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Chinese scallion pancakes, or 'cong you bing', are a beloved savory street food and breakfast staple originating from China. They are made from a simple dough of flour and water, layered with minced scallions (green onions) and often sesame oil, then pan-fried until golden and crispy.
This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the wheat flour, with a moderate amount of fat from the oil used for frying. A typical serving provides energy and small amounts of iron and B vitamins, with a rough calorie count of around 250-350 per pancake depending on size and oil content.
The unique, flaky texture is achieved by rolling the dough thin, spreading it with oil and scallions, then rolling it up like a jelly roll and coiling it before flattening—a technique that creates many delicate layers. Nutritionally, while not a high-protein food, the scallions provide a fresh, pungent flavor and a boost of vitamins A, C, and K.