There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a warm, crispy, and flavorful breakfast. If you love savory breakfasts, these Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes will quickly become your new favorite.
Imagine biting into a crispy golden pancake, filled with savory tofu, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. The combination of textures and flavors creates a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. These pancakes are inspired by traditional Chinese street food, known for its bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Even if you’re new to making stuffed pancakes, this recipe is easy to follow and requires only simple ingredients. Let’s dive into this delicious homemade Chinese pancake recipe and learn how to make it step by step!
Why You’ll Love These Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes
- Crispy and Flavorful: A golden, crispy crust with a soft, savory filling.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
- Vegan and Customizable: Easily adaptable to different diets.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Category | Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| For the Dough | All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Salt | ¾ tsp | |
| Warm water | ¾ cup + 1 tbsp | |
| Neutral oil | 1 tsp | |
| For the Filling | Tofu Mixture | |
| Extra firm tofu | 1 lb | |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp | |
| Black salt (or regular salt) | ¾ tsp | |
| Veggie Mix | ||
| Finely shredded carrots | 1 cup | |
| Chopped scallions | 1 cup | |
| Diced red bell peppers | ½ cup | |
| Salt | ½ tsp | |
| Five-spice powder (optional but recommended) | ¼ tsp | |
| Roasted sesame seeds | 1 tsp | |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 tbsp | |
| For Cooking | Sesame oil or neutral oil | As needed |
| Neutral oil for cooking 2 pancakes | 1 tbsp | |
| Water (for steaming) | 1 tbsp per pancake |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Slowly add the warm water, stirring until a dough starts to form.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add 1 teaspoon of neutral oil and knead until fully absorbed.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Tofu Filling
- Drain the extra firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture.
- Crumble the tofu into a bowl and mix with turmeric powder and black salt.
- Stir until the tofu is evenly coated.
3. Prepare the Veggie Mix
- In a separate bowl, combine shredded carrots, scallions, and diced red bell peppers.
- Add salt, five-spice powder, and roasted sesame seeds.
- Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and mix well.
4. Assemble the Pancakes
- Divide the rested dough into four equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a thin circle (about 6-7 inches in diameter).
- Spread an even layer of the tofu mixture on one half of the dough.
- Add a portion of the veggie mix on top of the tofu.
- Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
5. Cook the Pancakes
- Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place the pancake in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Add 1 tablespoon of water to the skillet, cover with a lid, and steam for 1-2 minutes to soften the inside.
- Repeat for the remaining pancakes.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the pancakes hot from the skillet.
- Pair with soy sauce, chili oil, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
What Makes These Pancakes So Special?
1. A Perfectly Balanced Meal
These pancakes provide protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a balanced and nutritious breakfast option.
2. Rich in Flavor and Texture
The crispy exterior, soft tofu filling, and crunchy vegetables create an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
3. Inspired by Traditional Chinese Cooking
These pancakes draw inspiration from Chinese scallion pancakes and stuffed flatbreads, offering a unique twist on a classic dish.
4. Versatile and Customizable
- Swap tofu for scrambled eggs if you prefer.
- Add mushrooms or bok choy for extra veggies.
- Use spicy chili oil for a kick of heat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Best Dipping Sauces for These Pancakes
1. Classic Soy Sauce Dip
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp honey or maple syrup
2. Spicy Chili Oil Sauce
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp grated garlic
- ½ tsp sesame seeds
3. Garlic Ginger Sauce
- 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp lemon juice
FAQ Section
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling.
2. Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or napa cabbage for extra variety.
3. How do I store leftover pancakes?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
4. Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes! Place cooked pancakes in a single layer in a freezer bag. Reheat directly in a skillet or oven.
5. Are these pancakes vegan?
Yes! This recipe is 100% plant-based, making it perfect for a vegan diet.
6. What’s the best way to serve these pancakes?
Serve them hot with a dipping sauce, alongside a cup of green tea or soy milk for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
These Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes offer a delicious, crispy, and flavorful start to your day. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they are a perfect choice for a nutritious homemade breakfast.