Chinese Flower Roll

Chinese Flower Roll Recipe - Authentic and Delicious

Region / culture: China, USA | Preparation time: 3 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Chinese Flower Roll is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. These rolls are made by rolling out dough, filling it with sesame oil, salt, and green onions, and then shaping it into a beautiful flower-like design. They are then steamed to perfection, resulting in a fluffy and flavorful roll that is perfect for any meal.

History

The Chinese Flower Roll has been a popular dish in China for many years. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, and is loved for its unique shape and delicious flavor. The intricate design of the roll is said to represent the beauty of nature, making it a favorite dish for special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 tsp of active dry yeast
1.5 cups of lukewarm water
1 tbsp of granulated sugar
3.5 cups of all-purpose flour
2 tsp of baking powder
2 tsp of water
4 tbsp of sesame oil, or as needed
1 tsp of salt
scallions (spring or green onions), finely chopped, as desired

How to prepare

Place the yeast in a bowl and pour the warm water over it. Stir in the sugar to dissolve. Let it stand for 15 minutes.
Sift the flour into a bowl. Add the yeast and water mixture and start stirring immediately. Keep stirring until you have a dough that holds together and doesn't stick to the sides of the bowl. Adjust the amount of water, adding more or less as needed.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until it is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes). Add more flour or water if needed.
Cover and let the dough rest for 1.5 hours. Punch the dough down again and let it rest for 1 - 1.5 more hours, until its size has doubled.
Dissolve the baking powder in 2 tsp water. Knead it into the dough vigorously for a few minutes, until it is elastic again. Begin preparing the flower rolls.
To make the rolls, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Rub the sesame oil over it. Sprinkle evenly with the salt and chopped green onions.
Roll up the dough as if you were rolling up a sleeping bag. Cut it into 2-inch pieces. Take each piece and, with the cut sides facing outward, use chopsticks or something similar to press down lengthwise in the middle.
Press down firmly enough so that the layers on each side spread outward, but not enough to cut right through the dough. The layers will push out to the sides, so that you have 2 ovals that are joined in the middle.
Pick up the dough by its rounded ends and pull until they meet underneath the roll. Pinch the ends together underneath the roll. This will cause the flower to become rounder in shape. Let the rolls sit for 10 minutes, and then steam for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add minced garlic or ginger to the filling for extra flavor.
Use scallions instead of green onions for a different taste.
Add cooked ground pork or shrimp to the filling for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, as this will help create a light and fluffy roll.

- Be sure to let the dough rest for the specified amount of time to allow it to rise properly.

- When shaping the rolls, be gentle but firm in pressing down on the dough to create the flower-like design.

- Steam the rolls for the specified amount of time to ensure they are cooked through and have a soft texture.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Flower Roll can be served as a side dish or appetizer alongside a main course of stir-fried vegetables and rice.

Cooking Techniques

Chinese Flower Roll is steamed to perfection, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

- Canola oil can be used instead of sesame oil for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Chinese Flower Roll can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before shaping and steaming.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chinese Flower Roll on a decorative plate with a garnish of fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Flower Roll pairs well with hot tea or a light soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Chinese Flower Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam the rolls for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Flower Roll contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Flower Roll contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Flower Roll contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Flower Roll contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Flower Roll is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Chinese Flower Roll contains gluten from the all-purpose flour.

Summary

Chinese Flower Roll is a delicious and nutritious dish that is relatively low in calories and high in essential nutrients like iron and calcium.

Summary

Chinese Flower Roll is a delicious and visually stunning dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy texture and flavorful filling, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Try making this traditional Chinese dish at home for a unique and tasty treat!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mei in her bustling Chinatown kitchen. Mei was a remarkable cook, and I always admired her skill and creativity in the kitchen. As we sipped on fragrant tea, Mei suddenly disappeared into the depths of her pantry, only to reemerge with a dusty old cookbook in hand.

"This, my dear friend, is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family," Mei said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "It is for a delicate and delicious dish called Chinese Flower Roll. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I nodded eagerly, my heart fluttering with anticipation. Mei took me under her wing that day, teaching me the intricacies of preparing the ingredients and shaping the rolls with deft fingers. The process was like a dance, each movement deliberate and precise. Mei explained the importance of patience and attention to detail, urging me to embrace the art of cooking with all my senses.

As the rolls baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and herbs, Mei shared stories of her childhood in China and the cherished memories she had of cooking with her own grandmother. I listened intently, soaking in every word as if it were a precious gift.

When the rolls were finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. The first bite was a revelation, a symphony of flavors and textures that danced on my tongue. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me, knowing that I had learned a new skill from a dear friend who had opened her heart and kitchen to me.

From that day on, Chinese Flower Roll became a staple in my own kitchen. I recreated the recipe countless times, each batch a testament to the bond I shared with Mei and the love and passion that went into every dish I prepared. Over the years, I added my own unique twists and variations to the recipe, adapting it to suit my tastes and preferences.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of Chinese Flower Roll to a new generation. Each time I made the dish, I felt a connection to Mei and her ancestors, a sense of continuity and belonging that transcended time and space.

And so, the recipe for Chinese Flower Roll became more than just a dish to me. It was a symbol of friendship, love, and the joy of cooking. It reminded me of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish not just the body but the soul.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Mei's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and relationships that have shaped me into the cook I am today. The recipe for Chinese Flower Roll will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that happens when we open ourselves up to new possibilities and embrace the journey of discovery and growth.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, to share my love of food with others, and to pass on the traditions and recipes that have been entrusted to me. For in the act of cooking, we find not just sustenance but also joy, connection, and a sense of belonging that transcends borders and cultures. Thank you, Mei, for teaching me the recipe for Chinese Flower Roll. It is a gift that I will carry with me always.