sesame paste cakes

How to Make Sesame Sauce Pancakes: A Comprehensive Guide

Sesame sauce pancakes, or *majiangbing*, are a beloved Chinese street food known for their crispy crust, flaky layers, and savory sesame paste filling. Here’s a simple yet detailed guide to crafting this delicious snack at home.

Ingredients: For the dough, you’ll need 300ml warm water, 500g all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp oil. For the filling, mix 4 tbsp sesame paste, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a pinch of five-spice powder. Optional: chopped scallions, roasted sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for extra flavor.

Steps:

1. Prepare the dough: Combine flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add warm water, kneading into a smooth dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the filling: Thoroughly mix all filling ingredients in a bowl.

3. Shape the pancake: Divide the dough into 6 equal balls. Roll each into a thin circle, spread a generous layer of filling, and seal the edges. Flatten slightly, then roll out into a 0.5cm-thick pancake.

4. Cook: Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Add the pancake and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. For extra flakiness, gently press the pancake while cooking.

5. Serve: Cut into wedges and enjoy warm!

Tips: For a flakier texture, fold the dough like a turnover before rolling. Adjust sugar or soy sauce to taste. These pancakes are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven.

With crispy edges and a rich, nutty filling, homemade sesame sauce pancakes are sure to become a favorite!