Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes

Highlighted under: World Taste Recipe Collection

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are a delightful snack or appetizer, featuring layers of flaky pastry and aromatic scallions.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-08T23:13:28.279Z

These scallion pancakes are a beloved street food in China, celebrated for their crispy texture and savory flavor. They make for a perfect snack or side dish, and are easy to prepare at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior
  • Savory scallion flavor that enhances every bite
  • Quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight treat
  • Versatile dish that can be served with various dipping sauces

Discover the Flavors of Scallion Pancakes

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are not just a snack; they are a culinary experience that celebrates the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. The combination of flaky pastry and the fragrant, savory notes of scallions creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a soft interior, making it a unique addition to your appetizer repertoire.

These pancakes are a staple in many Chinese households, often served during family gatherings or enjoyed as a street food delicacy. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the incredible depth of flavor they provide. With just a handful of items, you can create a dish that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Beijing or Shanghai.

Whether you enjoy them on their own or with a selection of dipping sauces, Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are sure to impress. Their versatility allows them to pair wonderfully with a variety of condiments, enhancing the overall experience and making them a perfect addition to any meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are exceptionally versatile, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, preparing a festive feast, or simply looking for a quick weeknight snack, these pancakes fit the bill. Their appealing presentation and delightful taste make them an instant crowd-pleaser, ensuring that they will be a hit at your next gathering.

The ease of preparation is another reason to love these pancakes. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip them up in no time. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and reheated, allowing for effortless entertaining.

Additionally, they can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add proteins like cooked shrimp or chicken to the filling. This adaptability means you can enjoy a new twist on this classic dish every time you make it.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious pancakes:

For the Pancakes

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup scallions, finely chopped

For Dipping Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your scallion pancakes:

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add boiling water while stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

Once the dough has rested, divide it into four equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with chopped scallions. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then coil it into a spiral shape and flatten gently.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place the flattened pancake in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Serve alongside the pancakes.

Enjoy your crispy scallion pancakes while they're hot!

Tips for Perfect Pancakes

To achieve the best texture in your scallion pancakes, it's essential to use boiling water for the dough. This method helps to create a soft, pliable dough that cooks to a crispy finish. Kneading the dough until it is smooth is also crucial, as it develops the gluten structure needed for that delightful flakiness.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. If your dough is too thick, it may not cook through completely, while overly thin dough can lead to tearing. A light dusting of flour on your work surface will help prevent sticking and make the rolling process easier.

If you want to get creative with your fillings, consider adding finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, or even a bit of cheese for a different flavor profile. Just be sure not to overfill the pancakes, as this can make it difficult to roll them properly.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover scallion pancakes, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and preventing them from becoming soggy. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the pancakes. Just separate layers with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to two months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover pancakes, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. This method will help restore their crispness. You can also use an oven for reheating; just place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

For a quick solution, using a microwave is also an option. However, keep in mind that this method may make the pancakes softer rather than crispy. If you choose to microwave them, cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ What can I serve with scallion pancakes?

These pancakes pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade garlic sauce.

→ Can I freeze the pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze cooked pancakes. Just ensure they are cooled completely and stored in an airtight container.

→ Are scallion pancakes vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are a delightful snack or appetizer, featuring layers of flaky pastry and aromatic scallions.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: World Taste Recipe Collection

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pancakes

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 3/4 cup boiling water
  3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  4. 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  5. 1 cup scallions, finely chopped

For Dipping Sauce

  1. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  2. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  3. 1 teaspoon sesame oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add boiling water while stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 02

Once the dough has rested, divide it into four equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with chopped scallions. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then coil it into a spiral shape and flatten gently.

Step 03

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place the flattened pancake in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Step 04

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Serve alongside the pancakes.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 4g