Homemade Crispy Chinese Youtiao

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (125g) whole wheat flour 1 cup (125g) whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds 1 tablespoon (15g) sesame seeds
• Oil for deep frying Oil for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and active dry yeast.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Drizzle vegetable oil over the dough and continue kneading for another 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, allowing it to rise.
6. 6.
   After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
7. 7.
   Roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 1/2 inch (1.25cm) thick.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the dough and press them gently to adhere.
9. 9.
   Cut the dough into long strips, about 1 inch (2.5cm) wide.
10. 10.
    Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (180°C).
11. 11.
    Carefully place the dough strips into the hot oil, frying them in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per batch.
12. 12.
    Remove the Youtiao from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
13. 13.
    Serve the Homemade Crispy Chinese Youtiao warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Whole wheat flour — Using whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and boosts the nutritional value of the Youtiao. However, it may result in a slightly denser texture compared to using only all-purpose flour. Adjust the water quantity accordingly to achieve the desired consistency of the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the Youtiao.
• To achieve a lighter texture, allow the dough to rise for the full hour.
• Serve Youtiao with soy milk, congee, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful flavor combination.
• Youtiao is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so try to consume them shortly after frying.
• If you prefer a sweeter version, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.

Serving advice

Serve the Homemade Crispy Chinese Youtiao as a breakfast dish alongside a warm bowl of soy milk or congee. Alternatively, enjoy them as a snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Homemade Crispy Chinese Youtiao on a serving platter, placing them diagonally to showcase their elongated shape. Sprinkle some additional sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of visual appeal. Serve them warm to enhance their aroma and texture.