Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. These pancakes are filled with a vibrant mix of vegetables and tofu, seasoned with aromatic spices, making them a perfect combination of flavor and texture. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create these delightful breakfast pancakes step-by-step.
Ingredients
- Fruits and Vegetables:
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup chopped scallions
- 1/2 cup red bell peppers, finely chopped
- Protein:
- 1 pound of extra-firm tofu, crumbled
- Spices and Seasonings:
- 1/4 teaspoon of 5 spice powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt
- 3/4 teaspoon of black salt (kala namak)
- Other Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Water (as needed to make the batter)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu and Vegetables
- Prepare Tofu: Drain and press the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, crumble the tofu into small pieces.
- Chop Vegetables: Grate the carrots, chop the scallions, and finely chop the red bell peppers.
Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt, and 3/4 teaspoon of black salt. Mix well.
- Add Water: Gradually add water to the flour mixture, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
- Add Spices: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of 5 spice powder into the batter.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, grated carrots, chopped scallions, and red bell peppers. Mix well to ensure the vegetables and tofu are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with a small amount of oil.
- Add Batter: Pour a ladleful of pancake batter onto the skillet, spreading it out into a round shape.
- Add Filling: Immediately sprinkle a portion of the tofu and vegetable mixture over the top of the pancake batter. Gently press the filling into the batter with the back of a spoon.
- Cook: Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to set and bubbles form on the surface. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining batter and filling, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
Serving
- Serve: Serve the Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes hot, straight from the skillet. These pancakes are delicious on their own but can also be served with a dipping sauce like soy sauce, chili oil, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Cooking Notes
- Tofu: Pressing the tofu is crucial to remove excess moisture, ensuring the filling is not too wet.
- Batter: Adjust the consistency of the batter by adding more water or flour as needed. The batter should be thick enough to hold the filling but still spread easily on the skillet.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these pancakes ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the batter and filling ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook the pancakes fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these pancakes? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of these savory pancakes, follow these modifications:
- Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables used are low in carbs, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
Chinese-Style Savory Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Packed with vegetables and tofu, these pancakes are both flavorful and satisfying. Try this recipe today and enjoy a unique and tasty breakfast that’s sure to become a favorite!
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