If you’re craving a breakfast that is bursting with bold flavors yet comforting in every bite, the Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These pancakes come with a thin, chewy dough encasing a perfectly seasoned, plant-based filling that mimics the richness you’d expect from traditional meat versions without any animal products involved. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add some new, exciting flavors to your morning routine, this recipe delivers a wonderful combination of textures and tastes that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make all the difference when it comes to creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor in these pancakes. Each component is chosen for its specific role, whether it’s the elasticity of the dough or the savory punch of the filling.
- 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour: The foundation of your pancake dough for just the right chewiness.
- ¾ cup water: Hydrates the flour and brings the dough together smoothly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dough and filling.
- Ground plant-based meat alternative: A vegan substitute bringing meaty texture and protein to the filling.
- ½ teaspoon five spice powder: Adds warm aromatic depth with hints of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves.
- 1/8 teaspoon cumin: A subtle earthiness to lift the savoriness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides salty umami notes essential for authentic flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon sugar: Balances the salty and spicy elements perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling): To season the filling perfectly.
- 1 cup green cabbage (finely chopped): Adds crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet nuance.
- 1 scallion (chopped): Introduces a mild onion fragrance and bright color.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Essential for that nutty aroma and richness.
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper: Gentle heat to lift the filling’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Adds crunch and visual appeal on the pancake surface.
- 1/2 cup oil (for frying): For achieving that golden, crispy finish on the pancakes.
How to Make Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the all purpose flour, water, and salt in a large bowl until a smooth dough forms. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is elastic and soft. Cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out thin pancakes later.
Step 2: Make the Savory Filling
While the dough rests, prepare your vegan filling. In a bowl, combine your plant-based ground meat with five spice powder, cumin, soy sauce, sugar, salt, chopped cabbage, scallion, garlic powder, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly so every piece of filling is coated evenly with those amazing seasonings.
Step 3: Roll and Stuff the Pancakes
Divide the rested dough into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface. Place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center, then carefully fold and seal the dough around it, ensuring no filling escapes. Flatten the stuffed dough gently with your palm to make a neat pancake shape.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds onto the skillet before placing each pancake to achieve an irresistible toasted crust. Fry each pancake for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil on paper towels before serving.
How to Serve Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these pancakes even further, sprinkle freshly chopped scallions or a drizzle of chili oil for some spicy excitement. A sprinkle of extra toasted sesame seeds also enhances both flavor and presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your breakfast pancakes with a steaming bowl of miso soup or some pickled vegetables. These sides complement the savory stuffing with contrasting textures and highlight the dish’s Asian influences perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, slice the pancakes into smaller wedges and serve with assorted dipping sauces like hoisin, soy-ginger, or a spicy peanut sauce. Offering a variety turns this vegan breakfast staple into an interactive meal everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for an hour. Then, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze on busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp on both sides. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve that satisfying crispy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour for the dough?
Gluten-free flours don’t develop the same elasticity as all purpose flour, so you might get a more delicate or crumbly pancake dough. You can try a blend specifically designed for baking, but results may vary.
What are good vegan alternatives for ground meat in the filling?
Textured vegetable protein, crumbled tofu, or finely chopped mushrooms work wonderfully. Season them well to capture the rich umami flavor that traditionally comes from meat.
Is it necessary to let the dough rest?
Yes, resting the dough helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out super thin without springing back. Skipping this step might make shaping more challenging.
Can I bake the pancakes instead of frying?
You could bake them at a high temperature to crisp them up, but the frying technique creates that signature golden crust and toasty sesame taste that baking alone won’t replicate.
What dipping sauces go best with these pancakes?
Classic soy sauce mixed with a bit of rice vinegar and chili flakes, hoisin sauce, or a spicy peanut dipping sauce all provide wonderful contrasts and deepen the flavor experience.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe is a delightful way to energize your mornings with vibrant flavors and comforting textures all in one handheld treat. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how breakfast ever tasted so exciting. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this lovingly crafted recipe — I promise it will become a household favorite in no time.
PrintChinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes (Vegan Recipe) Recipe
These Chinese-Style Savoury Stuffed Breakfast Pancakes combine a tender, chewy dough with a flavorful, seasoned ground meat and cabbage filling. Crisply pan-fried to golden perfection, these pancakes are an ideal vegan-adapted breakfast or snack option, showcasing a balance of aromatic spices like five-spice powder and sesame oil with a delightful crunch from sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- Ground lamb, beef, or chicken (substitute with firm tofu or textured vegetable protein for vegan version)
- 1/2 teaspoon five spice powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup green cabbage (finely chopped)
- 1 scallion (chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the water while mixing until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until pliable. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: In another bowl, mix together your choice of ground meat (or vegan substitute), five spice powder, cumin, soy sauce, sugar, salt, finely chopped green cabbage, chopped scallion, garlic powder, sesame oil, white pepper, and sesame seeds until well combined. This mixture provides a balanced, flavorful filling.
- Assemble the pancakes: Divide the rested dough into small equal portions and roll each into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges well to prevent leakage during cooking.
- Fry the pancakes: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed pancakes seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, pressing slightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Serve: Allow the pancakes to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them hot as a savory breakfast or snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- To keep this recipe vegan, substitute ground meat with firm tofu crumbles or textured vegetable protein.
- Do not overfill the dough to avoid breakage during frying.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and soy sauce.
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned pan to prevent sticking.
- These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a skillet for crispiness.