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Delicious Filled Pancakes for Breakfast, Chinese-Inspired

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Delicious Chinese-Inspired Filled Pancakes: Jian Bing Recipe

Jian Bing, a type of Chinese breakfast pancake filled with savory ingredients, is immensely popular throughout China. This typical street food is a favorite for breakfast and can be found in food stalls all over the country. These crunchy, tasty pancakes offer a perfect mix of flavors and textures, being slightly chewy like crepes. The base is topped with various ingredients like eggs, pickled vegetables, herbs, and hoisin or chili sauce, and often includes crispy elements like fried wonton or crackers.

Bringing this traditional Chinese street food experience to your own kitchen is a tempting way to start the day. Here is a detailed recipe to make this delicious breakfast at home and enjoy it with friends or family.

Ingredients for Jian Bing

To make authentic Jian Bing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • For the Batter:
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 2 eggs
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the Filling:
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup of pickled vegetables (such as radish or carrot)
  • 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce
  • 1/4 cup of chili sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 cup of crispy fried wonton strips or crackers

Directions for Making Jian Bing

Preparing the Batter

  1. Mix the Batter:
    In a large bowl, combine the flour, water, milk, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Set it aside for a few minutes to rest.
  2. Heat the Pan:
    Preheat a non-stick skillet or a crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of oil.

Cooking the Pancakes

  1. Cook the Batter:
    Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the preheated pan, spreading it thinly and evenly with a spatula or by tilting the pan. Cook until the pancake starts to set but is not fully cooked.
  2. Add the Egg Layer:
    Pour a small amount of the beaten eggs over the pancake, spreading it evenly. Cook until the egg is set.

Adding the Fillings

  1. Add Toppings:
    Sprinkle the chopped green onions, cilantro, and pickled vegetables evenly over the egg layer. Drizzle hoisin sauce and chili sauce (if using) over the toppings.
  2. Add Crispy Elements:
    Scatter the crispy fried wonton strips or crackers over the pancake.
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Folding and Serving

  1. Fold the Pancake:
    Using a spatula, fold the pancake in half, then fold it again into a quarter.
  2. Serve Hot:
    Transfer the folded Jian Bing to a plate and serve immediately. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and fillings.

Tips for the Perfect Jian Bing

  • Batter Consistency:
    The batter should be smooth and slightly runny, similar to crepe batter. Adjust the water or milk as needed to achieve the right consistency.
  • Even Cooking:
    Spread the batter as thinly and evenly as possible to ensure even cooking. A crepe spreader can be handy for this step.
  • Fresh Herbs:
    Freshly chopped herbs like green onions and cilantro add a burst of flavor and freshness. Use them generously.
  • Crispy Toppings:
    The crispy wonton strips or crackers are essential for adding texture. Don’t skip them!

FAQs About Jian Bing

Can I Make Jian Bing Ahead of Time?

Jian Bing is best enjoyed fresh and hot. However, you can prepare the batter and chop the toppings in advance to save time in the morning.

Can I Use Other Fillings?

Absolutely! Jian Bing is versatile, and you can customize it with different fillings like shredded chicken, tofu, or additional vegetables.

Is Jian Bing Gluten-Free?

Traditional Jian Bing is not gluten-free due to the use of all-purpose flour. You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to create a gluten-free version.

Can I Make a Vegan Version?

To make Jian Bing vegan, omit the eggs and use a plant-based milk for the batter. You can use tofu scramble or additional vegetables as fillings.

How Do I Store Leftover Jian Bing?

Leftover Jian Bing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.

Bringing the flavors of Chinese street food into your kitchen with Jian Bing is a delightful way to start your day. Enjoy the crispy, savory pancakes with your favorite fillings and sauces for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and delicious. Happy cooking!

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