16 Easy Chinese Cruller Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Chinese crullers, also known as youtiao or Chinese fried dough, are a popular breakfast food in China and other parts of Asia. These deep-fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and airy on the inside, making them the perfect accompaniment to a warm bowl of congee or a cup of hot soy milk. While they may seem intimidating to make at home, this easy Chinese cruller recipe will have you creating these delicious treats in no time.
Main Ingredients: Water, Bread Flour, Instant Yeast, Sugar, Baking
If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you've probably heard of 油条 or Chinese crullers. These long, golden-brown fried dough sticks are a staple in many Chinese breakfasts, and for a good reason. They are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and pair perfectly with a bowl of steaming hot soy milk.
Making 油条 at home may seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step recipe, you'll be able to recreate this delicious dish in no time. Plus, you'll impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
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Youtiao (Chinese Oil Stick)-Chinese Cruller
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Small
Another name for 油条 is Youtiao, which translates to "oil sticks" in English. This name comes from the fact that the dough is fried in hot oil until it becomes crispy and golden-brown. Youtiao is often served as a side dish or as a snack, and it is a popular street food in China.
To make Youtiao, you'll need a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to use bread flour, which has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour. This will give your Youtiao a chewier and more elastic texture.
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You Tiao (Chinese Cruller 油条) (No Alum Version)
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Plain Flour, Water, Baking Soda, Baking
If you've done some research on 油条, you may have come across recipes that call for alum powder. Alum is a chemical compound that is used as a food additive to improve the texture of fried foods. However, some people prefer to avoid using alum, especially in homemade dishes.
This version of 油条 uses baking soda as a substitute for alum. Baking soda will help to achieve a similar texture without the use of chemicals. It's a great option for those who want to make 油条 at home without the addition of any artificial ingredients.
Next on our list is a classic Chinese dish that has become a favorite in many western countries – orange chicken. This dish is made with crispy fried chicken pieces that are coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.
The secret to making orange chicken that tastes like it came from a restaurant is to double fry the chicken. This means frying the chicken pieces twice to achieve the perfect crispiness. It may sound like a lot of work, but trust us, it's worth it.
No Chinese takeout meal is complete without a beef and broccoli dish. This stir-fry dish is made with tender strips of beef, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce that is bursting with flavor. It's a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
The key to making beef and broccoli that tastes like it came from a Chinese restaurant is to marinate the beef before cooking it. This will infuse the meat with flavor and make it more tender. You can also add some oyster sauce to the stir-fry sauce for an extra layer of umami.
Fried rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is a great way to use up any leftover rice you have in your fridge. This dish is made by stir-frying rice with vegetables, protein, and a variety of sauces and seasonings. It's a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking.
To make Chinese fried rice that is flavorful and not soggy, it's essential to use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together and can make the fried rice mushy. By using cold rice, you'll achieve the perfect texture and avoid any clumps.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
If you're tired of the same old chicken recipes, give this Chinese chicken thigh recipe a try. This dish features tender and juicy chicken thighs that are marinated in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. The result is a dish that is packed with flavor and has a beautiful caramelized glaze.
You can serve these Chinese chicken thighs as a main dish with some vegetables and rice or use them as a protein in a stir-fry. Either way, you won't be disappointed with the delicious flavors of this dish.
For a lighter take on the classic beef and broccoli dish, try this recipe for chicken and broccoli. This dish features tender chicken pieces and crisp broccoli florets that are stir-fried in a savory sauce. It's a healthier alternative that still packs a punch of flavor.
To add some extra crunch to this dish, you can top it with some toasted cashews or almonds. This will not only add a different texture but also some healthy fats and protein to the dish.
When you're feeling under the weather or just need a comforting meal, egg drop soup is the perfect choice. This Chinese soup is made with a savory broth that is thickened with cornstarch and eggs. It's a light yet flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion.
For added flavor, you can add some shredded chicken or shrimp to the soup. You can also top it with some green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra depth of flavor.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Another classic Chinese takeout dish that is loved by many is pork fried rice. This dish is made with diced pork, vegetables, and rice stir-fried in a savory sauce. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that pairs well with any other Chinese dish.
You can use any type of pork for this recipe, such as pork loin or pork belly. For added flavor, you can marinate the pork in some soy sauce and rice wine before cooking it.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
If you're not a fan of pork, or just want a vegetarian option, try this recipe for egg fried rice. This dish is made with scrambled eggs, vegetables, and rice, and it's a great option for a quick and easy meal.
To add some extra protein to this dish, you can also add some tofu or edamame. This will make it a more filling and nutritious meal option.
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Fried Chicken Wings, Chinese Takeout Style
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Garlic
Who doesn't love a plate of crispy fried chicken wings? This recipe will show you how to make Chinese-style fried chicken wings that are full of flavor and perfectly crispy. They are great as an appetizer or as a main dish served with rice and vegetables.
The key to making crispy chicken wings is to make sure they are completely dry before frying them. You can pat them dry with some paper towels or leave them uncovered in the fridge for a few hours.
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Chinese Broccoli Beef
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Soy Sauce, Cornstarch, Freshly Ground
If you're a fan of beef and broccoli, try this version that uses Chinese broccoli instead of regular broccoli. Chinese broccoli, also known as kailan, has a slightly bitter and more robust flavor than regular broccoli, which pairs perfectly with the savory beef and sauce in this dish.
You can find Chinese broccoli at most Asian grocery stores or substitute it with regular broccoli if you can't find it. You can also use any other type of protein, such as chicken or tofu, in place of the beef.
If you've ever been to a Chinese restaurant, you've probably seen egg rolls on the menu. These crispy, savory rolls are filled with a mixture of vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles, and are a popular appetizer or side dish in Chinese cuisine.
Making egg rolls at home is easier than you may think. All you need is some egg roll wrappers, which you can find at most grocery stores, and your choice of filling. You can also make them vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables.
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Classic Beef Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout
Main Ingredients: Flank Steak, Salt, Water, Baking Soda, Dark Soy Sauce
For another take on the classic pork fried rice, try this recipe for beef fried rice. This dish is very similar to the pork version, but with the addition of tender and juicy strips of beef that will take this dish to the next level.
To make the beef extra tender, you can marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch before stir-frying it. This will not only add flavor but also help to keep the beef from becoming tough.
If you're a fan of char siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, try making it at home with this easy recipe. This dish features tender and juicy slices of pork that are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then roasted until they are caramelized and slightly charred.
You can serve Chinese BBQ pork as a main dish with rice and vegetables, or use it as a protein in stir-fries and other dishes. It's also a great addition to sandwiches and wraps.
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor, this Chinese chicken stir fry is the perfect option. This dish is made with bite-sized pieces of chicken, a variety of vegetables, and a savory sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.
You can use any vegetables you have on hand for this dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. You can also add some cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
Sweet and sour chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. This recipe will show you how to make a healthier version of this dish at home, without sacrificing any of the flavors. The chicken is crispy and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or vegetarian chicken and use pineapple or mandarin oranges in place of the chicken.
For a sweet and sticky seafood dish, try this recipe for Chinese honey prawns. The prawns are coated in a honey glaze and served with a side of steamed rice and vegetables. It's a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself.
You can use shrimp or lobster in place of prawns if you prefer. You can also add some chili flakes or chili paste to the glaze for a spicy kick.
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Homemade Chinese Fried Noodles
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Chinese Chives, Medium Carrot, Shredded
For a noodle dish that is sure to impress, try this recipe for Chinese fried noodles. This dish is made with egg noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance. It's a perfect dish for a dinner party or a special occasion.
To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as bok choy or bean sprouts. You can also use any type of protein, such as beef or tofu, in place of the chicken.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup hot water
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough
To make the dough, start by combining the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add in the hot water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Shape the Dough
After the dough has rested, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface with vegetable oil and fold the dough in half. Roll it out again to 1/4 inch thickness and fold in half once more. Repeat this process two more times, then cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
3. Cut and Fry the Dough
After the dough has rested for the second time, roll it out into a 1/4 inch thick rectangle. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 10 inches long. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F. Gently stretch the dough strips and drop them into the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Chinese crullers warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. These delicious treats are best eaten fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
With this easy Chinese cruller recipe, you can enjoy these tasty breakfast treats in the comfort of your own home. Impress your family and friends with your homemade youtiao and bring a taste of Asia to your breakfast table. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients and simple instructions, this recipe is perfect for even beginner cooks. Give it a try and indulge in the crispy, airy goodness of Chinese crullers.
