| Mandarin Pancakes (Bao Pin) ~ Version I 2 3/4 cups flour 1¼ cups boiling water 3 tbsp sesame oil 1. Sift the flour into a large bowl. Pour in the boiling water very slowly, gradually work into a warm dough. Knead gently for 10-12 minutes, then let stand for 10-12 minutes. 2. Form the dough into a roll 2-inches in diameter, then cut into ½-inch thick slices. Brush one slice with the sesame oil and lay another slice on top of it. Using a rolling pin, roll the double pieces until it spreads out to a diameter of about 5-6 inches, rolling from the center out. Use up all the dough this way. 3. Heat a large heavy frying pan over low heat. When it is very hot, place the rolled pieces of dough evenly over the pan. When any piece of the dough starts to bubble, turn it over to heat the other side. When ready (i.e. both sides have patches of brown, pull each piece of dough apart into the two original slices. 4. Fold each pancake into a half circle on the side which has been greased. Pile the pancakes up on a plate, and steam them for 10 minutes, before they are used as a wrap. Serves 6-10 Note: these can be refrigerated for several days and re-steamed when needed. Mandarin Pancakes ( Bao Pin ) Version II 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour sesame oil 1/2 cup boiling water 1/2 cup cold water 1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Pour 1/2 cup of boiling water into the well and work into the flour. Add 1/2 cup of cold water a little at a time and blend into the flour, using a wooden spoon, until the dough is smooth and soft. Work the dough for a further 5 minutes, cover with a damp cotton cloth, and leave to stand for 20 minutes. 2. Roll the ball of dough into a long, cylindrical sausage shape and cut into 24 pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball between the palms of your hands. Lightly flour a pastry board and rolling pin and roll the balls out onto thin, circular pancakes about 5 inches in diameter. 3. Place a skillet on the stove and lightly brush with sesame oil, add one of the pancakes, and cook briefly on both sides. When light brown spots appear (on both sides), pancake is done. 4. Continue until all pancakes are cooked. Place pancakes on a dish, cover with a towel, until ready to serve. Serve warm. Serves 12 |
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