Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes)

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
• Hot water (3/4 cup)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (1/4 cup (for frying))
• Sesame oil (2 tablespoons)
• Scallions (4-5, finely chopped)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup (for dipping sauce))
• Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons (for dipping sauce))
• Chili oil (1 teaspoon (optional, for dipping sauce))

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the hot water, mixing with a fork until a rough dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Take one piece and roll it out into a thin circle on a floured surface.
4. Brush the rolled-out dough with 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil, then sprinkle with 1/4 of the chopped scallions and a pinch of salt.
5. Roll the dough circle up tightly into a log, then coil it into a spiral shape (like a snail). Gently roll the coil out again into a circle.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining dough pieces and scallions.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry each pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Cut into wedges and serve hot.
9. For the dipping sauce, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil in a small bowl. Serve alongside the pancakes.