Savory Chinese Chive Pancakes with Shrimp: A Flavorful Delight

Do you crave a dish that combines crispy edges, tender centers, and bursts of flavor with every bite? Savory Chinese chive pancakes with shrimp offer exactly that—a delectable combination of textures and tastes that’s satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you enjoy these pancakes as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Savory Chinese Chive Pancakes with Shrimp

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh Chinese chives, succulent shrimp, and crispy pancake batter creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these items in your kitchen already, making this an easy recipe to whip up.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these pancakes for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dinner paired with a simple salad or soup.
• Customizable: Add other vegetables, spices, or proteins to make the recipe your own.

Ingredients for Savory Chinese Chive Pancakes with Shrimp

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 cup (150g)
Large egg	1
Water	1 cup (240ml)
Salt	1/2 tsp (or to taste)
Chinese chives (trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch lengths)	4 oz (115g)
Carrot (finely diced)	1 medium
Red chili (optional, finely diced)	1
Cooked shrimp (chopped)	4 oz (115g)
Vegetable oil	4 tbsp (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, egg, and salt until smooth.
• Ensure the batter is lump-free for even cooking.

2. Add the Fillings

• Gently fold in the chopped Chinese chives, diced carrot, red chili (if using), and chopped shrimp.
• Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Heat the Pan

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Ensure the pan is hot enough to create a crispy pancake surface.

4. Cook the Pancakes

• Pour about 1/4 of the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly to form a thin pancake.
• Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side until golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
• Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.

5. Remove Excess Oil and Serve

• Place the cooked pancakes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
• Serve hot with a soy-based dipping sauce or your favorite condiments.

Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~180
Protein	9g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	19g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	300mg

What Makes Chinese Chive Pancakes Special?

1. Fresh Ingredients: The use of Chinese chives adds a mild onion-garlic flavor that elevates the dish.
2. Perfectly Crispy: Achieve crispy edges while maintaining a tender center by cooking the pancakes on medium heat.
3. Savory Flavor Profile: The shrimp, chives, and optional chili create a satisfying, umami-rich taste.
4. Easy to Make: With just one bowl and a frying pan, this recipe is beginner-friendly and low-effort.

Tips for Perfect Chinese Chive Pancakes

1. Consistent Heat: Cook the pancakes on medium heat for a crispy exterior without burning.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry one pancake at a time to allow even cooking.
3. Dry the Ingredients: Ensure the chives and shrimp are dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture.
4. Customize Your Pancakes: Add sesame seeds, grated ginger, or soy sauce to the batter for extra flavor.
5. Flip Carefully: Use a wide spatula to flip the pancakes gently and avoid breaking them.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauce: Pair with soy sauce, chili oil, or a simple mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables, soup, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• Snack Platter: Add these pancakes to a platter with spring rolls, dumplings, and pickled vegetables for an Asian-inspired appetizer spread.
• Breakfast Option: Enjoy with a sunny-side-up egg for a savory breakfast treat.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Stack cooked pancakes with parchment paper between each one and freeze in a resealable bag for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat

• Skillet: Warm the pancakes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes, though this may result in softer pancakes.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in the batter?

Absolutely! Finely chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions to the batter.

2. Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Yes! You can use cooked chicken, tofu, or even canned tuna for a different protein option.

3. Are Chinese chives essential to the recipe?

While Chinese chives provide a unique flavor, green onions or regular chives can be used as substitutes.

4. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

5. What oil is best for frying the pancakes?

Neutral oils like vegetable oil or canola oil work best for frying.

6. How do I make these pancakes spicier?

Increase the amount of diced chili or add chili flakes to the batter.

Conclusion

Savory Chinese chive pancakes with shrimp are a delightful dish that combines traditional Asian flavors with simple, fresh ingredients. Their crispy texture, savory taste, and versatility make them perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today, and discover the magic of homemade chive pancakes!

Print