Name: Chinese Zucchini Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 large zucchini, grated; 3 shallots or scallions, sliced; 2 eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); 2 teaspoons Chinese black vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 small clove garlic, finely chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon chili paste or sauce (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

Chinese Zucchini Pancakes are a delightful blend of warmth and flavor that brings comfort to any table. This recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating these simple yet satisfying pancakes that are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and the aromatic flavors will whisk you away to the bustling streets of China. There’s something magical about the harmonious blend of spices and fresh zucchini that makes these pancakes a perfect addition to your meal plan. Let’s dive into why this dish is worth making!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese Zucchini Pancakes are not only delicious; they are also a breeze to whip up. Ideal for busy weeknights, the prep takes mere minutes and the cooking process is quick, giving you a lovely dish in no time. They are family-friendly too, as they cater to both adults and kids alike. Made with minimal ingredients, these pancakes don’t compromise on taste. Additionally, you can make them vegan by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal if you need a variation. This recipe fits everyone’s needs!

Ingredients for Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

To create these delectable pancakes, you will need the following ingredients:

1 large zucchini, grated
3 shallots or scallions, sliced
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the dipping sauce:

2 teaspoons Chinese black vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 small clove garlic, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt (for dipping sauce)
1/4 teaspoon chili paste or sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions for Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

Prep the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchini into a bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 15 minutes to allow moisture to escape. Once the time is up, mix the released liquid back with the grated zucchini to maintain flavor.
Mix in the Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the sliced scallions, eggs, all-purpose flour, remaining salt, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until just combined to keep the fluffiness intact.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Chinese black vinegar, sesame oil, chopped garlic, a pinch of salt, and chili paste (if you’re feeling adventurous). This dip will elevate your pancakes!
Fry the Pancakes: Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot enough but not smoking.
Cook the Pancakes: Scoop about 1/2 cup of the batter into the hot pan and gently spread it into a circle. Cook for about 1.5 minutes on each side until the pancakes turn a beautiful golden brown.
Repeat: Continue the process until all the batter is cooked. Keep the pancakes warm in a low oven if necessary.
Serve: Serve the pancakes hot with the prepared dipping sauce. For added flair, garnish with extra scallions before presenting them to your guests.

Tips & Tricks for Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

Grate the Zucchini Right: Use a box grater for even shreds; a food processor can also work if you desire quicker prep but may not yield the best texture.
Check Oil Temperature: Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small bit of batter; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Customize Your Flavor: Add in additional herbs or spices to the batter for your unique twist; cilantro or basil can give an extra aromatic kick!
Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too wet, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour until you reach the desired thickness.
Crispy Pancakes: For extra crispiness, increase the heat slightly after flipping the pancakes to get a beautifully crunchy exterior.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Chinese Zucchini Pancakes can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Consider pairing them with a side of steamed broccoli or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve them alongside stir-fried tofu or chicken for a more hearty meal. For an even more authentic experience, serve your pancakes with soy sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping. Enjoy exploring different flavors that complement the aromatic spiciness of the pancakes!

Nutritional Information

These delightful pancakes are not just tasty but also relatively healthy. Each serving offers a good dose of fiber and nutrients from the zucchini and can be prepared with less oil to cut down on calories. Although specific calorie counts depend on portion size, you can estimate roughly 150 calories per pancake, including the dipping sauce. Enjoy them as an indulgent treat or a health-conscious snack; the choice is yours!

Storing Tips & Variations for Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

Leftover Chinese Zucchini Pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can easily be reheated in a heated pan or toaster for a quick bite. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked batter; just remember to thaw and mix before frying. For a lighter version, substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative. Creative variations could include the addition of other vegetables such as grated carrots or sweet potatoes to give a new taste twist!

Conclusion for Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

Chinese Zucchini Pancakes are more than just food; they are bursts of flavor and texture that make your meal memorable. The ease of preparation makes them a perfect choice for any cook, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro in the kitchen. Don’t delay; gather your ingredients today and add this delectable recipe to your rotation. Dive into a world of flavors with these delicious pancakes that will leave you wanting more!

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Yes! You can easily substitute the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water for a vegan option.
How do I know if the pancakes are cooked perfectly?
Look for a lovely golden-brown color on each side; they should feel firm to the touch.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even bell peppers can be delightful additions or substitutes.
What can I use if I don’t have Chinese black vinegar?
You can use rice vinegar or a mixture of balsamic and water in a pinch, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How long can I keep the leftover pancake batter?
It’s best to cook the batter immediately for the best texture, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if needed.

Chinese Zucchini Pancakes

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Chinese Zucchini Pancakes that are golden brown outside and tender inside, perfect for a family meal or snack.

Instructions

Grate the zucchini into a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Mix the released liquid back with the zucchini.
Add the sliced scallions, eggs, all-purpose flour, remaining salt, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil to the zucchini. Stir until just combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Chinese black vinegar, sesame oil, chopped garlic, a pinch of salt, and chili paste.
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Ensure oil is hot (but not smoking).
Scoop about 1/2 cup of batter into the pan and flatten into a circle. Cook for about 1.5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Continue until all batter is cooked, keeping pancakes warm in a low oven if needed.
Serve hot with dipping sauce and garnish with extra scallions if desired.