How to Make Scallion Pancake Pizza

Imagine this: the crisp, flaky layers of a scallion pancake combined with the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza. Scallion Pancake Pizza is one of those fusion dishes that sounds unique and tastes even better! If you’re ready to try something new that blends flavors from different cultures, this recipe is a winner. Whether you’re a pizza lover or a fan of Asian-inspired dishes, this recipe is a fun twist on comfort food that’s easy to make at home.

What Exactly is Scallion Pancake Pizza?

Scallion Pancake Pizza is all about taking the best parts of a classic scallion pancake and transforming it into a pizza crust. Scallion pancakes, or cong you bing, are popular Asian flatbreads made from flour, water, and chopped green onions. These pancakes are known for their crispy layers and light, chewy texture. When you use a scallion pancake as the pizza base, you get a deliciously crisp, slightly flaky crust that pairs beautifully with cheese, sauce, and toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what goes into making this tasty dish:

For the Scallion Pancake Crust:

• Flour: 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour for that perfect pancake dough.
• Water: ½ cup of hot water, which helps with the dough’s elasticity.
• Vegetable Oil: 1-2 tablespoons for that golden, flaky finish.
• Scallions: ½ cup, finely chopped, to add that signature flavor.
• Salt: A pinch, to taste.

For the Pizza Toppings:

• Pizza Sauce: ½ cup. You could also try hoisin sauce if you want a hint of sweetness.
• Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or your favorite cheese blend).
• Toppings: Try ½ cup of cooked mushrooms, ¼ cup of sliced bell peppers, or any other favorites.
• Extras: Red pepper flakes for a little heat and fresh basil or arugula for garnish.

How to Make Scallion Pancake Pizza

This recipe has a few steps, but each one is straightforward. Here’s how you can make this fusion dish from scratch.

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add in the hot water while stirring until the dough begins to form.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and stretchy.
3. Rest the Dough: Cover it with a damp towel and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to roll.

Step 2: Shape the Pancake

1. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle about ¼ inch thick.
2. Add the Scallions: Brush the rolled dough with a bit of vegetable oil and sprinkle the chopped scallions evenly over the surface.
3. Layer It Up: Roll the dough into a log shape, then coil it into a spiral (think of a cinnamon roll). This step creates layers that make the pancake wonderfully crispy.
4. Flatten: Gently roll the spiral into a flat circle again, being careful not to press too hard. Aim for a size close to a small pizza.

Step 3: Cook the Scallion Pancake Crust

1. Heat the Pan: Warm a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Make sure it’s hot before adding the dough.
2. Cook Until Golden: Place the pancake in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until it’s crispy and golden. This makes sure your “crust” is strong enough for toppings.
3. Repeat if Needed: If you’re making more than one pizza, repeat with the second portion of dough.

Step 4: Add the Pizza Toppings

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Sauce It Up: Place the cooked scallion pancake on a baking sheet and spread a layer of pizza sauce (or hoisin sauce for a sweet twist).
3. Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, then add your favorite toppings. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even olives work great.
4. Bake to Perfection: Pop it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Remove from the oven and add fresh basil or arugula leaves on top for a final touch of flavor.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut it up and enjoy! The scallion pancake crust is best when served hot and crispy.

Tips for the Best Scallion Pancake Pizza

1. Play with the Sauce: While traditional pizza sauce is tasty, hoisin sauce or a touch of sesame oil can add an interesting twist.
2. Boost the Crunch: If you like extra crunch, cook the pancake a bit longer in the skillet before baking.
3. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to try different combinations like red onions, thinly sliced zucchini, or even grilled chicken.

Why Scallion Pancake Pizza is So Delicious

This recipe combines two beloved foods – pizza and scallion pancakes – into one unique dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The scallion pancake crust has a thin, crisp texture with a subtle oniony flavor that complements any topping you throw on. Plus, the layering technique in the dough gives the crust a flaky texture that holds up well to cheese and toppings. Whether you’re a fan of thin-crust pizza or just want something a little different, Scallion Pancake Pizza brings a fun, tasty twist to your regular pizza night.

Fun Variations to Try

• Korean-Inspired: Mix gochujang (Korean chili paste) with soy sauce for the base, then add kimchi and green onions for toppings.
• Seafood Lovers: Try cooked shrimp or crab on top with a drizzle of Japanese mayo for a seafood twist.
• All Veggie: Load up with mushrooms, bell peppers, and thin zucchini slices for a veggie-packed option.

Bringing It All Together

There you have it – a fun, easy recipe that brings a new twist to pizza night. Scallion Pancake Pizza is light, crispy, and loaded with layers of flavor that make it both familiar and adventurous. This fusion dish can be a great conversation starter with friends, or a delicious treat to make on a cozy night in.

If you’re ready to try a pizza with a difference, this recipe might just be the new favorite you didn’t know you needed. Happy cooking, and enjoy your slice of Scallion Pancake Pizza!