Crispy Savory Scallion Pancakes

Featured in Appetizing Starters.

Craving authentic Chinese street food? These Scallion Pancakes are surprisingly easy to make! The key is resting the dough and using plenty of scallions. First, make a simple dough with flour and water. Let it rest, then roll it out thinly. Brush with oil, spread with a scallion mixture (scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices), roll into a log, coil, and flatten. Fry in oil until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with chili oil!

Casey
Updated on Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:59:08 GMT
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A white plate with two pieces of food on it. | cookingwithcasey.com

Craving a taste of authentic Chinese street food these scallion pancakes pack the ideal combo of crispy layers savory edges and loads of fresh onion flavor Every bite reminds me of late-night markets in Guangzhou where vendors flip steaming pancakes straight from sizzling griddles

The first time I tried these at home my kitchen filled with that amazing toasted onion scent Suddenly they became my go-to for quick brunches and fun family snacks

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: gives the pancake structure and tender bite Always choose unbleached flour if you can for the cleanest taste
  • Boiling water: ensures tenderness allowing the layers to puff and separate
  • Room temperature water: helps bring the dough together for the best consistency You might need a touch more or less depending on humidity
  • Salt: for seasoning throughout
  • Vegetable oil: makes the dough supple and aids with crisping during frying Opt for a neutral oil that handles high heat well
  • Cooking oil: is used for both brushing and pan-frying Go for something light like sunflower or canola
  • Chopped scallions: bring fresh pungent flavor Always use only the green parts for the best texture and mildness
  • Chinese five-spice powder: is optional but adds warmth and aromatic depth Check the blend for freshness by giving it a sniff
  • Light soy sauce: seasons the filling with savory notes Choose high-quality for the cleanest taste
  • Sesame oil: is a must for that classic toasty flavor Always use toasted sesame oil and store it in a cool place
  • Chili oil: adds a spicy kick Drizzle to taste or leave it out for a milder version
  • Optional garnishes: fresh green onion and coriander These add color and brightness right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Dough:
Combine flour and salt in a large bowl Add boiling water and quickly mix with chopsticks until you see a shaggy mass Add room temperature water and knead until you have a smooth and elastic dough This takes about five to seven minutes Adjust flour or water as needed but go slowly The dough should be soft not sticky
Rest the Dough:
Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest at least thirty minutes Resting is crucial for soft layers
Prep the Scallion Filling:
While the dough rests mix scallions five-spice powder soy sauce sesame oil and salt in a bowl The mixture should be juicy but not soggy
Divide and Shape:
Cut rested dough into four or six equal balls Flour your surface and roll each into a thin circle about eight to ten inches
Brush and Fill:
Spread about one tablespoon of oil across the surface Scatter scallion mixture evenly onto each pancake leaving a half-inch border
Roll and Coil:
Starting at the edge roll the dough tightly into a log Pinch the ends and coil into a spiral Tuck the tail under and flatten gently with your palm
Repeat with each dough ball:
Cook to Crisp Perfection:
Heat a tablespoon or two of oil in a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium When hot add a pancake Cook three to four minutes per side pressing gently until browned and crisp
Slice and Serve:
Move pancake to a board Slice into wedges Serve hot with chili oil or your favorite dipping sauce Optionally scatter green onions or coriander over the top for a fresh finish
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A plate of food with a white napkin underneath. | cookingwithcasey.com

Storage Tips

Leftover pancakes keep well in the fridge for up to two days Wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container For best results reheat in a dry skillet over medium low heat to crisp them back up Avoid microwaving as this softens the crust For long storage freeze uncooked pancakes wrapped individually and cook straight from the freezer with just a few extra minutes per side

Ingredient Substitutions

No Chinese five-spice Swap with a tiny dash of ground white pepper or just double down on scallions

No sesame oil Use a splash of regular toasted oil or leave it out for a simpler finish

Want it heartier Try a few spoons of cooked and chopped shrimp or pork added to your scallion filling

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hot from the pan as a snack appetizer or side dish Try tearing them to dip in chili crisp or light soy sauce They pair beautifully with congee or alongside a bright cucumber salad For a fun fusion brunch top with a fried egg and a swirl of sriracha

Cultural Context

Scallion pancakes go way back in Chinese culinary history with roots in northern regions Every region has its own style but all take pride in those distinct flaky layers In street markets you find them both thick and thin stacked tall or folded into wedges Since I was a kid they have been a favorite for Lunar New Year mornings and simple family reunions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get the pancakes extra crispy?

Make sure your pan is hot and use enough oil! Press down on the pancake with a spatula while it's cooking to ensure even contact with the pan and maximum crispiness.

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for these pancakes, but you could experiment with bread flour for a slightly chewier texture. Avoid using cake flour, as it won't provide enough structure.

→ What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable. Be careful not to add too much, or the pancakes will be tough.

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can freeze the rolled and coiled pancakes before cooking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Cooked pork, shrimp, kimchi, or even just a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a delicious twist.

→ Is there a substitute for Chinese five-spice powder?

While Chinese five-spice adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with a pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. It won't be exactly the same, but it will provide a similar warm, aromatic note.

Crispy Savory Chinese Scallion Pancakes

Enjoy homemade flaky, layered scallion pancakes with this easy method. Simple savory goodness.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Tasty Snacks

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Chinese

Yield: 4 Servings (4-6 pancakes)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Dough Components

01 300g unbleached all-purpose flour
02 120 ml boiling water
03 60 ml room temperature water
04 5g fine salt
05 15 ml vegetable oil (for dough)

→ Scallion Filling

06 200g chopped scallions (green parts only)
07 15 ml Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
08 15 ml light soy sauce
09 7.5 ml sesame oil
10 1.25g fine salt

→ For Cooking and Garnish

11 60-90 ml cooking oil (for brushing and pan-frying)
12 15 ml chili oil (for serving, adjust to taste)
13 Fresh chopped green onion and coriander (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 300g unbleached all-purpose flour with 5g fine salt.

Step 02

Pour in the 120 ml boiling water and swiftly mix with chopsticks or a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Add the 60 ml room temperature water and continue to mix until the dough coalesces. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is excessively sticky, incorporate small amounts of flour; if too dry, add water teaspoon by teaspoon.

Step 03

Cover the kneaded dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to relax the gluten for optimal flakiness.

Step 04

While the dough rests, in a small bowl, combine the 200g chopped scallions (green parts only), 15 ml Chinese five-spice powder (if using), 15 ml light soy sauce, 7.5 ml sesame oil, and 1.25g fine salt. Mix thoroughly.

Step 05

Divide the rested dough into 4 to 6 equal portions.

Step 06

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough into a thin oval or circle, approximately 20-25 cm in diameter. Brush the surface evenly with approximately 15 ml vegetable oil.

Step 07

Spread a generous and uniform layer of the prepared scallion mixture over the oiled dough, ensuring a small border remains along the edges.

Step 08

Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the ends firmly to seal. Coil the log into a spiral, tucking the end securely underneath, then gently press down to slightly flatten the spiral.

Step 09

Continue the rolling, filling, and coiling process for all remaining dough portions.

Step 10

Heat 30-45 ml cooking oil in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Carefully place one pancake in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Gently press down on the pancake with a spatula during cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 11

Remove the cooked pancake from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice it into wedges. Serve immediately with 15 ml chili oil (or to taste) and an optional garnish of fresh chopped green onion and coriander.

Notes

  1. The dough should be soft and pliable. Adjust water or flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
  2. Do not omit the resting time! It is crucial for gluten relaxation, resulting in a more tender and flaky pancake.
  3. Customize the amount of scallions and five-spice powder to your preference. A pinch of white pepper can also enhance the flavor.
  4. Uncooked, rolled, and coiled pancakes can be frozen. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  5. Explore variations by incorporating other fillings such as cooked pork, shrimp, or kimchi for a heartier pancake.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chopsticks or spatula
  • Damp cloth or plastic wrap
  • Small bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Gluten (from all-purpose flour)
  • Soy (from light soy sauce)
  • Sesame (from sesame oil)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 8 g