Yields:
4 Servings
Difficulty: Medium
Prep Time: 45 Mins
Cook Time:
10 Mins
Total Time:
55 Mins
Youtiao, also known as Chinese deep-fried dough sticks, is a traditional fried pastry in China and a popular breakfast choice for many people. It features a golden and crispy exterior with a soft and doughy interior, offering a diverse and delightful texture. Youtiao can be enjoyed alongside soy milk or porridge, making it a nutritious and delicious combination. Whether as a quick breakfast before rushing out in the morning or a leisurely brunch on weekends, Youtiao is a classic selection. It not only fills the stomach but also brings enjoyment and fond memories on one’s taste buds.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Mix well to combine.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the water. Stir well until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the mixing bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Roll the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 6x10 inches. Lightly brush it with vegetable oil, then cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight. Allow the dough to naturally come to room temperature, which usually takes about 1 hour.
Cut the dough into long, thin strips, approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. Take two dough strips and stack them together. Repeat this process with the remaining dough strips, attempting to match similar sizes and lengths. Use chopsticks to gently press down along the long edge of the dough strips. The indentation should be in the middle of each strip.
Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep pot to 375°F (190°C). When the oil is hot, hold the two ends of the dough strip and stretch it to match the length of your pot. Carefully place a few dough strips into the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry the dough strips for approximately 1 to 2 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy.
Using a pair of chopsticks, transfer the fried donut sticks to a cookie rack to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough sticks until all the donut sticks are cooked. Serve the Chinese Deep-Fried Donut Sticks warm.
Notes
Note: Be cautious when working with hot oil and always follow proper safety precautions.