Chinese cuisine is renowned for its diversity, with each dish offering a unique blend of flavors, textures, and ingredients. One dish that truly exemplifies the beauty of Chinese street food is Shou Zhua Bing. These crispy Chinese pancakes, often served as a snack or breakfast item, are loved for their flaky texture, savory filling, and rich aroma. Known also as scallion pancakes, this recipe features a delicate balance of dough and fragrant scallions that make every bite an experience worth savoring.
If you’re new to Chinese food, particularly the crispy and satisfying delights like Chinese pancakes, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Shou Zhua Bing from scratch and discuss the various ways it can be enjoyed in Chinese cuisine.
What Is Shou Zhua Bing?
Shou Zhua Bing, also known as scallion pancakes, is a type of Chinese pancake that has a crisp, golden-brown exterior, combined with a chewy and slightly oily interior. Traditionally, the dough is rolled into a thin circle, then brushed with oil and sprinkled with finely chopped scallions (green onions). After rolling and twisting the dough, it is pan-fried until it becomes crispy.
These pancakes are a perfect example of stuffed breads in Chinese cuisine, where a simple dough is transformed into something delicious with just a few basic ingredients. While they are often served as a snack or a savory breakfast item, Shou Zhua Bing can also accompany meals in Chinese restaurants, sometimes served as a starter or side dish.
History of Shou Zhua Bing
The origins of Shou Zhua Bing are somewhat unclear, as with many classic dishes in Chinese food culture. Some believe that the pancake has its roots in northern China, where wheat-based products like Chinese buns (baozi) and bread pancakes are more common. Others suggest that the dish evolved from early forms of Chinese won ton, which are known for being wrapped, twisted, and fried.
What is certain is that Shou Zhua Bing has become a staple in Chinese street food culture. These Chinese pancakes are sold at street carts, produce markets, and even in restaurants, offering people a quick, satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item or as a quick snack during a busy day, Shou Zhua Bing remains one of the most popular and beloved dishes in Chinese culinary tradition.
Ingredients for Shou Zhua Bing
Before diving into the preparation of these crispy Chinese pancakes, it’s important to gather the right ingredients. Making Shou Zhua Bing at home requires some basic ingredients that are readily available at most Asian grocery stores or supermarkets with an international food aisle.
For the Dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup of warm water
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1 tbsp of vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 1 bunch of fresh scallions (green onions), finely chopped
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil (for brushing)
- Salt to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying the pancakes)
These ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create the crispy, savory flavors of Shou Zhua Bing. Some variations of the dish include additional fillings, such as minced pork or chicken, for a more substantial meal, but the traditional recipe focuses on the scallion filling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shou Zhua Bing
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by making the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing as you go, until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough for about 5–8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to make it too dry.
Once the dough is kneaded, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period is essential, as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Roll the Dough into Thin Circles
After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions—usually about 6–8 pieces, depending on how large you want the pancakes. Roll each piece into a small ball and then flatten each ball into a thin circle using a rolling pin. The circle should be about 6–8 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Brush with Oil and Add Scallions
Now, take a brush or spoon and lightly brush each dough circle with a thin layer of vegetable oil. Sprinkle the finely chopped scallions evenly over the entire surface. Add a pinch of salt to taste. The amount of scallions you use will vary depending on your preference, but traditionally, a generous handful of scallions is used.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
Once the dough is covered in oil and scallions, roll the circle into a log, similar to how you would roll a jelly roll. After that, twist the rolled dough into a spiral shape, like a cinnamon roll. Tuck the end of the dough under to seal it.
Step 5: Flatten the Dough Again
Take the twisted dough and gently flatten it with your hands or a rolling pin into a pancake-like shape. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid squishing the layers of dough.
Step 6: Fry the Pancakes
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the rolled dough and fry each pancake for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Press down gently on the pancake while frying to ensure that it crisps up evenly.
Once both sides are crisp and golden brown, remove the Shou Zhua Bing from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Shou Zhua Bing to cool slightly before slicing it into wedges. Serve them warm, with soy sauce or chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavor of this traditional Chinese street food.
Variations and Tips for Shou Zhua Bing
- Add Protein: For a heartier version of Shou Zhua Bing, you can add fillings like cooked minced chicken or pork to the dough along with the scallions. Simply cook the meat with seasonings such as soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and then layer it on top of the dough before rolling it up.
- Stuffed Breads: This recipe can also be adapted to create stuffed breads with different fillings. Some variations might include adding Chinese buns (baozi) style fillings such as cooked vegetables, pickled radish, or even shrimp.
- Make Ahead: If you want to prepare the pancakes ahead of time, you can store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the rolled and shaped pancakes before frying, and fry them directly from frozen when you’re ready to serve them.
- Experiment with Fillings: While scallions are traditional, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach, cabbage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version of Shou Zhua Bing.
- Use in Chinese Feasts: These crispy Chinese pancakes make a great appetizer or side dish for a larger Chinese meal. Pair them with chicken spring rolls, won ton, or any other stuffed breads you enjoy.
Why Shou Zhua Bing is a Must-Try
Shou Zhua Bing is more than just a dish; it represents the heart of Chinese street food culture. It’s a perfect blend of textures, from the crispy exterior to the soft, chewy layers inside. It’s also incredibly versatile, and the flavor profile can be adjusted to suit different preferences.
If you’re new to Chinese cuisine or want to learn more about dishes like Chinese pancakes and scallion pancakes, making Shou Zhua Bing is a great starting point. This dish connects you to the rich traditions of Chinese produce markets and street food vendors who have been perfecting these recipes for centuries.
Whether you’re craving a quick snack or an introduction to Chinese Bun culture, Shou Zhua Bing delivers a satisfying, crispy experience that everyone can enjoy.
