If you're looking for a delicious and easy way to satisfy your savoury cravings, these crispy vegan spring onion pancakes are the answer. Perfect for cooking in an air fryer, this recipe is a simple, healthier twist on a classic Asian dish, delivering all the crispy goodness without the deep-fried guilt. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, these pancakes are sure to become a favourite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1 cup finely chopped spring onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: pinch of white pepper for seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by placing the flour in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add the boiling water, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or chopsticks until a rough dough begins to form. Knead the dough in the bowl for about one minute, just enough to bring it together. At this point, the dough will be a bit shaggy and rough.
Step 2: Rest the Dough
Transfer the dough to a work surface and continue kneading for an additional 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
Once rested, divide the dough into four equal parts. Taking one piece at a time, roll it out into a thin circle, approximately 8-10 inches in diameter. Brush a light layer of sesame oil over the surface, then sprinkle with a generous amount of chopped spring onions and a pinch of salt (and white pepper, if using).
Step 4: Shape the Pancakes
Roll the circle of dough into a cylinder, keeping the filling inside. Coil the cylinder into a spiral shape, like a snail shell, then press down gently with your palm to flatten slightly. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into a pancake, about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough.
Step 5: Air Fry the Pancakes
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Lightly brush both sides of the pancake with additional sesame oil, ensuring they're well coated to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Place the pancakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking them in batches if necessary. Air fry each pancake for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a cutting board and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice into wedges and serve with your favourite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chilli sauce. Enjoy these pancakes as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or snack!
Tips and Variations
- For extra flavour, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the filling.
- Feel free to experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat, for a healthier alternative.
- If you don't have an air fryer, these pancakes can also be pan-fried on a skillet over medium heat.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle some chilli flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
Nutritional Information
These spring onion pancakes are not just delicious; they are also relatively low in calories compared to their fried counterparts. Each pancake contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 3g
- Fibre: 1g
With their simple ingredients and delightful taste, these spring onion pancakes make for a versatile vegan dish that fits perfectly into any meal. Try them today and let their crispiness surprise you!