Flower Scallion Rolls

Flower Scallion Rolls Recipe from China | Ingredients: flour, yeast, scallions

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

Introduction

Flower Scallion Rolls are a delicious and unique Chinese dish that combines the flavors of scallions and sesame oil in a fluffy, steamed bun. These rolls are not only tasty but also visually appealing, with their flower-like shape that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Flower Scallion Rolls have been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for many years. The combination of scallions and sesame oil in a fluffy bun is a classic flavor profile that is loved by many. These rolls are often served as a side dish or appetizer in Chinese restaurants and are a favorite among those who enjoy traditional Chinese flavors.

Ingredients

3.5 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast
1.5 cups lukewarm water
0.33 cups sesame oil
1 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
scallions, finely chopped, as desired

How to prepare

Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Place the flour in a large bowl.
Begin adding the yeast in a steady stream while stirring.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic, adding a bit of flour or water as needed.
Let the dough rise for 3 hours.
Dissolve the baking powder in 0.5 tbsp of cold water.
Knead the baking powder mixture into the risen dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
To prepare rolls, roll the dough into a 24-inch square.
Lightly rub the sesame oil over the dough using your fingers.
Sprinkle salt and scallion over the dough.
Roll the dough up tightly, similar to rolling up a sleeping bag or making jelly rolls.
Ensure the ends are even.
Cut the dough into 2-inch pieces.
Press down lengthwise on the center of each bun using a lightly oiled chopstick, applying enough pressure to spread the layers apart without cutting through.
The layers will spread out to the sides, creating two ovals joined in the center.
Pick up the dough by its smooth, rounded ends and pull until they meet underneath the roll.
Pinch the ends together underneath the roll.
This will give the roll a rounder shape.
Let the rolls sit for 10 minutes and steam them on high heat for 20 minutes.

Variations

You can customize Flower Scallion Rolls by adding different fillings, such as minced pork, shrimp, or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic, ginger, or soy sauce, to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Flower Scallion Rolls, it is important to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This will ensure that the rolls have a light and fluffy texture when steamed. Additionally, be sure to let the dough rise for the full 3 hours to allow the yeast to work its magic and create a soft and airy bun.

Serving Suggestions

Flower Scallion Rolls can be served as a side dish or appetizer alongside your favorite Chinese dishes. They pair well with steamed vegetables, stir-fried meats, or a bowl of hot and sour soup.

Cooking Techniques

Flower Scallion Rolls are traditionally steamed, but you can also bake them in the oven for a different texture. Simply place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sesame oil on hand, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute. You can also use green onions in place of scallions for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Flower Scallion Rolls ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and steaming the rolls.

Presentation Ideas

To make Flower Scallion Rolls even more visually appealing, you can garnish them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped scallions before serving. You can also serve them on a bed of lettuce or cabbage for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Flower Scallion Rolls pair well with a variety of Chinese dishes, such as Kung Pao chicken, beef and broccoli, or sweet and sour pork. They also go well with a side of steamed rice or noodles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Flower Scallion Rolls contains approximately 250 calories. These rolls are a relatively low-calorie dish, making them a great option for those looking to enjoy a tasty treat without overindulging.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Flower Scallion Rolls contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of Flower Scallion Rolls contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The fat in these rolls comes primarily from the sesame oil, which adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Flower Scallion Rolls contains approximately 5 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is an important part of a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Flower Scallion Rolls are a good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, the scallions in the rolls provide a dose of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.

Alergens

Flower Scallion Rolls contain wheat and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving these rolls to guests.

Summary

Overall, Flower Scallion Rolls are a delicious and relatively healthy dish that is sure to please your taste buds. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, these rolls make a great addition to any meal.

Summary

Flower Scallion Rolls are a delicious and visually stunning Chinese dish that is sure to impress your guests. With a fluffy texture and a savory filling of scallions and sesame oil, these rolls are a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother had invited a group of women from the neighboring villages to come together for a day of cooking and sharing recipes. I remember the excitement in the air as the women arrived, each carrying a dish they had prepared at home.

As we all gathered around the large wooden table in my grandmother's kitchen, the women began to share their recipes and stories. There was laughter and chatter as they talked about their families and the dishes that had been passed down through generations. It was a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and I felt privileged to be a part of it.

One woman in particular caught my attention. She was a tall, elegant lady with a gentle smile and a twinkle in her eye. Her name was Mrs. Wang, and she had brought with her a recipe for Flower Scallion Rolls. As she began to demonstrate how to make the rolls, I was captivated by her skill and expertise. The way she moved with such grace and precision, the way she measured each ingredient with care and attention to detail – it was like watching a master at work.

Mrs. Wang explained that the recipe for Flower Scallion Rolls had been passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a friend many years ago. She spoke of the tradition and history behind the dish, of how it had been a favorite in her family for generations. I could sense the pride in her voice as she talked about the rolls, and I knew that I wanted to learn how to make them myself.

After Mrs. Wang had finished making the rolls, she invited me to come and help her. I eagerly joined her at the table, watching closely as she shaped the dough and filled it with the fragrant scallions and herbs. She showed me how to roll the dough into a tight spiral, creating a beautiful flower pattern that would be revealed when the rolls were baked.

As we worked together, Mrs. Wang shared stories of her own childhood, of days spent in the kitchen with her grandmother, learning the secrets of traditional Chinese cooking. She spoke of the importance of passing on these recipes to the next generation, of preserving a piece of history and culture through the art of cooking.

By the time we had finished making the Flower Scallion Rolls, I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards Mrs. Wang. Not only had she taught me a new recipe, but she had also opened my eyes to the power of food as a means of connecting with others and preserving our heritage. I knew that I would always cherish the memory of that day in my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by women who shared a love of cooking and a passion for tradition.

Since that day, I have made Mrs. Wang's Flower Scallion Rolls many times, each time savoring the memories of that special day in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with my own family and friends, passing on a piece of Mrs. Wang's legacy to the next generation. And as I watch my grandchildren now gather around the table, eager to learn and create in the kitchen, I know that the tradition of Flower Scallion Rolls will live on for years to come.