You Tiau Fried Dough Sticks Recipe

 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:

1. 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.
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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!