Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Few foods capture the magic of simple ingredients transformed by technique quite like Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes, also known as Cong You Bing. These savory pancakes are flaky, chewy, and crisp all at once, with fragrant green onions layered throughout delicate sheets of dough.

A staple of Chinese street food and home kitchens alike, scallion pancakes are loved for their irresistible texture and comforting flavor. Unlike Western pancakes, Cong You Bing contains no eggs and relies on dough folding and oil layering to create its signature flakiness.

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Why Scallion Pancakes Are Universally Loved

Scallion pancakes stand out because they are:

• Crispy on the outside, chewy inside
• Made with pantry staples
• Naturally vegan
• Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side

They pair beautifully with dipping sauces and can be enjoyed at any time of day.

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The Secret Behind the Flaky Layers

The magic of Cong You Bing lies in technique, not complexity:

1. Hot water dough relaxes gluten for tenderness
2. Oil brushed between folds creates layers
3. Rolling and coiling builds structure
4. Pan-frying locks in crispness

Each step contributes to the final texture that makes scallion pancakes unforgettable.

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Ingredients

Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Hot water
• Salt

Filling

• Green onions (scallions), finely chopped
• Neutral oil (vegetable or canola)

Cooking

• Oil for pan-frying

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add hot water, mixing until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead lightly until smooth, then cover and rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide dough into equal portions.
5. Roll one portion into a thin circle.
6. Brush lightly with oil and sprinkle with scallions and salt.
7. Roll into a log, then coil into a spiral.
8. Flatten gently and roll into a pancake.
9. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Cook pancakes until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
11. Drain briefly and serve hot.

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Tips for Perfect Scallion Pancakes

• Resting the dough is essential
• Do not oversaturate with oil
• Cook on medium heat to avoid burning
• Press gently while frying for even browning

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Variations

Extra Crispy Version

Use a slightly higher oil level during frying.

Sesame Scallion Pancakes

Add toasted sesame oil to the filling.

Stuffed Pancakes

Add minced garlic or chili flakes for extra flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with soy sauce and black vinegar
• Pair with chili oil or sesame dipping sauce
• Enjoy alongside soups or stir-fries

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Cultural Context

Cong You Bing dates back centuries in Chinese cuisine and is commonly sold by street vendors, where the sound of sizzling oil signals something delicious nearby. It represents the beauty of simple ingredients elevated through skill and tradition.