Quick and Easy Scallion Pancake Recipe
Introduction
Scallion pancakes, also known as Cong You Bing, are a staple in Chinese cuisine that has earned its place in the hearts and kitchens of food lovers worldwide. These crispy, flaky pancakes, filled with the bold flavor of fresh scallions, are loved for their simplicity and versatility. While often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish in Chinese meals, they can easily be made at home in your kitchen. This recipe will walk you through every step, from mixing the dough to frying the pancakes to perfection. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, these easy-to-follow instructions will help you make scallion pancakes that are crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and packed with flavor. This homemade version is quick, easy, and sure to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients Needed
To make delicious scallion pancakes at home, you don’t need many ingredients. The key is in the dough, a good amount of sesame oil, and fresh scallions. These ingredients come together to create a simple yet flavorful treat that requires little time but delivers big taste. Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 |
| Boiling water | 3/4 cup | 0 |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Scallions (green onions) | 4-5 stalks, chopped | 5-10 |
The total calories for the entire batch of pancakes comes out to roughly 1280 kcal. If you divide the recipe into four servings, each serving will have approximately 320 calories. Keep in mind that the calorie count may vary depending on the size of the pancakes or any ingredient substitutions you choose.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making scallion pancakes might seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, the process is quick and simple. Follow these steps to create your own crispy, savory pancakes at home.
Start by placing the all-purpose flour in a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour in the boiling water, stirring constantly to incorporate the water with the flour. The dough will start to come together. Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it on a clean, floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour. Once you’ve achieved the right texture, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to become more pliable and easier to work with.
While the dough is resting, wash and chop the scallions into small pieces. Place them into a bowl and set aside. This is the key flavoring for your pancakes, so make sure you’re using fresh, green scallions for the best taste.
After the dough has rested, it’s time to divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Take each ball and roll it out into a thin circle using a rolling pin. The goal here is to make each piece as thin as possible without tearing the dough. The thinner the dough, the crispier your pancakes will be. However, be careful not to roll it too thin, or you might end up with a pancake that tears easily while frying.
Once you have your thin dough circle, it’s time to add the flavor. Brush a thin layer of sesame oil over the surface of the dough. Then, sprinkle the chopped scallions generously on top of the oiled dough. The sesame oil will give the pancakes a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the scallions.
Carefully roll the dough with the scallions into a log shape, just like you would for a cinnamon roll. Once rolled, coil the log into a spiral shape. Make sure the ends are tucked under to secure the roll. Allow each spiral to rest for a few minutes before rolling them out again.
Gently flatten each coiled dough spiral into a flat circle again using your rolling pin. In a frying pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place your rolled-out pancake into the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The oil will help achieve that perfect crunch and golden color. Repeat with the remaining pancakes.
Once fried, place the pancakes on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve them immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. You can enjoy these on their own or with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and rice vinegar for an added punch of flavor.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
While this basic scallion pancake recipe is simple and delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to customize your pancakes to suit your tastes:
For a heartier meal, you can incorporate proteins like cooked chicken, ground pork, or even tofu. Simply chop the protein into small pieces and add it to the scallions before rolling the dough. This turns the pancake into a more substantial dish that can be enjoyed on its own.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the scallion mixture. This will give the pancakes a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture.
While sesame oil is traditional and adds a deep, nutty flavor, you can experiment with other oils like peanut or vegetable oil. If you’re looking for a lighter version, olive oil can also be a good choice.
For a gluten-free version of scallion pancakes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the packaging instructions to ensure it works well for dough-making. You may also need to adjust the amount of water to get the right consistency.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
When you’re cooking at home, it’s always helpful to know the nutritional breakdown of the food you’re making. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown of one serving (assuming four servings in total):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Fat: 16g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated fat: 14g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 0mg
The calorie count and nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients you use and the size of your pancakes. For a lighter version, consider using less oil for frying or opting for a non-stick pan.
Serving Suggestions
Scallion pancakes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. Here are a few suggestions to make your meal complete:
A simple soy sauce and rice vinegar dipping sauce pairs perfectly with scallion pancakes. You can even add a dash of sesame oil or a little sugar for sweetness. For a more intense flavor, add minced garlic or ginger to the sauce.
These pancakes can be served alongside a main course like stir-fried vegetables or noodle dishes. They make an excellent side to dishes like Chinese hot and sour soup or beef with broccoli.
Scallion pancakes are also delicious served with scrambled eggs or even a fried egg on top. It’s a quick and satisfying breakfast that combines savory, crispy, and chewy elements.
Conclusion
Scallion pancakes are one of those dishes that combine simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method to create something truly special. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, this quick and easy recipe ensures that anyone can recreate this crispy, savory treat at home. The best part is that you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences, adding proteins, spices, or making a gluten-free version. With this recipe in hand, you’ll be able to serve up homemade scallion pancakes that are crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and packed with flavor every single time. Happy cooking!