When I think of breakfast, my mind often takes a delightful detour through the bustling streets of China. There’s something about the charm of crunchy, golden fried crackers paired with delicate crepes that makes my taste buds dance.
You don't just eat this dish; you savor each layer of texture and flavor. Pairing this authentic Chinese breakfast with a hot cup of jasmine tea elevates the experience even further. And let me tell you, this dish is a game-changer, especially on busy mornings when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Authentic Chinese breakfast is a treasure trove of flavors and textures. Growing up, I watched my family whip up creative breakfast dishes with the simplest ingredients, transforming our mornings into culinary adventures.
Not only is this meal delicious, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia that fills my heart with warmth. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures the essence of that experience while being easy to recreate in your kitchen.
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In China, breakfast is much more than a meal; it’s a ritual. From steamy buns to savory congee, breakfast options are as diverse as the regions they come from. One standout dish, however, is the combination of crispy fried crackers and savory crepes. This dish is light enough to start your day without weighing you down, yet it’s filled with rich flavors that can satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
Here's what you'll need to whip up this delightful breakfast:
- For the Crackers:
- 16 store-bought wonton wrappers
- Cooking oil, for frying
- For the Batter:
- 70 g all-purpose flour (about ½ cup)
- 40 g whole wheat flour (about ¼ cup)
- 300 ml water (roughly 1¼ cups)
- For the Crepes:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- 4 teaspoons finely chopped scallions
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (new addition)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (new addition)
- For the Sauce:
- 4 teaspoons soybean paste
- 4 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
- Optional for Garnish:
- Fresh coriander
- Lettuce leaves
Ingredients From : redhousespice.com
Let’s get cooking! This dish involves frying crackers, mixing and cooking the crepe batter, and then combining everything into a hearty breakfast wrap. It may sound like a lot, but I'll walk you through each step. Here we go!
Start by preparing your wonton crackers. Take a wonton wrapper and lightly brush one side with water. Attach another wrapper on top and press down firmly using a rolling pin to seal them together. This will create a delightful crunch once they are fried. Carefully cut two lines into the middle to help them fry evenly. Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers—this should yield about eight pairs in total.
Next, heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a wok or deep frying pot. Using a thermometer, bring the temperature up to 180°C (360°F). Once the oil is ready, gently slide in the sealed wonton wrappers.
You’ll want to flip them occasionally until both sides achieve a lovely golden-brown color. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overdo it, as burnt crackers will ruin your meal. Once done, transfer the crispy treats onto a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
While your crackers cool, it’s time to focus on the crepe batter. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour. Gradually pour in the water while whisking to avoid any lumps. You want a smooth batter that’s runny yet velvety—this is what gives the crepes their delicate texture.
Now, let’s heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. A pan size of approximately 28 cm (11 inches) works best for even cooking. When it’s warm but not too hot (you should be able to touch it comfortably), pour in about a quarter of your batter. Tilt the pan to ensure the batter spreads evenly across the surface.
Watch closely as the batter cooks; when you see that there’s no runny liquid remaining, it’s time to crack an egg right in the center. Using the back of a spoon, gently break the yolk and spread it over the crepe. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top for added flavor.
Once the crepe seems firm enough and can easily slide in the pan, carefully flip it over. A handy trick is to slide the crepe onto the underside of a large lid before placing it back in the pan to finish cooking.
After flipping the crepe, turn off the heat. The residual heat will finish cooking the egg without making it rubbery. Brush the surface with soybean paste and chili garlic sauce according to your taste. For an extra burst of freshness, top with cilantro and lettuce leaves to balance out the flavors.
Now, lay two pieces of your fried crackers down the middle of the crepe. Fold the crepe over to envelop all the delicious fillings. Ah, perfection on a plate! Serve it immediately, and let the flavors wrap around you!
If you're short on time, don’t fret! You can fry the crackers ahead of time. Once they cool completely, store them in an airtight container for up to four days. The crepe batter can chill in the fridge overnight—just give it a good stir before using.
- Adjust the spiciness of the chili garlic sauce to suit your taste.
- For added texture, try using chopped peanuts as a garnish.
- If you like a bit of sweetness, a drizzle of hoisin sauce can be a delightful addition.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid soggy or burnt crackers.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor—don't hesitate to experiment with parsley or dill!
To keep your breakfast components fresh, store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you have leftover crepes, place them between layers of parchment paper and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat them in a pan before serving.
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Protein: 10 g
Here are five creative ways to enjoy your authentic Chinese breakfast:
1. Savoury Yogurt Dip: Dip your assembled crepe in tangy yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a bowl of mixed seasonal fruits to balance richness with sweetness.
3. Spicy Pickles: Pair with spicy pickled vegetables to give an exciting crunch and heat.
4. Hot Tea or Coffee: Enjoy with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for that perfect breakfast combo that warms you from the inside out.
5. Sliced Avocado: For a creamier texture, place some sliced avocado in the wrap for extra nutrients and flavor.
Here are some great alternatives if you're missing an ingredient or just want to switch it up:
1. Substitute Wonton Wrappers: Instead of wonton wrappers, you can use spring roll wrappers for a different texture.
2. Alternative Flours: For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour in place of all-purpose or whole wheat flour.
3. Egg Replacement: If you want a vegan option, consider using a blend of silken tofu and nutritional yeast instead of eggs.
4. Different Sauces: Instead of soybean paste and chili garlic sauce, you might enjoy hoisin sauce or even a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
5. Vegetable Options: Try adding grated carrots or bell peppers into the crepe mixture for added nutrition and color.
With the right mix of flavors and textures, this authentic Chinese breakfast recipe is a delightful way to kickstart your day. It's easy to put together, packed with ingredients you can find at your local market, and offers room for creativity.
Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo, this dish brings joy and satisfaction in every bite. So grab your ingredients and let's chow down on a delightful breakfast!
Authentic Chinese breakfast is a treasure trove of flavors and textures. Growing up, I watched my family whip up creative breakfast dishes with the simplest ingredients, transforming our mornings into culinary adventures.
- Adjust the spiciness of the chili garlic sauce to suit your taste.
- For added texture, try using chopped peanuts as a garnish.
- If you like a bit of sweetness, a drizzle of hoisin sauce can be a delightful addition.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid soggy or burnt crackers.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor—don't hesitate to experiment with parsley or dill!
Willie Regan is a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, inspired by the comforting, traditional recipes passed down from his grandmother. Based in Worcester, Willie shares wholesome, heartwarming dishes through his blog Grandma’s Tasty Recipes, blending nostalgic flavors with modern dietary insights. His mission is to bring people together through food, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished memories around the table.