Description
Savory Chinese chive pancakes with shrimp are a crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines the umami taste of shrimp with the fresh aroma of Chinese chives. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, these pancakes are quick to prepare and versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (150g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup water (240ml)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 4 oz Chinese chives (trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch lengths (115g))
- 1 medium carrot (finely diced)
- 1 red chili (finely diced (optional))
- 4 oz cooked shrimp (chopped)
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, egg, and salt until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Add the Fillings: Fold in the chopped Chinese chives, diced carrot, red chili (if using), and chopped shrimp. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 of the batter into the pan, spreading it out evenly to form a thin pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden and crispy, then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed for each pancake.
- Remove Excess Oil and Serve: Place the cooked pancakes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Serve while hot, with a soy-based dipping sauce if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter.
- If Chinese chives aren’t available, green onions or regular chives can work as substitutes.
- Make the pancakes gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-inspired