Authentic Shanghai Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Name: Authentic Shanghai Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)
Prep time: 150 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 180 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 7/12 cup all-purpose flour; 2 bunch scallions; 1 cup warm water; 7 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp peanut oil

These crispy, flaky Shanghai-style scallion pancakes are a classic street food favorite. Made with a simple dough and a savory oil-flour roux, they feature beautiful layers and a fragrant onion aroma that pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings8 Portions

Prep Time150 Mins

Cook Time30 Mins

Difficulty

Intermediate

Ingredients

all-purpose flour
0.2 cup
scallions
2 bunch
warm water
1 cup
vegetable or peanut oil
7 tbsp
salt
0.5 tsp
peanut oil
1 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly add 1 cup of warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is excessively wet, add up to 2 tablespoons of extra flour until it is tacky but manageable.

Lightly coat the surface of the dough ball with 1 teaspoon of oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours to relax the gluten.

While the dough rests, prepare the savory roux by whisking together 3 tablespoons of oil, 1/3 cup of flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl. Set this aside.

After resting, lightly grease your work surface with a teaspoon of oil. Transfer the dough to the surface; it should be soft and very pliable. Use a little more oil on your hands if the dough sticks.

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Take one piece and roll it out into a very thin, long rectangular strip.