Jian Bing Chinese Crepes Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the crepe batter, providing structure and texture.

Water: Helps to achieve the right consistency for the batter.

Milk: Adds richness and a slight creaminess to the crepe.

Egg: Used in the batter and also spread on the crepe for additional flavor and texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the crepe.

Scallions: Adds a fresh, onion-like flavor.

Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbaceous note.

Crispy wonton wrappers: Adds a crunchy texture to the crepe.

Hoisin sauce: A sweet and savory sauce that adds depth of flavor.

Chili sauce: Adds a spicy kick to the crepe.

When making Jian Bing, ensure your batter is smooth and lump-free by whisking it thoroughly. This will help create a thin, even crepe when you pour it into the pan. Additionally, when spreading the egg over the crepe, use a spatula to distribute it evenly, ensuring that every bite has a consistent texture and flavor.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the crepes slightly healthier.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a subtle depth of flavor to the crepe batter.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that provides a slight nutty flavor.

• large beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoon water) is a vegan alternative that helps bind the batter.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a bit of umami flavor along with the saltiness.

• large beaten eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be blended to a smooth consistency and used as a vegan alternative to eggs.

• chopped scallions - Substitute with chopped chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct substitute.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro.

• crispy wonton wrappers - Substitute with crispy tortilla strips: Crispy tortilla strips provide a similar crunch and can be used as a substitute.

• hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce has a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• chili sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar level of heat and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• Allow the crepes to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place a sheet of parchment paper between each crepe to prevent them from sticking together.

• Store the crepes in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.

• For short-term storage, keep the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, place the container in the freezer. Crepes can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, reheat refrigerated crepes in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed through.

• For frozen crepes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid to ensure even heating.

• Avoid microwaving the crepes as it can make them rubbery and less enjoyable.

• If you have leftover hoisin sauce and chili sauce, store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week.

• Scallions and cilantro can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each jian bing in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan. Place the jian bing in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.

• Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Place the jian bing on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the jian bing in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the wonton wrappers.

• If you have a steamer, bring water to a boil and place the jian bing on a heatproof plate inside the steamer. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the crepes soft and moist.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine and whisk together the flour, water, milk, beaten egg, and salt until smooth.

• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the batter ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency.

• Non-stick pan: Ideal for cooking the crepes without them sticking to the surface, ensuring an even cook.

• Ladle: Helps in pouring the right amount of batter into the pan to create a thin crepe.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the egg evenly over the crepe and for folding the crepe over the crispy wonton wrapper.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, water, milk, hoisin sauce, and chili sauce.

• Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring smaller quantities like the salt.

• Chopping board: Provides a surface for chopping the scallions and cilantro.

• Knife: Essential for finely chopping the scallions and cilantro.

• Small bowl: Useful for beating the eggs before adding them to the batter and for the additional eggs used in the recipe.

• Brush: Handy for lightly greasing the non-stick pan before cooking the crepes.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop scallions and cilantro ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use a blender: Mix the batter ingredients in a blender for a smoother consistency and quicker preparation.

Pre-cook wonton wrappers: Fry the wonton wrappers beforehand and store them in an airtight container.

Set up a cooking station: Arrange all ingredients and tools within reach to streamline the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Make multiple crepes at once and reheat them when needed.