As the sizzling sound of dough hitting a hot skillet fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement. Crispy Vegan Scallion Pancakes, or Cong You Bing, offer an irresistible balance of crunchy and chewy that makes them utterly addictive. Not only do these pancakes serve as a delicious appetizer or snack, but they also come together quickly and are completely vegan, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. With the savory aroma of scallions wafting through the air, you’ll find yourself transported to the bustling streets of China, where these treats are a beloved staple. So, are you ready to whip up your own batch and impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are These Pancakes So Irresistible?
Crispy, flaky texture: Your taste buds will rejoice at the delightful contrast between the golden, crunchy exterior and the soft, chewy inside of each scallion pancake, creating a unique snacking experience.
Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Vegan-friendly: This recipe retains all the mouthwatering flavors while being completely vegan, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Dipping sauce delight: Paired with a zingy dipping sauce, these pancakes can elevate your appetizer game and impress even the most discerning foodie. Serve them alongside something like a fresh Vibrant Celery Salad for a complete meal!
Cultural connection: Experience a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen, bringing a piece of street food culture to your dining table.
Scallion Pancakes Ingredients
For the Pancakes
• All Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pancakes; for a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free flour.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; using sea salt can add a more complex taste.
• Hot Water – Activates the flour, creating pliable dough; ensure it’s hot but not boiling.
• Vegetable Oil – Prevents sticking during cooking; substitute with sesame oil for an extra depth of flavor.
• Scallions (Green Onions) – Adds savory flavor and texture; feel free to use more for a stronger taste.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Coconut Aminos – A gluten-free soy sauce alternative; regular soy sauce works if gluten is not a concern.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to the dipping sauce; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds nutty flavor to the sauce; can be omitted if desired.
• Garlic – Offers robust flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds heat to the sauce; adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallion Pancakes with Dipping Sauce aka Cong You Bing
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually pour in hot water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until a shaggy dough forms, approximately 1-2 minutes. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
Step 2: Scallion Filling
While the dough is resting, wash and finely slice the scallions. Aim for small, uniform pieces to distribute their flavor evenly. Set the sliced scallions aside, letting their vibrant green color and fresh aroma heighten your anticipation of making the scallion pancakes. This step takes just a few minutes, keeping your prep efficient.
Step 3: Pancake Formation
Once the dough has rested, divide it into 4 large pieces or 6 smaller portions. Roll each piece into a circle about 8-10 inches wide on a floured surface. Brush a thin layer of vegetable oil onto the surface, then generously sprinkle the sliced scallions on top. Carefully roll each circle into a log shape, then coil it into a spiral and flatten gently with your palm to form a pancake.
Step 4: Cooking
In a non-stick skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Place the formed pancake in the skillet and fry for roughly 2-3 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the pancake and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring both sides are deliciously crispy and evenly golden. Repeat with remaining pancakes, adding more oil as needed.
Step 5: Dipping Sauce
While the scallion pancakes cool slightly, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine coconut aminos, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to blend the flavors, then cover the bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld. This contrasting sauce perfectly complements the warm, crispy scallion pancakes, enhancing their delightful texture and taste.
Scallion Pancakes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and personalize these scallion pancakes to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option without losing that crispy goodness.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or dill into the dough for vibrant flavors that will elevate the pancakes.
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Add Crispy Garlic: Incorporate minced garlic into the pancake filling before cooking for an additional layer of flavor that will make your mouth water.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes directly into your dough for pancakes with a spicy surprise that will tickle your taste buds delightfully.
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Sesame Crunch: Roll the scallion pancakes with sesame seeds before frying for an extra texture and nutty flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
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Savory Add-Ins: Consider adding finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the filling for a nutrient boost and extra texture.
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Flavorful Oils: Swap out vegetable oil for the more fragrant toasted sesame oil to enhance the pancakes with a nutty aroma and taste.
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Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Enhance the dipping sauce by adding a touch of honey or agave syrup to balance the acidity of the vinegar with a hint of sweetness. Serve your pancakes with something like a fresh Cranberry Brie Tart for a delightful pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Vegan Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and scallion filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its elasticity. You can also pre-cut the scallions and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply roll out the dough with the scallions, fry until crispy, and serve hot. With these make-ahead tips, you can create the same delicious results with less stress, allowing you to savor this delightful snack at your convenience!
How to Store and Freeze Scallion Pancakes
Fridge: Store leftover scallion pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scallion pancakes individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat frozen pancakes in an air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes or on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the pancakes a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Enjoy freshly made scallion pancakes with dipping sauce!
What to Serve with Crispy Vegan Scallion Pancakes?
There’s a whole world of flavors waiting to complement your delicious scallion pancakes that will leave your taste buds dancing.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie adds a nutritious crunch, perfectly balancing the pancake’s chewy texture while soaking up any leftover dipping sauce.
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Roasted Bok Choy: With its tender leaves and slightly crispy edges, bok choy brings a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with scallion-filled goodness.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing is a wonderful way to cut through the richness of the pancakes, adding a delightful crunch.
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Cold Noodle Salad: Serve a vibrant cold noodle salad alongside your pancakes for a delightful blend of flavors, featuring crisp vegetables and a savory sauce that enhances your meal.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: For an extra kick, offer sweet chili sauce for dipping, providing a contrasting sweetness that pairs incredibly with the savory pancakes.
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Chilled Green Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of chilled green tea; its soothing notes elevate the entire dining experience, providing a contrast to the crunch!
Let your creativity flow, and you’ll be surprised by how these delightful additions will elevate your dining!
Expert Tips for Scallion Pancakes
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Resting is Key: Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes helps relax the gluten, leading to a more tender scallion pancake. Don’t skip this step!
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Flipping Technique: Use a thin spatula to gently flip the pancakes to avoid breaking them. This ensures both sides achieve that perfect golden color.
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Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Frying a couple of pancakes at a time allows for even cooking and helps maintain that signature crispy texture.
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Flavor Boost: Consider adding some minced garlic or herbs directly into the dough for an extra layer of flavor in your scallion pancakes.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have any pancakes left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, use an air fryer or a skillet for a crisp finish.
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Dipping Sauce Adventure: Experiment with the dipping sauce by adding ginger or scallions for a flavor twist that perfectly complements your scallion pancakes.
Scallion Pancakes with Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for scallion pancakes?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture and flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it’s suitable for dough-making.
How do I know if the scallions are fresh?
Look for scallions that have bright green tops, as well as firm, white stems. Avoid any that are wilting or have dark spots; these indicate they are past their prime. Fresh scallions make all the difference in flavor!
How should I store leftover scallion pancakes?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain their crispiness. They can also be reheated and enjoyed as a tasty snack!
Can I freeze scallion pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the pancakes individually on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, reheat in an air fryer or skillet.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky after mixing, simply sprinkle a small amount of flour onto your work surface and continue kneading until it reaches a smooth consistency. Avoid adding too much flour at once as it can lead to tough pancakes.
Are there alternatives for the dipping sauce?
Yes! If you’re looking for different flavors, consider adding a touch of ginger or swapping out coconut aminos for soy sauce if gluten is not a concern. You can also customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Crispy Scallion Pancakes with Dipping Sauce You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually pour in hot water while stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Wash and finely slice the scallions, setting them aside.
- Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Roll each piece into a circle. Brush with oil and sprinkle scallions on top. Roll into a log, coil into a spiral, and flatten gently.
- Heat oil in a skillet. Fry each pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- For the dipping sauce, combine coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Let sit for 10 minutes.
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