There’s a special kind of joy that fills the kitchen when the first crispy scallion pancake hits the hot skillet. I remember the first time I bravely ventured beyond takeout and decided to make these delicious Cong You Bing from scratch. As the sizzling sound danced through the air, I was captivated by the aroma of fresh scallions mingling with a hint of toasted sesame oil. This easy-to-make vegan recipe is like a love letter to crispy, flaky indulgence—perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a brunch delight that will impress anyone at your table.
With just a few everyday ingredients and no fancy equipment, you can create these golden-brown treasures that are bursting with flavor. Plus, the optional variations let you tailor them to your taste, making them versatile enough for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to experience the magic of homemade scallion pancakes that will leave fast food in the dust!
Why Are Scallion Pancakes So Irresistible?
Crispy Layers: Each bite reveals a wonderful contrast between crispy exteriors and flaky, tender insides that just melt in your mouth.
Simplicity: With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this dish is easy enough for any home cook to master.
Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy these delicious snacks without compromising your dietary choices—they’re inherently vegan!
Customizable: From spicy chili flakes to savory garlic, the optional flavor additions can cater to your unique taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for brunch or an appetizer, these pancakes are sure to impress your family and friends.
For more ways to spice up your breakfast table, check out my tips on enhancing your favorite brunch dishes.
Scallion Pancakes Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides the essential base for creating the perfect flaky texture.
• Hot water – Activates the flour’s starches, leading to a pliable and easy-to-handle dough.
• Salt – Elevates the overall flavor, making each pancake a savory delight.
For the Filling
• Scallions – The star of the show; ensures that each bite is bursting with vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Oil (for brushing) – Adds moisture and helps achieve the crispy layers; sesame oil enhances flavor beautifully.
For Frying
• Vegetable oil – Necessary for frying, creating a golden-brown, crispy exterior; feel free to use peanut or canola oil as alternatives.
Optional Seasonings
• Sesame oil – Mixing this into the dough or topping can deepen the flavor profile.
• Chili flakes – Add some spice for those who love a kick in their savory scallion pancakes.
• Garlic powder – For an extra punch, incorporating minced garlic into the scallion mix can elevate the taste.
These simple ingredients are all you need to make delightful scallion pancakes at home, with endless possibilities for personalization and fun!
How to Make Scallion Pancakes
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add hot water, mixing as you go until a dough begins to form. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic; then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Make the Scallion Oil Paste: While the dough rests, finely chop the scallions. In a small bowl, mix the chopped scallions with sesame oil and, if desired, a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor.
- Divide and Roll: Once rested, divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush the surface with oil and generously sprinkle the scallion mixture on top.
- Roll, Coil, and Flatten: Roll each rectangle tightly into a log. Then, coil the log into a spiral shape and gently flatten it to form a pancake, ensuring the layers are well-defined.
- Fry Until Crispy: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and achieve a delightful crispiness.
- Serve Hot: Once perfectly cooked, cut the pancakes into wedges and serve them immediately while they’re warm, preferably with your favorite dipping sauce.
Optional: For added flair, serve these delicious scallion pancakes with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Scallion Pancakes Variations
Customize your scallion pancakes with these delightful twists to enhance flavor and texture!
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes to the scallion mixture for a fiery surprise that wakes up your taste buds.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Mix minced garlic into the scallion paste to create a robust flavor profile that garlic enthusiasts crave.
- Cheesy Bliss: Sprinkle grated vegan cheese into the filling before rolling for a gooey, savory twist that melts beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
- Whole Wheat Option: Swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add heartiness and a nutty flavor, creating a healthier variant.
- Sesame Surprise: Combine sesame oil into the dough itself for a toasted undertone that complements the scallions perfectly.
- Savory Greens: Integrate finely chopped spinach or kale along with the scallions for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Crunchy Texture: Toss in toasted sesame seeds with the scallions for a delightful crunch that adds complexity to every bite.
What to Serve with Scallion Pancakes?
The perfect scallion pancake deserves delightful companions to create a meal that sings with flavors and textures.
- Soy Sauce: A classic pairing, its salty depth enhances the savory notes of the pancakes, making each bite exciting. Just dip or drizzle to enjoy.
- Chili Oil: Add a spicy kick to your bites with this vibrant condiment, transforming the pancake experience into a fiery delight that your taste buds will adore.
- Crunchy Vegetable Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumber, carrots, and lettuce dressed lightly with rice vinegar adds a crisp contrast to the flaky pancakes. The freshness elevates the entire dish.
- Miso Soup: The warm, umami-rich broth serves as a comforting accompaniment, perfect for dipping and balancing the crispy texture of the pancakes.
- Fried Egg: Top a pancake with a perfectly cooked fried egg for a brunch-style treat that adds richness and protein, making it an indulgent yet wholesome option.
- Spring Rolls: Their crispy outer layer and fresh vegetable filling mirror the textures of scallion pancakes, creating a harmonious combo that’s perfect for appetizer lovers.
- Green Tea: Treat yourself to a warm cup that cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the overall experience of this savory dish.
- Sesame Noodles: A plate of cold sesame noodles can bring a delightful contrast to the warm pancakes, combining savory and nutty flavors that complement each other beautifully.
- Fruit Compote: For a dessert twist, serve with a side of fruit compote for a sweet contrast, with juicy and tart notes balancing the savory goodness of the pancakes.
How to Store and Freeze Scallion Pancakes
Fridge: Store cooked scallion pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked scallion pancakes separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed for crispy results.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, use a skillet or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Heat on medium until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows flavors to develop and makes meal prep a breeze.
Expert Tips for Scallion Pancakes
- Use Hot Water: This makes the dough pliable and easy to roll thinly, which is essential for achieving the flaky texture of scallion pancakes.
- Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes relaxes the gluten, ensuring even cooking and preventing shrinkage.
- Spiral Rolling Technique: Don’t skip this step! The spiral shape is crucial in creating those signature flaky layers that will elevate your pancakes.
- Watch the Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature to ensure crispy results. Too low, and they may turn greasy; too high, and they risk burning.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative! Mix in chili flakes or minced garlic in the scallion paste for a flavorful twist that suits your palate best.
Make Ahead Options
These scallion pancakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can prepare the dough and scallion filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the flour, salt, and water to form the dough, and store it wrapped tightly in plastic. The scallion mixture can be prepped and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the pancakes and fry them to achieve that irresistible crispy texture. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy all the flavors and textures of fresh scallion pancakes with minimal effort, making mealtime significantly easier!
Scallion Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right scallions?
Absolutely! When selecting scallions, look for ones with bright green leaves and firm, white bulbs. Avoid any that have dark spots or wilted greens, as they will affect the flavor. For the best results, try to use scallions that are fresh and crisp.
How should I store leftover scallion pancakes?
To keep your cooked scallion pancakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. It’s best to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking and preserve their crispy texture.
Can I freeze scallion pancakes?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked scallion pancakes to enjoy later. Simply stack them with parchment paper between each pancake and seal them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to fry them, cook directly from frozen, adjusting the frying time by a minute or two.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very! If you find your dough is too sticky while kneading, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little extra flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. However, be careful not to add too much, as it may make the pancakes tough. Remember, the dough should be smooth and pliable but not overly sticky.
Can scallion pancakes be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version of scallion pancakes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients, like baking powder if used, are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but should still yield a delicious result.
Is it safe to feed scallion pancakes to dogs?
While scallion pancakes are delicious for people, be cautious with pets. Onions and scallions belong to the allium family and can be toxic to dogs and cats, so it’s best to avoid giving them any. Stick to pet-safe treats for your furry friends to ensure their safety.
Savory Scallion Pancakes: Crispy Vegan Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add hot water, mixing until a dough begins to form. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic; cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- While the dough rests, finely chop the scallions. In a small bowl, mix the chopped scallions with sesame oil and chili flakes for added flavor.
- Once rested, divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush the surface with oil and sprinkle the scallion mixture on top.
- Roll each rectangle tightly into a log, coil the log into a spiral shape, and gently flatten it to form a pancake, ensuring defined layers.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, cut the pancakes into wedges and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
