dry frying bells

How to Make Crispy Fried Golden Bells (Gan Zha Xiang Ling)

Crispy Fried Golden Bells, or "Gan Zha Xiang Ling," is a beloved Zhejiang dish named for its crisp, bell-like crunch. Here’s a simple guide to making this savory snack.

Ingredients:

- 10-12 thin tofu skin sheets

- 150g minced pork (or chicken/ shrimp for variation)

- 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp white pepper

- 1 egg white, 1 tbsp cornstarch

- Oil for deep-frying

Steps:

1. Prepare the filling: Mix minced pork with soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, egg white, and cornstarch. Stir until sticky.

2. Assemble the bells: Soften tofu sheets in warm water for 10 seconds. Place a tablespoon of filling at one end, then roll tightly into a cylinder. Fold the ends inward to seal, forming a "bell" shape.

3. Fry until golden: Heat oil to 170°C (340°F). Deep-fry the bells in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve hot: Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with five-spice powder or salt, or enjoy with a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.

Tips: For extra crispiness, double-fry: first at 160°C until cooked, then at 190°C until golden. Enjoy this crunchy, savory snack as an appetizer or snack!

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