The first time I bit into a crispy, golden scallion pancake, it was as if a whole new world of flavor opened up. These delightful Cong You Bing are more than just a side; they’re a celebration of texture and taste. Imagine the gentle crunch as you take a bite, with the savory goodness of scallions layered within each flaky fold.

After a busy day, reaching for takeout feels all too easy, but there’s something incredibly satisfying about making these flatbreads from scratch. They come together with just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry—a win-win for anyone craving homemade goodness!

Perfect for pairing with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoying straight off the skillet, these scallion pancakes can quickly elevate any meal. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up and don’t require hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises to impress even the pickiest of eaters!

Why love Scallion Pancakes so much?

Crispy, The delightful crunch of these scallion pancakes will have you coming back for more.
Flavorsome, Packed with the aromatic essence of scallions, each bite is a burst of savory delight.
Quick and Easy, Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip these up in no time with just a handful of ingredients.
Versatile, Enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or even as a flavorful base for your favorite toppings.
Crowd-Pleaser, These pancakes are bound to please both family and friends, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings or casual dinners.
Experience the joy of homemade goodness and treat yourself to these fantastic scallion pancakes!

Essential Scallion Pancakes Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – a versatile base that creates the perfect texture for the pancakes.
Boiling water – helps to create a pliable dough, resulting in a tender flatbread.
Salt – enhances flavors and balances sweetness in the dough.

For the Filling

Chopped scallions – these green beauties add a fresh, aromatic flavor that makes the pancakes irresistible.
Vegetable oil – adds richness and helps to achieve that delightful crispness when cooked.

These simple yet essential ingredients are what make scallion pancakes (Cong You Bing) a beloved dish in many homes. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Scallion Pancakes

Combine the all-purpose flour and salt in a mixing bowl. This is the starting point for your dough—just make sure it’s well blended before moving on!
Add the boiling water gradually to the flour mixture. Stir gently until a soft dough forms; it should be warm, inviting, and slightly sticky.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture—this will ensure a delightful bite when cooked.
Divide the dough into equal portions, roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a flat disc, about 1/4 inch thick, and get ready to add that delicious filling!
Brush each flattened dough with vegetable oil and sprinkle the chopped scallions generously over top. The scallions are the stars of this dish, so don’t be shy!
Roll each disc into a spiral and flatten again gently. This will create those beautiful layers that make scallion pancakes so irresistible.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each flatbread for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The aroma will be heavenly!

Optional: Serve with soy sauce or chili oil to elevate your tasting experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Scallion Pancakes

Feel free to play with the flavors and textures of these scallion pancakes to make them truly your own!

Whole Wheat: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nutty flavor and added nutrition. They’ll still be deliciously fluffy!
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the scallion filling for an aromatic twist. Your taste buds will dance with joy!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough for a warm, inviting heat. This touch elevates the dish to a new level of flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, into the filling for a gooey, savory surprise. This gives the pancakes a delightful creamy texture.
Vegetarian Swap: Replace scallions with finely chopped spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-packed alternative. The vibrant flavors won’t disappoint!
Crispy Onions: Integrate crispy fried onions into the filling for an added crunch and depth of flavor, creating a satisfying texture in every bite.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or avocado oil instead of vegetable oil to make them dairy-free and deliciously rich.
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. The texture may differ slightly, but they’ll still be yummy!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a scallion pancake that perfectly suits your palate!

How to Store and Freeze Scallion Pancakes

Room Temperature: Store freshly made scallion pancakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crispy texture.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate scallion pancakes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked scallion pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, cook from frozen in a skillet over medium heat, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Enjoy your scallion pancakes fresh!

Make Ahead Options

These scrumptious scallion pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, which helps to enhance the flavor. Additionally, you can also roll and fill the pancakes with scallions, then store them stacked with parchment paper in between, for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to indulge, simply heat a skillet and cook them from the fridge straight to the pan—just like freshly made! This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious taste without the fuss on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Scallion Pancakes?

Imagine indulging in the delightful crunch of scallion pancakes paired with irresistible sides that enhance every bite.

Soy Sauce: A classic dipping sauce that balances the richness of the pancakes with its salty, savory notes.
Sweet Chili Sauce: The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, this sauce adds an exciting kick that complements the scallions beautifully.
Crispy Tempura Vegetables: Light and airy tempura adds a delightful crunch, creating a textural contrast that your taste buds will adore.
Spicy Kimchi: The tangy, fermented flavors of kimchi provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory pancake. It’s a match made in flavor heaven!
Garlic Lingonberry Sauce: A unique twist, this sauce combines sweet and savory flavors, elevating the experience of your scallion pancakes.
Easy Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a cucumber salad with a tangy dressing brings a bright balance to the meal.
Jasmine Rice: Soft and fragrant, rice is a versatile side that pairs well with scallion pancakes, making for a filling meal.
Green Tea: To drink, a warm cup of green tea offers a soothing pairing, enhancing the overall experience with its earthy tones.

Expert Tips for Scallion Pancakes

Choose the Right Flour: Use all-purpose flour for the best texture; avoid using cake flour as it won’t give the required elasticity.

Water Temperature Matters: Always use boiling water to help create a soft and pliable dough; cold water will lead to a tough pancake.

Don’t Skimp on Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes; this prevents dry or chewy pancakes.

Layering is Key: When rolling the dough into a spiral, make sure to create tight rolls to achieve those flaky layers—a must for perfect scallion pancakes.

Watch the Heat: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked; you want that golden-brown perfection.

With these tips, you’ll master the art of making scallion pancakes (Cong You Bing) that everyone will love!

Scallion Pancakes Recipe FAQs

What type of scallions should I use?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh, vibrant green scallions free from dark spots or wilting. The best ones have firm green tops and a crisp white base, which means they’ll provide that delightful flavor in your scallion pancakes.

How do I store leftover scallion pancakes?
Definitely! To keep your scallion pancakes fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in a skillet to bring back that lovely crispiness!

Can I freeze scallion pancakes?
Very much so! To freeze scallion pancakes, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring you squeeze out excess air. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best results when reheating, cook directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

What can I do if my pancake dough is too sticky?
No problem! If your dough turns out too sticky, simply sprinkle a little extra all-purpose flour onto your work surface while kneading. Be cautious not to overdo it, as you want to maintain the dough’s elasticity. Knead until you reach a smooth, workable texture, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Are scallion pancakes suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Not really! Traditional scallion pancakes are made with all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. If you or someone you’re serving has a gluten intolerance, consider using a gluten-free flour blend specifically formulated for baking to replicate that soft, pliable texture. Just remember that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Can I incorporate other vegetables into my scallion pancakes?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even herbs like cilantro. Just make sure to keep the moisture content in check so your pancakes maintain their crispiness while cooking. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!