Imagine the irresistible aroma of crispy, golden-brown pancakes wafting through your kitchen, bringing everyone together to savor a bite of something special. I stumbled upon these Edmonton-style donut-shaped green onion pancakes while experimenting with new appetizers for a gathering, and they quickly became a favorite. Their unique shape and flaky layers offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the delicate flavor of green onions.
These pancakes are not just a dish; they’re an invitation to gather around the table, making them perfect for both casual weeknight snacks and elegant gatherings alike. You only need a handful of straightforward pantry ingredients, making this recipe refreshingly simple yet impressively delicious. Whether dipped in chili oil or served alongside sweet chili sauce, these pancakes will delight your taste buds and elevate your homemade meal experience. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why are Green Onion Pancakes a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: These Edmonton-style green onion pancakes are filled with the savory essence of fresh green onions, creating a taste that is both unique and comforting.
Quick and easy: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up these delightful pancakes in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fun shape: Their donut-like form not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the crunchiness, elevating them as a standout dish at any table.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack; they can adapt to any meal, making them a kitchen staple for everyone.
Dipping delight: Pair them with chili garlic sauce or sweet chili sauce for a burst of flavor that takes these pancakes to another level.
Green Onion Pancake Ingredients
• Simple yet essential components for flavor-packed pancakes.
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – This flour provides the backbone of your pancakes; try gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.
- Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; consider adding flaked sea salt on top for an extra zing.
- Baking Powder – Essential for creating a tender texture in each bite.
- Hot Boiling Water – Activates the dough by making it pliable and easy to work with.
- Room-Temperature Water – Use as needed to adjust the dough’s consistency for smoothness.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a delightful nutty flavor that deepens the taste of your green onion pancakes.
For the Filling
- Green Onions (Chopped) – The star ingredient brings a fresh aroma and flavor; feel free to adjust the amount depending on your preference.
For Frying
- Avocado Oil (or any high-smoke point oil) – This oil is perfect for pan-frying, ensuring your pancakes achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
These green onion pancakes are sure to become a hit at your next meal, combining texture and flavor in an enjoyable way!
How to Make Green Onion Pancakes
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sea salt, baking powder, and hot boiling water. Stir until everything is combined and a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead Dough: Gradually incorporate room-temperature water as needed, kneading for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and pliable. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
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Prepare Portions: Divide the rested dough into 3 to 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle. Brush the surface with toasted sesame oil, then sprinkle the chopped green onions evenly over it.
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Shape Pancakes: Fold the dough lengthwise to enclose the filling, then roll it out again into a long cylinder. Fold in half, sealing the ends to create a donut shape.
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Fry Pancakes: Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Pan-fry each donut-shaped pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Serve & Enjoy: Sprinkle with flaked sea salt, cut into quarters, and serve immediately with chili garlic sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Green Onion Pancakes
- Dough Consistency: Make sure the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky; this balance is crucial for achieving the perfect texture of your pancakes.
- Oil Temperature: Always let the oil heat thoroughly before frying. If it’s not hot enough, the pancakes may absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Freezing Tips: When freezing uncooked pancakes, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can fry directly from frozen—no need to thaw!
- Avoid Over-Kneading: Knead just until the dough becomes smooth. Over-kneading can create tough pancakes instead of the desired flaky texture.
- Experiment Freely: Feel free to play with flavors by adding garlic or chili flakes to the filling; this will elevate the taste of your green onion pancakes!
What to Serve with Edmonton-Style Donut-Shaped Chinese Green Onion Pancakes?
Imagine a delightful spread that brings warmth and inviting aromas to your table, complementing the crispy goodness of these pancakes.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A luscious dipping sauce that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, enhancing the pancake’s flavors.
- Spicy Garlic Sauce: This vibrant sauce delivers a punchy kick, invigorating your taste buds and pairing beautifully with the green onion essence.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers a crisp contrast to the warm, flaky pancakes, brightening each bite with its lightness.
- Sesame Green Beans: These tender, savory beans provide a delightful crunch and nuttiness that harmonizes with the green onions in the pancakes.
- Egg Drop Soup: The warmth and gentle flavors of this comforting soup make for a cozy pairing, perfect for sharing on a chilly night.
- Fried Tofu: Crispy, golden bites of tofu sprinkled with soy sauce make a protein-rich addition that complements the pancakes’ texture and flavor effortlessly.
Each of these pairings not only enhances the experience of enjoying green onion pancakes but also invites delightful conversations around your dinner table.
Storage Tips for Green Onion Pancakes
Room Temperature: Store cooked pancakes at room temperature for up to 2 hours; cover them with a clean cloth to keep them warm and prevent drying out.
Fridge: Cooked green onion pancakes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid moisture build-up.
Freezer: To freeze uncooked green onion pancakes, layer them with parchment paper and store in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen without thawing for best results.
Reheating: For refreshing leftover pancakes, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy again.
Make Ahead Options
These Edmonton-style donut-shaped green onion pancakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and allowing it to rest in the refrigerator, covered tightly to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can roll out and shape the pancakes, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pan-fry them straight from the fridge or, for ultimate convenience, freeze the uncooked pancakes layered with parchment paper. Cooking from frozen requires no thawing, ensuring they stay just as crispy and delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the ease of having these tasty treats on hand for busy weeknights!
Green Onion Pancakes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity run wild and customize these pancakes to your taste with these delightful variations!
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Garlic-Infused: Add minced garlic to the dough for a fragrant twist that elevates each bite with aromatic goodness.
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Herb Delight: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for extra freshness and flavor contrast; it’s a delightful surprise!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper with the green onions for a delicious heat that lingers on the palate. Perfect for spice lovers!
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Cheese Lover’s: Scatter some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the filling for a gourmet touch. The melty cheese creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
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Savory Additions: Experiment with finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots in the filling for added texture and sweetness. They blend beautifully with the green onions.
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Sweet Alternative: For a sweeter twist, try adding a handful of shredded coconut and a dash of sugar to the dough. Serve with a sweet chili sauce for dipping!
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Vegan Upgrade: Substitute the sesame oil with a plant-based oil and use a vegan butter alternative for pan-frying. These small changes keep it entirely plant-based.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust the water as needed for the right dough consistency. Everyone deserves delicious pancakes!
Edmonton-Style Donut-Shaped Chinese Green Onion Pancakes Recipe FAQs
What type of green onions should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh green onions are the best choice for this recipe, as they provide a vibrant flavor and aroma. Look for ones with firm, green tops, and avoid any that have wilted or dark spots. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for a more or less pronounced onion flavor.
How long can I store cooked green onion pancakes?
You can refrigerate cooked pancakes for up to 3 days. Just be sure to place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. I often recommend placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to maintain their texture.
Can I freeze uncooked green onion pancakes?
Yes! To freeze uncooked pancakes, stack them with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking and store in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fry them directly from frozen—no need to thaw! This keeps the layers intact and delicious.
What should I do if my pancake dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky after kneading, it may need a bit more flour. Gradually sprinkle in a small amount of all-purpose flour while kneading until it reaches the desired smooth consistency. Just be cautious not to over-knead, as you want to maintain that flaky texture!
Are these pancakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour. Depending on the blend, you might need to add a little extra flour to achieve the right dough consistency. Just be sure to enjoy them fresh for the best texture!
How do I reheat leftover pancakes?
To reheat, simply place your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy again. This method restores their delightful crunch, making every bite irresistible!
Delicious Donut-Style Green Onion Pancakes from Edmonton
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sea salt, baking powder, and hot boiling water. Stir until combined and a shaggy dough forms.
- Gradually incorporate room-temperature water as needed, kneading for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and pliable. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Divide the rested dough into 3 to 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle. Brush the surface with toasted sesame oil, then sprinkle the chopped green onions evenly over it.
- Fold the dough lengthwise to enclose the filling, then roll it out again into a long cylinder. Fold in half, sealing the ends to create a donut shape.
- Heat avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Pan-fry each donut-shaped pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle with flaked sea salt, cut into quarters, and serve immediately with chili garlic sauce or chili oil for dipping.