Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Name: Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup hot water (plus more as needed); 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups finely chopped scallions (green parts only); Sesame oil for brushing; Extra flour for rolling out the dough

Jessica Baker

Update : December 11, 2025

Crispy Chinese scallion pancakes (Cong You Bing) served with dipping sauce.

why make this recipe

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes, or Cong You Bing, are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine to your kitchen. These pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack or side dish. They highlight the fresh taste of scallions and are simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can impress your family and friends with this delectable dish.

how to make Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Ingredients :

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup hot water (plus more as needed)
4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups finely chopped scallions (green parts only)
Sesame oil for brushing
Extra flour for rolling out the dough

Directions :

Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour. Slowly pour in the hot water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Once it’s cool enough to handle, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes. This rest allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out. Personal tip: I usually make the dough while my morning coffee brews—by the time I’m done sipping, it’s ready to roll!
Divide and Roll: After resting, divide the dough into four equal portions. Lightly flour your surface and roll out one piece into a thin rectangle. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—this is a rustic, homemade snack!
Add the Filling: Brush the rolled-out dough with sesame oil, sprinkle evenly with salt, and add a generous handful of chopped scallions.
Roll and Coil: Roll the rectangle up like a jelly roll (lengthwise), then coil it into a spiral shape, tucking the end underneath. Gently flatten the coil with your palm.
Roll Again: Use a rolling pin to gently roll the coil into a pancake about ¼-inch thick. Be gentle—it’s okay if some scallions peek through.
Fry to Perfection: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with the remaining dough. Tip: Press lightly with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning and extra crispiness!
Slice and Serve: Let the pancakes cool slightly, then cut into wedges. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—soy sauce with a dash of vinegar and chili oil is a go-to.

how to serve Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes are best served warm and can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Pair them with a dipping sauce like soy sauce mixed with vinegar and chili oil for a spicy kick. You can also serve them alongside soups or as part of a larger meal with stir-fried vegetables or meats.

how to store Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

To store leftover pancakes, let them cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat until crispy again, about 2-3 minutes per side.

tips to make Crispy Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Make sure your water is hot; it helps to make the dough softer and easier to handle.
Don’t rush the resting time for the dough; it’s important for the texture.
Adjust the amount of scallions based on your taste—more scallions give more flavor!
If you have leftover pancakes, they can also be frozen. Place parchment paper between each pancake before freezing for easy separation.

variation

You can experiment with your scallion pancakes by adding herbs or spices to the filling. Some people like to include sesame seeds for extra crunch or even cheese for a creamy texture. You can also try swapping scallions for other greens like garlic chives or spinach.

FAQs

Can I use cold water instead of hot water for the dough?
- Hot water is recommended as it helps achieve the right texture, making the pancakes softer.
Can I make the dough in advance?
- Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before use.
What is the best way to serve these pancakes?
- These pancakes are best served warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, like soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil for added flavor.