Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing) Recipe
Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes, or Cong You Bing, are a beloved savory street food featuring a flaky, golden-brown exterior and a flavorful filling of finely chopped scallions. Made from a simple dough of flour and hot water, these pancakes are pan-fried to perfection, delivering layers of crispy texture and aromatic scallion taste. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they are best served warm with a tangy soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 scallion pancakes 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup hot water (plus more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Extra flour for rolling out the dough
Filling and Cooking
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped scallions (green parts only)
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- Sesame oil for brushing
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour. Slowly pour in the hot water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- Divide and Roll: After resting, divide the dough into four equal portions. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one piece into a thin rectangle. Imperfections are fine, as these pancakes have a rustic charm.
- Add the Filling: Brush the rolled-out dough with sesame oil, sprinkle evenly with salt and spread a generous handful of chopped scallions across the surface.
- Roll and Coil: Roll the rectangle lengthwise like a jelly roll, then coil it into a spiral shape, tucking the end underneath. Gently flatten the coil with your palm.
- Roll Again: Use a rolling pin to gently roll the coil into a pancake about ¼-inch thick. Be gentle so some scallions may peek through the dough.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Press lightly with a spatula during cooking to ensure even browning. Repeat this step with the remaining dough portions.
- Slice and Serve: Let the pancakes cool slightly, then cut into wedges. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce mixed with vinegar and chili oil.
Notes
- Make sure the dough rests to ensure a tender, workable texture.
- Use only the green parts of the scallions for the best flavor and color.
- Press the pancakes lightly while frying for a crispier result.
- These pancakes are best served fresh and warm but can be reheated in a skillet.
- Adjust oil quantity as needed to avoid greasiness while ensuring crispiness.
Keywords: scallion pancakes, Chinese pancakes, Cong You Bing, savory pancakes, crispy pancakes, street food, appetizer, snack
