pretzels

How to Make Savory Sesame Seed Flatbread (Jiao Yan Shao Bing)

Jiao Yan Shao Bing, a crispy yet chewy Chinese flatbread, is beloved for its savory topping of sesame seeds and coarse salt. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: For the dough, you’ll need 2 cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup warm water, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp active dry yeast, and ½ tsp salt. For the topping, mix 1 tbsp sesame seeds, ½ tsp coarse salt, 1 tsp cooking oil, and a pinch of five-spice powder.

Steps:

1. Prepare the dough: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Mix flour and salt in a bowl, then pour in the yeast mixture. Knead into a smooth dough, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled.

2. Shape the bread: Punch down the dough and divide into 6 balls. Roll each into a thin circle, brush with oil, and sprinkle the topping mixture. Fold the dough into a semicircle, then roll it again into a small round.

3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet, brush with a little oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Enjoy these warm, fragrant flatbreads as a snack or with soups! The key is a well-rested dough and even baking for that perfect crunch.