Scallion oil pancake (葱油饼, cōng yóu bǐng) is a popular street food in Shanghai that has gained popularity across China and even internationally. It is a delicious, crispy, and savory pancake that is made from a simple dough of flour, water, and scallions, and then fried in oil until it is golden brown.
The origins of Scallion Oil Pancake can be traced back to the Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces in China, where it was originally known as Cong You Bing. Over time, it became a popular snack in Shanghai, where it is now a staple of the local cuisine.
To make Scallion Oil Pancake, the dough is first prepared by mixing flour and water together to form a smooth dough. Chopped scallions are then added to the dough and mixed together. The dough is then rolled out into a thin layer and brushed with a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil. The pancake is then rolled up and twisted into a spiral shape before being flattened again and fried until crispy on both sides.
The resulting Scallion Oil Pancake is crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. The scallions give the pancake a savory flavor, while the soy sauce and sesame oil provide a rich umami taste. It is often served hot and fresh from the pan, and can be eaten on its own or with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or vinegar.
Scallion Oil Pancake can be found in many street food stalls and small restaurants in Shanghai, and is a popular breakfast or snack option. It is also commonly eaten as a quick and satisfying meal on-the-go.