5 Reasons Chinese Fried Breadsticks should be your new favorite snack

Did you know that over 100 million Chinese Fried Breadsticks are consumed daily across Asia? This golden, crispy delight has been a breakfast staple in China for centuries, yet remains relatively undiscovered in Western countries. What makes these simple-looking sticks so irresistibly addictive that they’ve sustained popularity for over 1,000 years? The answer lies in their perfect balance of textures: a crackling exterior that gives way to a light, airy interior that melts in your mouth.

Traditional Chinese Fried Breadsticks, known as Youtiao in Mandarin, are the ultimate Crispy Morning Snack that pairs wonderfully with congee, soy milk, or simply enjoyed on their own. Let’s explore why these golden treasures deserve a permanent spot in your snack rotation.

5 Reasons Chinese Fried Breadsticks should be your new favorite snack

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 8 breadsticks 1x

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Description

Crispy, golden-brown Chinese Fried Breadsticks (Youtiao) that are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish. These light and airy breadsticks are delicious when served with congee or soy milk.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg white (optional, can be omitted for vegan version)
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Cooking spray (if using air fryer)

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Instructions

1. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Combine egg white, warm water, and oil in a separate bowl.
3. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, kneading until smooth.
4. Cover dough and let rest for 30 minutes (or overnight in refrigerator).
5. Heat oil to 375°F in a deep pot or wok.
6. Shape dough into long strips and fry until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Notes

• For overnight preparation, bring dough to room temperature for 30 minutes before using.
• Maintain oil temperature at 375°F for best results.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot while frying.
• Air fryer option: Spray with cooking spray, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
• Test oil readiness by dropping a small piece of dough – it should sizzle and rise immediately.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Deep Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 breadstick
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Chinese fried breadsticks, youtiao, Chinese breakfast, fried dough, Asian bread

Ingredients List for Chinese Fried Breadsticks

To create these delectable treats, you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with bread flour for extra chewiness)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (apple cider vinegar works too)
• 3/4 cup water, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
• 1 egg white (optional, for extra crispiness)
• Vegetable oil for deep frying (approximately 4 cups)

The beauty of Chinese Fried Breadsticks lies in their simplicity – basic pantry ingredients transform into something extraordinary through the magic of proper technique.

Timing

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 60 minutes resting time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

While this might seem lengthy compared to instant breakfast options, it’s actually 30% faster than most yeast-based bread recipes. Plus, the active cooking time is minimal, allowing you to prepare other breakfast items while the dough rests.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chinese Fried Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents. In a separate bowl, mix the water, vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should bounce back slightly when poked. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, wet your hands slightly and continue kneading.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 60 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the leavening agents to work their magic, resulting in a lighter texture.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

After resting, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 1-inch wide strips, then place two strips on top of each other. Press the center lightly with a chopstick, then gently pull to stretch the dough to about 8 inches long.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower the breadsticks into the hot oil one at a time. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pot – fry in batches for best results.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the breadsticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy for the ultimate Chinese Fried Breadstick experience.

Nutritional Information about Chinese Fried Breadsticks

Per serving (1 breadstick):

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 2g

While Chinese Fried Breadsticks are indulgent treats, they contain 20% less fat than typical American donuts and zero added sugar, making them a relatively lighter breakfast option.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe of Chinese Fried Breadsticks

For those watching their calorie intake, consider these modifications:

• Air fryer option: Spray shaped dough with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for a version with 65% less oil
• Whole wheat substitution: Replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added fiber
• Baked variation: Brush with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden
• Reduced-sodium version: Cut salt in half and add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for flavor enhancement

Serving Suggestions of Chinese Fried Breadsticks

Traditional Chinese Fried Breadsticks shine brightest when paired with complementary foods:

• Dip in warm soy milk for an authentic Chinese breakfast experience
• Serve alongside rice congee (porridge) for a satisfying meal
• Wrap in scallion pancakes for a “breadstick sandwich”
• Dunk in hot tea or coffee as a morning treat
• Pair with savory tofu pudding topped with soy sauce and green onions
• Serve with a side of sweetened condensed milk for a dessert-like option

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can stumble with Chinese Fried Breadsticks. Here’s how to ensure success:

1. Skipping the resting period – this crucial step affects the texture and rise
2. Oil temperature too low (results in greasy sticks) or too high (burnt exterior, raw interior)
3. Overworking the dough, which creates tough breadsticks
4. Using expired leavening agents – fresh baking powder and baking soda are essential
5. Cutting uneven strips, leading to inconsistent cooking

Storing Tips for the Chinese Fried Breadsticks Recipe

Chinese Fried Breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh, but these storage methods can help maintain quality:

• Store completely cooled leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness
• Freeze uncooked dough sticks for up to 1 month; thaw completely before frying
• Pre-mixed dry ingredients can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months

Conclusion

Chinese Fried Breadsticks represent the perfect harmony of simplicity and satisfaction – a testament to how basic ingredients can create extraordinary results through proper technique. Their versatility makes them suitable for both sweet and savory pairings, while their crispy exterior and soft interior provide an unmatched textural experience that keeps people coming back for generations.

Whether you’re looking to expand your breakfast repertoire or seeking an impressive yet approachable culinary project, these golden delights deserve a place in your kitchen. Try making a batch this weekend – your breakfast table (and impressed family members) will thank you!

FAQs

Can I prepare the dough for Chinese Fried Breadsticks the night before?
Yes! Prepare the dough, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping and frying.

Why did my breadsticks deflate after frying?
This typically happens when the oil temperature is too low. Use a thermometer to maintain 375°F, and don’t overcrowd the pot, which can lower the temperature.

Are Chinese Fried Breadsticks vegan?
The traditional recipe isn’t vegan due to the egg white, but you can easily omit it for a vegan version with minimal texture difference.

Can I use air fryer instead of deep frying?
Absolutely! Spray the shaped dough with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
The oil should reach 375°F on a thermometer. Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough into the oil – it should sizzle immediately and rise to the surface, but not darken too quickly.