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Chinese Pancakes

Chinese pancakes, often referred to as "bing" in Chinese cuisine
Prep Time1 hour
Active Time20 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese
Cost: $2

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl.
  • Clean kitchen towel.
  • Rolling pin.
  • Round cookie cutter or a drinking glass.
  • Non-stick pan or skillet.

Materials

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  • 3/4 cup of hot water.
  • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil optional.
  • Additional flour for dusting.

Instructions

Making the Pancake Dough:

  • Combine Flour and Salt: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center.
  • Add Hot Water: Carefully pour the hot water into the well. Use chopsticks or a fork to gradually mix the water into the flour until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed.
  • Rest the Dough: Form the dough into a ball and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Rolling and Cooking the Pancakes:

  • Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions, each about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
  • Roll Out the Pancakes: Flatten a dough ball with your palm and use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin, circular pancake. Aim for a diameter of about 6-8 inches. If desired, lightly brush the pancake with sesame oil for extra flavor.
  • Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat. Place a rolled-out pancake onto the pan and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until small air bubbles start to form on the surface.
  • Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes, until both sides are lightly golden brown and slightly crispy.
  • Stack and Keep Warm: Once cooked, stack the pancakes on a plate and cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and prevent them from drying out.

Serving and Enjoying:

  • Savory Delights: Use the pancakes as a base for classic dishes like Peking duck or mu shu pork. Simply spread hoisin sauce on the pancake, add your choice of filling, and roll it up like a burrito.
  • Sweet Treats: For a sweet twist, fill the pancakes with ingredients like red bean paste, sweet taro, or fresh fruits. Roll them up and enjoy as a delightful dessert.