Description
Deliciously crispy and savory Chinese scallion pancakes made from a simple dough infused with fresh scallions and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet. These pancakes make a perfect appetizer or snack and pair wonderfully with soy sauce or chili oil dips.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling and Cooking
- 1/2 cup scallions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and slowly pour in the boiling water while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or chopsticks. Gradually add the cold water until the dough starts to come together. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Roll Out the Dough:
Divide the rested dough into 4 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a thin circle approximately 8 inches in diameter, preparing them for filling.
- Brush with Oil and Sprinkle Scallions:
Lightly brush each dough circle with sesame oil if using, or vegetable oil as a substitute. Evenly sprinkle the finely chopped scallions over the dough and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Roll and Coil the Dough:
Roll each dough circle tightly into a log, then coil it into a spiral shape. Gently flatten the spiral with your hand and roll it out again carefully into a thin pancake about 6 inches in diameter, ensuring the scallions are distributed inside.
- Cook the Pancakes:
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Place each pancake in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed for the remaining pancakes.
- Serve:
Cut the cooked pancakes into wedges and serve hot. These scallion pancakes are delicious on their own or paired with dipping sauces like soy sauce, black vinegar, or chili oil for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can omit sesame oil if unavailable; vegetable oil works fine as an alternative.
- Ensure the dough rests adequately to make rolling easier and pancakes fluffier.
- Adjust cooking time to avoid burning; medium heat is crucial for evenly cooked pancakes.
- Serve immediately for best texture as they tend to lose crispness when cooled.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese