Classic Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)
These crispy Chinese scallion pancakes, also known as Cong You Bing, are a delightful savory snack with layers of flaky dough and savory scallion flavor, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Equipment
- large bowl
- chopsticks or wooden spoon
- damp cloth or plastic wrap
- small bowl
- rolling pin
- non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
- wire rack
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt divided
Scallion Oil Paste
- 1 bunch green onions (scallions) thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil plus more for pan-frying
- 1/2 teaspoon salt divided
- white pepper Pinch (optional)
Instructions
Dough Preparation
- Combine flour and salt, then gradually add boiling water, stirring until shaggy; incorporate cold water to form a dough.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
Scallion Oil Paste
- While the dough rests, finely chop the green onions and combine them with vegetable oil, salt, and optional white pepper in a small bowl, mixing well.
Forming the Pancakes
- Divide the rested dough into 4-6 equal pieces, keeping unused portions covered.
- Roll one dough piece into a thin rectangle (about 1/8 inch thick) and spread an even layer of scallion oil paste over it, leaving a small border.
- Tightly roll the dough into a log, then coil it into a spiral, tucking the end underneath, and gently flatten it.
- Lightly flour your surface and roll the coiled dough into a flat, round pancake (1/4 to 1/3 inch thick); repeat for the remaining dough.
Cooking
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Place one or two pancakes in the hot pan, ensuring they are not crowded, and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Notes
For extra crispiness, you can gently rotate the pancakes in the pan during cooking to ensure even browning. These pancakes can be served with a dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil for an authentic experience.