Hunan-Style Stuffed Pancakes

Ingredients

While the original Serbian Mazanica is typically made with a simple filling of cheese and ham, the Hunan-style stuffed pancakes take a bolder approach. The filling in this adaptation incorporates ground meat, such as pork or beef, along with a variety of vegetables and aromatic herbs. Additionally, the pancakes themselves are infused with a touch of spice, characteristic of Hunan cuisine, to add an extra kick to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Mazanica, so you can check it out.

• For the pancakes: For the pancakes:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground pork or beef 1 pound (450g) ground pork or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili paste 1 teaspoon chili paste
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For frying: For frying:
• Vegetable oil Vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and chili powder for the pancakes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, cook the ground pork or beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. 4.
   Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, chili paste, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
6. 6.
   Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter onto the skillet and spread it into a thin, round shape. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
7. 7.
   To assemble the stuffed pancakes, place a spoonful of the filling onto one half of each pancake. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing gently to seal the edges.
8. 8.
   Return the stuffed pancakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, until heated through and crispy.
9. 9.
   Serve the Hunan-style stuffed pancakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground pork or beef — Make sure to choose lean meat for a healthier option. If desired, you can also substitute with ground chicken or turkey.
• Chili paste — Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your spice preference. Add more for an extra kick or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Experiment with different fillings such as mushrooms, shredded cabbage, or bamboo shoots to add variety to the dish.
• Serve the stuffed pancakes with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
• Leftover stuffed pancakes can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or oven for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Hunan-style stuffed pancakes as a main course accompanied by a side of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed pancakes on a platter, showcasing their golden-brown exterior. Drizzle a small amount of soy sauce or hoisin sauce over the pancakes for an attractive presentation. Serve with a side of dipping sauce and garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs.