While Chinese cuisine is known for its savory dishes, such as Kung Pao Chicken or dumplings, there’s the mouthwatering donut. This lesser-known gem provides the perfect blend of simplicity with indulgence, helping to fill cravings for both sweet and savory flavors. Whether in dim sum brunches or served with a bowl of congee, these popular treats have always found their place in the hearts of food lovers.
What are Chinese Donuts?
Unlike the sugar-glazed rings one would find in a donut shop, Chinese donuts, or youtiao, come in long, golden-brown strips of dough deep-fried to perfection. They are crisp outside, fluffy inside, and slightly savory. Traditionally, these are enjoyed as a breakfast item or snack on a bed of rice porridge or blended soy milk. The neutral taste makes them versatile enough for frying, thus they are a staple in many Chinese households.
History Behind the Chinese Donut
A very interesting history in Chinese is related to these traditional donuts known as youtiao in Mandarin. These have been credited back to the Song Dynasty, 960–1279. According to legend, the origin of this crispy snack was born as a form of protest against a corrupt government official. Through time, however, that story became a tradition, and this honored the place of youtiao in the Chinese culinary culture. Today, they enjoy these donuts not only in China but throughout many Asian nations with their respective versions of this recipe.
Sweet and Savoury: The Diversity of Chinese Donuts
The beauty of the Chinese donut is the versatility it offers. Here are the ways to savor them:
Traditional Savoury Combinations
A very common combination in traditional Chinese breakfasts is youtiao with congee. The crispy texture of the donut contrasts with the creamy, savory porridge perfectly. You can also dip them into soy milk, for a classic combination that brings out their subtle flavor.
Variations Presented as Sweet
In some places sprinkle sugars or drizzle them with condensed milk over youtiao to make it sweet. For instance, in Thailand, you may be able to find its local version called pa thong ko, local Chinese donuts, served together with pandan custard.
Contemporary innovations
In the last few years, Chinese doughnuts have gained their way in some creative recipes. Some restaurants stuff them with savory fillings like minced pork or shrimp while others turn them into sandwich-style snacks. Now, they have been even adapted into dessert menus, served with ice cream or sweet sauces.
The Best Chinese Donuts Where to Find Them
For those wondering where to try these tasty snacks, local Chinese bakeries, dim sum restaurants, or even street food stalls on Chinatown streets are great places to start. adventurous eaters might be pleased to know that some Chinese restaurants are now inventing new styles of the good old snack. Look out for variations of Chinese donuts the next time you browse through a new menu.
A Personal Story
I still clearly remember my first encounter with Chinese donuts during a family trip to the more populous Chinatown. A bustling dim sum restaurant was visited. That day, my eyes caught a plate of golden youtiao. I didn’t know what it tasted like, but one bite into the crispy exterior revealed a light interior that just melts in your mouth. Coupled with a bowl of warm soy milk, it was a revelation. That simple yet satisfying experience turned me into a lifelong fan.
Making Chinese Donuts at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making Chinese donuts at home? While it takes some practice to master the dough and frying technique, the results are worth it. Here’s a basic outline:
Ingredients:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Water
Oil (for frying)
Steps:
Mix the dry ingredients, then slowly add water to form a dough.
Let the dough rest for an hour.
Roll out the dough, cut into strips, and press two strips together.
Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Homemade youtiao pairs wonderfully with soy milk or even a spicy dipping sauce.
Why You’ll Love Chinese Donuts
Whether you are a sweet breakfast lover or a savory snack enthusiast, there is something for every taste with Chinese donuts. Their crispy exterior and soft inner dough make them devilishly mouth-watering, and their versatility ensures a version for every taste bud. Perhaps it’s time to add these to your cooking bucket list, if not yet tried them.
