Youtiao, often called Chinese doughnuts, are a delightful snack that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Imagine starting your day with a light, airy, and slightly salty treat that's perfect for dipping into warm soy milk or a bowl of congee. This traditional Chinese breakfast item has a special place in many hearts, often bringing back fond memories of morning markets or cozy family breakfasts.
Making youtiao at home might sound like a chef-level task, but it's actually quite doable. With basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can recreate this street food favorite right in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This Youtiao recipe is a hit because it sticks to the basics, focusing on traditional techniques to achieve that iconic texture and flavor. The magic happens when yeast meets warm water and flour, creating a dough that rises beautifully, promising the perfect puffiness once it hits the hot oil. The slight sweetness from the sugar balances the saltiness, making each bite an irresistible blend of flavors. Plus, the act of stretching and frying the dough transforms it into golden, crispy sticks of joy, with a tender interior that’s hard to resist.
What’s great about making youtiao at home is the satisfaction of mastering a recipe that’s been a staple in Chinese cuisine for generations. It’s not just about the cooking process but also the joy of sharing something handmade with your loved ones, turning an ordinary breakfast into a special occasion. And because this recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, it’s an approachable challenge for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re looking to dive into Chinese cooking or just want to try your hand at making something new and exciting, youtiao offers a delicious opportunity to expand your culinary skills and enjoy a taste of tradition.
Ingredients
All-purpose Flour: The base of the dough, gives structure. Substitute: Bread flour for a chewier texture.
Water: Hydrates the flour to form the dough. Substitute: Milk for a richer flavor.
Yeast: Helps the dough rise, making it light and airy. Substitute: Baking powder for a different leavening agent, but yeast is preferred for authenticity.
Sugar: Adds a slight sweetness to balance the flavors. Substitute: Honey for a natural sweetness.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough. Substitute: Soy sauce for a hint of umami, but use less due to its liquid form.
Tips
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.
- Let the dough rest adequately to ensure it's easy to shape and fry.
- Roll the dough evenly for uniform cooking.
- Fry at a consistent medium-high heat to achieve a golden brown exterior and soft interior.
- Place fried youtiao on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
How to Serve
Youtiao, also known as Chinese doughnuts, are a popular breakfast and snack item in Chinese cuisine, cherished for their crispy exterior and soft, airy interior. These golden-brown sticks of deliciousness are typically enjoyed fresh and hot, often paired with soy milk, congee, or rice porridge for a hearty start to the day. Their neutral taste also makes them versatile for dipping in sauces or soups.
- Dip in Soy Milk: A classic pairing, dip the youtiao in warm or cold soy milk for a delightful contrast in textures.
- With Congee: Break them into pieces and add to a bowl of congee for added crunch and flavor.
- As a Sandwich: Use them to sandwich savory fillings like eggs and cheese for a unique breakfast option.
Similar Recipes
Youtiao
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup water adjust as needed
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Cut the dough into strips, then lay one strip on top of another and press them together lightly with a chopstick.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough strips until they are golden brown and puffed up, about 2 minutes on each side.
- Remove the youtiao with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm as desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Let the dough rest adequately to ensure it's easy to shape and fry.
• Roll the dough evenly for uniform cooking.
• Fry at a consistent medium-high heat to achieve a golden brown exterior and soft interior.
• Place fried youtiao on paper towels to absorb excess oil.