Savory Chinese crepes, also known as Jianbing, are a beloved street food that delivers layers of crispy, chewy, and flavorful goodness in every bite. This easy recipe brings the authentic taste of this classic breakfast treat right into your kitchen, combining a thin, savory pancake with eggs, scallions, and your choice of tasty fillings. Perfect for a quick meal or snack, these crepes are as satisfying as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Chinese Crepes
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple to make yet packed with bold, satisfying flavors and textures. The crispy edges paired with the soft, savory center create an irresistible combo that’s customizable to your liking — whether you add spicy sauce, crunchy lettuce, or tender meat. Quick, versatile, and downright delicious, these crepes are sure to become a favorite anytime hunger strikes!
Ingredients for Savory Chinese Crepes
Creating Savory Chinese Crepes is a breeze with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
Eggs: These add richness and help bind the crepe together, giving it a lovely texture.
All-purpose flour: The base of the batter, providing structure. You can swap it for a gluten-free blend if needed.
Water: Essential for creating a smooth batter. Adjust the amount for your desired thickness.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish.
Sesame oil: A drizzle brings a nutty aroma and depth to the crepes.
Soy sauce: This adds umami and a savory kick, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Hoisin sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Cooked and shredded chicken or tofu: Optional, but they provide protein and heartiness to the crepes.
Fresh spinach or lettuce leaves: These add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color.
Chili sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, this optional ingredient can spice things up!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Savory Chinese Crepes
Making Savory Chinese Crepes is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
With just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying these delicious treats.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, and salt until the mixture is smooth.
Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
This resting period allows the flour to hydrate, resulting in a better texture.
Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 2: Heat the Pan
While the batter rests, heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat.
Add a light drizzle of sesame oil to the pan.
This not only prevents sticking but also infuses a lovely flavor into the crepes.
Make sure the pan is hot enough before pouring in the batter.
Step 3: Cook the Crepe
Pour about ½ cup of the batter into the pan.
Swirl it around to create a thin, even layer.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the surface looks set.
This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Add the Egg and Fillings
Crack an egg right on top of the crepe.
Gently spread it over the surface with a spatula.
Sprinkle the chopped green onions and any additional fillings like chicken or tofu.
Drizzle soy sauce and hoisin sauce over the top for that extra flavor kick.
Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the egg is fully cooked.
Step 5: Fold and Serve
Carefully fold the crepe in half, then in half again to form a triangle.
Slide it onto a plate, and repeat with the remaining batter and fillings.
Serve warm, and don’t forget to add chili sauce on the side if you like a little heat!
Enjoy your homemade Savory Chinese Crepes!
Tips for Success
Let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes for a smoother texture.
Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping.
Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the crepes.
Experiment with fillings to find your favorite combinations.
For extra crunch, add shredded carrots or bell peppers to the mix.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl: A standard bowl works, but a whisking bowl with a spout makes pouring easier.
Non-stick skillet or crepe pan: If you don’t have a crepe pan, a regular frying pan will do just fine.
Spatula: A flexible spatula helps in flipping the crepes without tearing them.
Variations of Savory Chinese Crepes
Vegetable Delight: Load your crepes with a mix of sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for a colorful, veggie-packed option.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the batter for an extra layer of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the batter for a fragrant twist.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, on top of the egg for a melty, indulgent treat.
Breakfast Style: Swap out the savory fillings for breakfast favorites like crumbled sausage and diced tomatoes for a hearty morning meal.
Serving Suggestions for Savory Chinese Crepes
Side Salad: Pair your crepes with a light cucumber and sesame salad for a refreshing contrast.
Dip Options: Serve with extra soy sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled green tea or a light beer.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for a pop of color.
FAQs about Savory Chinese Crepes
Can I make Savory Chinese Crepes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using. You can also cook the crepes ahead of time and reheat them in a skillet when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use as a filling for my crepes?
The beauty of Savory Chinese Crepes lies in their versatility. You can fill them with cooked chicken, tofu, fresh vegetables, or even cheese. The options are endless! Just make sure to balance flavors and textures for the best experience.
Are Savory Chinese Crepes gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make gluten-free Savory Chinese Crepes by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the other ingredients, like sauces, are also gluten-free.
How do I store leftover crepes?
Store any leftover crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave. They’ll still taste delicious!
Can I freeze Savory Chinese Crepes?
Yes, you can freeze cooked crepes! Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts
Creating Savory Chinese Crepes is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to the table. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, these crepes are sure to become a favorite. The best part? You can customize them to suit your cravings, making every experience unique. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure.
Savory Chinese Crepes, also known as Jian Bing, are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be customized with various fillings.
Ingredients
Scale
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or tofu (optional)
1 cup fresh spinach or lettuce leaves
1 tablespoon chili sauce (optional)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, and salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.
Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with sesame oil.
Pour about ½ cup of the batter into the pan, swirling it to create a thin layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the surface is set.
Crack an egg on top of the crepe and gently spread it over the surface. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and any additional fillings like chicken or tofu.
Drizzle soy sauce and hoisin sauce over the top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the egg is cooked through.
Carefully fold the crepe in half and then in half again to form a triangle. Slide it onto a plate.
Repeat with the remaining batter and fillings. Serve warm with chili sauce on the side, if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
