You Tiau, also known as Chinese fried dough sticks, is a popular snack or breakfast item. This simplified recipe uses baking powder and baking soda instead of yeast, making it quick and easy while maintaining a delicious, airy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp softened butter
- ½ cup cold water + 2 tbsp extra if needed
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, egg, and butter. Gradually pour in the water while mixing.
- Knead the dough using an egg beater with dough hooks or by hand until it comes together. Rest the dough for 10 minutes.
- Knead and Rest:
- After the initial rest, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 4–5 hours. The dough can refrigerate overnight
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll out the rested dough into a long strip using a rolling pin. Flatten it into a rectangular shape about 3 inches wide and 1/16 inch thick.
- Cut the rectangle into 1/3-inch-wide strips. Stack two strips on each other and press down the center lengthwise with a damp chopstick to seal them together.
- Fry the Dough Sticks:
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should bubble and float to the surface.
- Gently stretch a strip of dough by holding both ends, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry one strip at a time.
- Use chopsticks to turn the dough stick continuously until both sides are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat until all strips are fried.
Tips:
- Serve warm with soy milk, congee, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- For extra crispiness, ensure the oil temperature stays consistent during frying.
Enjoy your homemade You Tiau!