Chinese pancakes, also known as bing, are a delicious and versatile staple in Chinese cuisine. These thin, round pancakes can be served with various fillings or simply enjoyed on their own. In this article, we will discuss three different ways to make Chinese pancakes: the traditional method, a vegan option, and a gluten-free variation.

1. Traditional Chinese Pancakes

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup boiling water

– 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil

– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the flour in a large bowl and gradually add boiling water while mixing with chopsticks or a fork. Keep adding water until a smooth dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.

4. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).

5. Roll each ball into a thin disc using a rolling pin.

6. Brush one side of each pancake with sesame oil and sprinkle some salt.

7. Fold the pancakes into half-moons and then roll them out again to form thin layers.

8. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook each pancake for about 2 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked through.

2. Vegan Chinese Pancakes

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup boiling water

– 1/4 cup vegetable oil

– Salt to taste

Instructions:

Follow the same instructions as above, substituting vegetable oil for sesame oil.

3. Gluten-Free Chinese Pancakes

Ingredients:

– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (such as Bob’s Red Mill)

– 3/4 cup boiling water

– 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil

– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the gluten-free flour in a large bowl and gradually add boiling water, stirring with a fork or chopsticks; the dough will be stickier than in traditional recipes.

2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add more flour if it is too sticky.

3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.

4. Proceed with steps 4 to 8 from the traditional Chinese pancake recipe.

Now you have three ways to make delicious Chinese pancakes or bing at home. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite fillings like thinly sliced vegetables, cooked meat, or a flavorful dipping sauce.