18 Chinese Flaky Pastry Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 20, 2024
Chinese flaky pastry, also known as "laopengyou" or "old friend pastry," is a popular and traditional dessert in China. This flaky and crispy pastry is often filled with sweet or savory fillings and is a beloved treat during special occasions such as the Chinese New Year. While it may seem daunting to make at home, with the right recipe and techniques, you can create your own delicious Chinese flaky pastry that will impress your family and friends. In this article, we will go through a professional and well-organized introduction to this delectable treat and provide you with a step-by-step recipe to make it at home.
Sweet: Red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or black sesame paste
Savory: Minced pork, scallions, and Chinese five-spice powder
To make the perfect Chinese flaky pastry, you will need high-quality ingredients and precise measurements. All-purpose flour is commonly used for the dough, but you can also use a combination of cake flour and bread flour for a lighter and flakier texture. Water is the key to creating the layers in the pastry, while salt enhances the flavor. Vegetable oil is added to the dough to make it more pliable and easier to roll out.
When it comes to the filling, the options are endless. For a sweet filling, you can use red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or black sesame paste. These fillings can be found in most Asian grocery stores. If you prefer a savory filling, you can use a mixture of minced pork, scallions, and Chinese five-spice powder. This flavorful filling is commonly used in traditional Chinese flaky pastries.
Steps to Make Chinese Flaky Pastry
1. Prepare the Dough
To make the dough, mix all-purpose flour, water, salt, and vegetable oil in a large mixing bowl. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Dough
After resting, roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the dough with vegetable oil and sprinkle some flour on top. Fold the dough into thirds, like a letter. Turn the dough 90 degrees and repeat the rolling and folding process two more times.
3. Add the Filling
Roll out the dough one last time and cut it into equal-sized squares. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough into triangles and pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.
4. Bake and Enjoy
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the pastries on the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown. Let them cool before serving and enjoy your homemade Chinese flaky pastries!
In conclusion, making Chinese flaky pastry at home may seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and techniques, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. By using high-quality ingredients and following the steps outlined in this article, you can impress your loved ones with your own delicious and authentic Chinese flaky pastry. Give it a try and see for yourself!
