When it comes to Chinese takeout favorites, Scallion Pancakes are a crunchy sensation that’s hard to resist. These delightful pancakes are not only incredibly flavorful but also wonderfully versatile. They pair perfectly with garlicky sautéed Asian greens and steamed jasmine rice, making them a delightful addition to any meal. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating these crispy, savory pancakes that are sure to become a household favorite.
Scallion Pancakes, a beloved Chinese dish, are known for their satisfying crunch and savory flavor. These pancakes are a true treat and are often enjoyed with a side of garlicky sautéed Asian greens and fragrant steamed jasmine rice. This recipe will take you on a journey to create these delectable pancakes from scratch, ensuring a crispy, flavorful result.
SERVES 4
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ½ tablespoons peanut oil
- 1 cup boiling water
- 4 teaspoons Asian toasted sesame oil
- 1 cup chopped scallion greens, plus extra for garnishing
- ½ cup corn oil for frying
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, salt, peanut oil, and 1 cup of boiling water. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a workable dough. If needed, add more flour to achieve the right consistency. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Once kneaded to perfection, wrap the dough in plastic film and let it rest for 20 minutes.
- Divide and Roll: Divide the rested dough into 4 equal parts. Take one part and roll it out into a 6×8-inch rectangle. Brush the rectangle with Asian toasted sesame oil, and then sprinkle it with ¼ cup of chopped scallions. Roll the dough, jelly-roll style, into a cylinder shape. Slightly flatten the cylinder and crimp the ends. Finally, coil the cylinder into a disk and pinch the edges to seal it. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions until you have 4 savory pancakes.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of corn oil. Fry each pancake one at a time, adding more oil to the skillet when necessary to prevent sticking. Cook until the pancakes turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Once a pancake is done, keep it warm in the oven while frying the others.
- Serve and Garnish: To serve, sprinkle the Scallion Pancakes with a generous amount of chopped scallions. The extra scallions not only add flavor but also create an appealing presentation.
Scallion Pancakes are a delightful Chinese treat that brings a satisfying crunch to your dining table. With their savory flavor and crispy texture, they make a perfect side dish or appetizer. Enjoy them alongside garlicky sautéed Asian greens and steamed jasmine rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Making these pancakes from scratch allows you to savor their authentic taste and freshness. The combination of fragrant sesame oil and the green, oniony goodness of scallions creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or as a party appetizer, Scallion Pancakes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create these scrumptious pancakes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Chinese cuisine. With every crispy bite, you’ll appreciate the delicious simplicity of Scallion Pancakes. Enjoy!