Name: Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 cups unshifted all-purpose flour (about 300g); 1/2 cup hot boiling water; 1/4 cup room temperature water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp vegetable cooking oil; 2 cups chopped scallion (green part only); 1 tbsp Chinese five spice powder (optional); 1/4 tsp salt; 4–6 tbsp cooking oil (2 tbsp for brushing and the rest for pan-frying); 1 tbsp light soy sauce; 1/2 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp chili oil; Chopped green onion and coriander for garnish

If you are craving a crispy, chewy, and utterly addictive snack, the Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These golden delights boast layers of flaky dough infused with fresh scallions and a subtle hint of five-spice, pan-fried to perfection. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory flavors, crispy texture, and that irresistible aroma that will have you coming back for more. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or a quick snack, this recipe guarantees a satisfying experience that captures the heart of traditional Chinese street food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with soft, crumbly white cheese, with two wooden chopsticks resting on the side, lifted slightly above the cheese. Above the bowl, a woman's hand holds a honey dipper dripping golden honey over the cheese, creating a shiny, sticky layer on the top. The background is a white marble surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe lies in its simplicity. With everyday pantry staples and fresh scallions, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect pancake texture and flavor. From the flour that forms the dough to the oils that create those crispy layers, every component works harmoniously to bring these savory pancakes to life.

All-purpose flour: Unshifted flour provides the right structure for chewy, layered pancakes.
Hot boiling water: Helps to partially cook the flour, which makes the dough tender and easier to roll out.
Room temperature water: Balances the dough moisture without making it too sticky.
Salt: Enhances flavor in both the dough and filling.
Vegetable cooking oil: Softens the dough and gives richness while frying.
Chopped scallions: The star ingredient that imparts fresh, vibrant green notes and a delicate onion flavor.
Chinese five spice powder (optional): Adds a warm, complex depth that complements the scallions beautifully.
Light soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami kick in the dipping sauce.
Sesame oil: Brings a toasty aroma and subtle nutty flavor to the dipping sauce.
Chili oil: Adds a fiery, fragrant touch for those who love a bit of heat.
Chopped green onion and coriander: Perfect fresh garnishes that brighten every bite.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by mixing salt with the all-purpose flour to evenly distribute the seasoning. Gradually stir in the hot boiling water first to slightly cook the flour, then add room temperature water and vegetable oil to combine everything into a rough ball. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes — this resting period is key for developing the right texture without needing intense kneading at this stage.

Step 2: Knead and Divide

After the dough has rested, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Then divide the dough into four equal pieces and shape each into a smooth round ball. Cover them again and let them rest for another 20 to 30 minutes to relax the gluten, which will make rolling the pancakes easier.

Step 3: Assemble the Pancakes

Take one dough ball and roll it out to a rectangle about 10cm wide and 8cm tall. Brush the surface with a little oil, sprinkle Chinese five-spice powder if you’re using it, and evenly spread a generous amount of chopped scallions on top. Then, roll the rectangle up into a cylinder. Repeat this process for all four pieces.

Step 4: Shape to Layers

Gently stretch each cylinder a bit with your hands and then coil it into a snail shape, tucking the end inside to seal. Cover the formed dough rounds to prevent drying out. Now, carefully roll each snail-shaped dough into a large round pancake, using your fingers or a pan bottom to help shape it evenly without tearing. The rolling technique creates those beautiful flaky layers packed with scallion goodness.

Step 5: Pan-Fry Until Golden

Heat around two tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place one pancake in the oil and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Flip multiple times and gently press the center with a spatula to ensure even cooking. You want a crispy crust with a soft, layered interior—this signature texture makes the Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe so addictive!

Step 6: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

Mix light soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil, and a pinch of salt together for a quick dipping sauce that balances salty, nutty, and spicy flavors. Serve this alongside your fresh scallion pancakes to elevate every bite.

How to Serve Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe

A round flat pancake is held by a pair of chopsticks over a black pan. The pancake has a golden-brown crispy surface with scattered darker brown spots, and small green pieces like chopped scallions are visible inside the translucent white dough. The edges of the pancake are slightly uneven, showing its handmade texture. The background surface is white marble. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and coriander leaves on top of the hot pancakes for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. These garnishes add brightness that complements the savory and crispy pancakes perfectly.

Side Dishes

Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe pairs beautifully with light and refreshing sides like cucumber salad or a warm bowl of hot and sour soup. These sides balance the richness of the pancakes and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, cut the pancakes into small wedges and arrange them on a rustic platter with dipping sauces in individual bowls. You can also serve them wrapped in lettuce leaves with a dab of sauce for a fun and interactive experience that anyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To avoid sogginess, place parchment paper between stacked pancakes.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked or cooked scallion pancakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. Frozen pancakes keep well for up to one month, making it easy to enjoy this Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe anytime you crave it.

Reheating

Reheat pancakes in a hot skillet with a little oil over medium heat to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy. Gently warming them this way brings back their signature flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour for this recipe?

Yes, unshifted all-purpose flour works perfectly to create the right dough consistency and chewy texture that Chinese scallion pancakes are known for.

Is Chinese five spice powder necessary?

It is optional but highly recommended. The five-spice powder adds a subtle complexity that enhances the overall flavor of the pancakes.

How can I make the pancakes extra crispy?

Use enough oil when pan-frying and cook on medium heat, flipping several times. This ensures the pancake crisps evenly without burning.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products—just flour, water, scallions, and seasonings.

What is the best way to eat scallion pancakes?

Enjoy them hot straight from the pan with dipping sauce. They can be eaten on their own or paired with light salads or soups for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Making this Chinese Scallion Pancakes Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, especially when you savor that first delightful bite of crispy, scallion-studded layers. It’s a perfect dish to share with family and friends or enjoy as your own special treat. Don’t hesitate—grab those scallions and start cooking. I promise this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!