Suzhou Scallion Cake

Suzhou Scallion Cake is a delightful treat hailing from the Jiangsu province of China. Known for its crispy texture and rich flavor, this cake is popular as a snack or a breakfast item. The history of Suzhou Scallion Cake dates back centuries, with its roots tied deeply to the culinary traditions of Suzhou, which is renowned for its mixture of sweet and savory flavors. This dish combines simple ingredients to create a layered pancake, where each bite promises a burst of flavor from the green onion enclosed within crispy layers of dough.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 2 cups
• Water - 3/4 cup
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
• Green onions (scallions) - 1 cup, chopped

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by making the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add water, stirring continuously, until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which should take about 10 minutes. Once done, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the gluten to relax.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Finely chop the green onions and set them aside. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped green onions with salt and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. This will enhance the flavor and release the aroma of the green onions.

Cooking Process

1. Rolling Out the Dough

   Divide the rested dough into four equal parts. Take one portion and roll it into a thin rectangle using a rolling pin. Spread a thin layer of the green onions and oil mixture evenly across the dough.

2. Shaping the Cakes

   Roll the rectangle dough sheet into a log, then coil the log into a spiral shape. Gently flatten the spiral using the rolling pin until it resembles a disc. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions.

3. Cooking the Cakes

   Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place one flattened dough disc into the pan. Fry each side until golden brown and crispy, approximately 5 minutes per side. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision. Repeat with all the cakes.

Enjoying Suzhou Scallion Cake

Suzhou Scallion Cake is best enjoyed hot, right off the pan. The perfect balance between the slight chewiness of the layers and the crispiness of the outer skin makes it a delightful snack. You can serve it with soy sauce or chili sauce for added flavor. This cake can be eaten alone as a light snack or paired with a bowl of congee or a cup of jasmine tea for a fuller meal experience. Whether you are enjoying it on a busy morning or during a relaxed afternoon, Suzhou Scallion Cake is sure to bring a piece of Chinese culinary tradition to your table.