Crispy Scallion Pancakes Recipe
Crispy Scallion Pancakes are a delicious, flavorful Chinese comfort food made from a simple dough infused with fresh scallions and pan-fried to golden perfection. This easy homemade recipe creates savory, flaky pancakes with a satisfying crunch, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus additional salt for seasoning)
- 1 cup very hot water
Filling and Cooking
- 1 bunch scallions (finely chopped; green onions can also be used)
- 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually pour in the very hot water while stirring vigorously with a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough by hand for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the rested dough into four equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin circle approximately 8 to 10 inches in diameter.
- Add Scallions: Evenly sprinkle the finely chopped scallions over the surface of each dough circle. Gently press the scallions into the dough so they adhere well without tearing the dough.
- Shape the Pancakes: Starting from one edge, tightly roll each dough circle into a spiral shape. Then gently flatten the spiraled dough to form the pancake shape.
- Fry the Pancakes: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each pancake for 3-4 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until equally golden and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Cut the crispy scallion pancakes into wedges and serve hot, optionally accompanied by a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or chili oil for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use very hot water to help create a tender dough.
- Resting the dough is crucial for easy rolling and better texture.
- Adjust oil quantity for frying depending on skillet size to ensure even cooking.
- Serve immediately for optimal crispiness.
- Can add sesame oil for extra fragrance in the dough or frying oil.
Keywords: scallion pancakes, Chinese pancakes, crispy pancakes, savory pancakes, homemade scallion pancakes, comfort food, appetizer