Shanghai-style Stuffed Pancakes

Ingredients

In this Shanghai-style adaptation, the traditional Italian torta al testo is transformed into stuffed pancakes. The original Italian version is typically served with cured meats, cheese, and vegetables, while the Shanghai-style version incorporates minced pork, shrimp, and a variety of vegetables. The seasonings and sauces used in the filling are also influenced by Shanghai's cuisine, adding a unique flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Torta al testo, so you can check it out.

• 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 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 200g minced pork 200g minced pork
• 100g shrimp, peeled and deveined 100g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup (150g) cabbage, finely shredded 1 cup (150g) cabbage, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup (75g) carrots, grated 1/2 cup (75g) carrots, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk until well combined.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Set aside.
4. 4.
   In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced pork and cook until browned.
5. 5.
   Add the shrimp, cabbage, carrots, green onions, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the shrimp is cooked through.
6. 6.
   Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the skillet and spread it into a thin, round pancake.
8. 8.
   Spoon a portion of the filling onto one half of the pancake. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing gently to seal the edges.
9. 9.
   Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Repeat with the remaining batter and filling.
11. 11.
    Serve the Shanghai-style stuffed pancakes hot, with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein and remove the shells before using. You can also substitute shrimp with diced chicken or tofu for a different variation.
• Cabbage — Finely shred the cabbage to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.
• Soy sauce — Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty taste.
• Oyster sauce — If you have a shellfish allergy, you can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative.
• Pancake batter — For a lighter version, you can use a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch, or substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the pancakes extra crispy, brush a little oil on the outside before frying.
• Customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Serve the pancakes with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a dash of chili oil or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
• Leftover pancakes can be refrigerated and reheated in a toaster or oven for a quick and tasty snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Shanghai-style stuffed pancakes hot, either as a main dish or as part of a larger meal. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of steamed rice or noodles.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed pancakes on a platter, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an attractive presentation. Serve with a small bowl of soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.