Savory garlic and green onion pancakes are a deliciously crispy, soft, and aromatic dish, popular in many cultures worldwide, especially in Asian cuisine. The combination of green onions, minced garlic, and butter, all enclosed in a dough that’s pan-fried to golden perfection, creates a savory pancake that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether as a side dish or a snack, these pancakes are a flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. With the slight sweetness from sugar, the depth of garlic, and the fresh flavor of green onions, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this recipe perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.
Preparation Time
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 25g green onion, finely chopped
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 3g (1 tsp) salt
- 3g (1 tsp) sugar
- 18g (1 tbsp) minced garlic
- 10g (1 tbsp) melted unsalted butter
- 380ml water
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Stir them together to ensure the dry ingredients are well mixed.
- Gradually add the water into the flour mixture while stirring continuously with a spoon or chopsticks. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
- Once the water is added, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add more water, a tablespoon at a time.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period helps to relax the gluten and makes rolling out the dough easier.
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Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is resting, finely chop the green onions and set them aside.
- Mince the garlic and heat the melted butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the garlic to the butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the garlic is sautéed, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Add the green onions to the garlic butter mixture and mix well.
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Shape the Pancakes:
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into 6 equal pieces for individual pancakes.
- Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a small disk, about 3 inches in diameter, using your fingers or a rolling pin.
- Brush each flattened dough disk with the garlic and green onion butter mixture.
- Roll the disk into a log, then coil it into a tight spiral shape, like a cinnamon roll.
- Gently flatten the coiled dough with your hands or a rolling pin to form a pancake shape, making sure it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
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Fry the Pancakes:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of cooking oil.
- Place the flattened dough into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- If the pancakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat and cook them for a bit longer to ensure they cook through without burning.
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Serve:
- Once the pancakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and drain any excess oil by placing them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve the savory garlic and green onion pancakes immediately while they’re warm and crispy.
- Optionally, garnish with additional chopped green onions or a drizzle of soy sauce for added flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 kcal (depending on the oil used for frying)
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6-8g (based on oil used)
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sodium: 250-300mg (varies based on salt and soy sauce)
These pancakes provide a nice balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making them an energy-boosting snack or meal. The healthy fats come from the butter and cooking oil, while the flour provides the base for energy.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This savory pancake recipe is common in several cultures, most notably in Chinese cuisine, where variations of the recipe exist, such as Chinese scallion pancakes, also known as Cong You Bing. These pancakes have a long history in Chinese cooking, believed to date back over a thousand years. They are traditionally enjoyed as street food, breakfast items, or snacks, found in many Chinese homes and eateries. The use of green onions, garlic, and a simple dough, which is rolled and folded to create layers, is characteristic of the technique used in making these pancakes. They are often served with soy sauce or other dipping sauces to complement the crispy texture and aromatic flavor.
The appeal of these savory pancakes extends beyond just their taste. The simplicity of the ingredients, the ease of preparation, and the flexibility of serving them with a variety of condiments have made them a beloved dish in many countries worldwide. With the addition of garlic and herbs, this recipe adds a layer of complexity, elevating it to a dish that can be enjoyed by food enthusiasts everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This savory pancake recipe is loved for its simplicity and the way it effortlessly combines a few basic ingredients into a flavor-packed dish. The green onions provide a fresh, sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the caramelized garlic and the richness of the butter. The crispy, golden exterior of the pancake is a satisfying texture that complements the soft, flavorful interior. These pancakes are perfect for anyone looking for a quick snack or a side dish that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy them with a dipping sauce or on their own, they are sure to become a favorite.
Health Benefits
- Green Onions: Rich in vitamins A and C, green onions support immune function, promote healthy skin, and improve digestion. They also contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Garlic: Garlic is known for its health benefits, including its ability to lower cholesterol levels, support heart health, and boost the immune system. It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
- Butter: While butter is a source of saturated fat, it is also rich in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and skin health. Used in moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet.
- Flour: A good source of carbohydrates, flour provides energy. Whole-wheat or alternative flours can also offer additional nutrients like fiber, which is important for digestive health.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these savory pancakes as a side dish with stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or tofu for a complete meal.
- They pair beautifully with a cup of miso soup or a fresh green salad.
- For a more filling meal, top the pancakes with a poached egg or a drizzle of soy sauce for added flavor.
- These pancakes can also be enjoyed as a light snack with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables.
Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough to get a crispy texture when frying the pancakes. You can test this by adding a small piece of dough to the pan; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
- If you prefer a spicier pancake, add a small amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to the dough mixture for a kick.
- The pancakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet to bring back their crispy texture.
- For a healthier version, you can use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter for frying.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and use a flaxseed or chia egg instead of the regular egg to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Cheese and Herb Fritters: Add grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan to the dough mixture along with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a cheesy, aromatic twist.
- Spicy Variation: Add finely chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili powder to the garlic mixture for an extra layer of heat.
- Vegetable Fritters: Add grated carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to the dough mixture for a more veggie-packed version of the pancakes.
Conclusion
These savory garlic and green onion pancakes are simple to make, yet packed with flavor, making them the perfect addition to your meal rotation. Their crispy texture and aromatic seasoning make them an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or light meal. With variations to suit every taste, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as part of a dinner spread, or enjoying them on their own with a dipping sauce, these pancakes are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, rice flour, or gluten-free flour for a different texture and nutritional profile.
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How can I make these pancakes crispier? To make the pancakes extra crispy, increase the amount of oil used for frying, and ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the pancakes.
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Can I make these pancakes in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook the pancakes just before serving for the best texture.
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Can I freeze the pancakes? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven or skillet before serving.
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How can I make these pancakes spicier? Add more chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili to the dough mixture for an extra spicy kick. You can also serve with a hot dipping sauce for added heat.