional five-spice powder.
    • Gradually add water to the flour mixture, stirring continuously, until a smooth dough forms.
    • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Scallions:
    • While the dough is resting, prepare the scallions. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
    • Trim off the root ends of the scallions and cut them into thin slices, both the white and green parts.
  3. Roll Out the Dough:
    • After the resting period, divide the dough into equal-sized portions, depending on how large you want your pancakes to be.
    • Roll out each portion of dough into a thin, flat circle on a lightly floured surface, aiming for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
  4. Add the Scallions:
    • Sprinkle a generous amount of sliced scallions evenly over the surface of each rolled-out dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
  5. Shape the Pancakes:
    • Starting from one edge, roll up the dough tightly, like a jelly roll, trapping the scallions inside.
    • Coil the rolled dough into a spiral shape, tucking the end underneath to seal it.
  6. Flatten and Fry:
    • Gently flatten each coiled pancake with your hands to create a flat disk, being careful not to press too hard and squash the layers.
    • Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the flattened pancakes to the pan, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
    • Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them halfway through cooking.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Transfer the cooked Scallion Pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
    • Cut the pancakes into wedges or slices and serve them hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauces such as soy sauce or hoisin sauce.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Crispy Texture: For extra crispiness, you can double-fry the pancakes. After the first fry, remove them from the oil, let them cool slightly, and then fry them again until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
  • Customize the Filling: Get creative with the filling by adding other ingredients such as minced garlic, sesame oil, or even shredded cheese for a unique twist on this traditional recipe.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and scallion filling ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use. This makes it easy to whip up fresh pancakes whenever you’re ready to enjoy them.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: To make a keto-friendly version of Scallion Pancakes, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid used in the dough to achieve the desired consistency.
  • Low Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, you can use a combination of almond flour and psyllium husk powder in place of the all-purpose flour. These alternative flours offer fewer carbohydrates while still providing a satisfying texture.

Embark on a culinary journey to China’s bustling streets with the delightful flavors of homemade Scallion Pancakes. With layers of crispy dough infused with the aromatic essence of fresh scallions, these pancakes are a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to your favorite Chinese dishes, Scallion Pancakes are sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the authentic taste of China in the comfort of your own kitchen.