Hong Kong Style Mango Pancakes: A Sweet and Refreshing Delight
Hong Kong-style mango pancakes are a beloved dessert that has become popular worldwide for their light, airy texture and sweet, fruity filling. Often served as part of dim sum, these pancakes feature thin, soft crepes wrapped around a creamy mango filling, offering a refreshing contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking to try something new or recreate a traditional treat, these mango pancakes will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Hong Kong.
For more tropical dessert ideas, check out tropical dessert recipes. If you’re interested in making other popular dim sum desserts, take a look at this dim sum dessert guide.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
This Hong Kong-style mango pancake recipe is simple and quick to make, with just a few ingredients. Here’s how to make them at home:
Ingredients
Mango filling:
- 2 ripe mangoes (peeled and diced)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the pancakes (crepes):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- A pinch of salt
For garnish (optional):
- Mango slices
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Make the mango filling: In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mangoes, heavy cream, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more cream or water to reach your desired consistency. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to thicken further.
- Prepare the pancake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, egg, water, sugar, vegetable oil, and salt until smooth. The batter should have a thin consistency, similar to a crepe batter.
- Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of oil. Pour a small amount of batter into the pan, tilting it to spread the batter evenly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until the pancake is light golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Assemble the pancakes: Once the pancakes are cooled, spread a generous tablespoon of the mango filling in the center of each pancake. Fold the sides of the pancake inward to create a round shape, then gently fold the top and bottom to fully enclose the mango filling.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh mango slices and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Serve chilled for the best texture.
Advanced Techniques
For those looking to perfect their Hong Kong-style mango pancakes, here are some advanced techniques to consider:
1. Use Fresh Mango Puree
For an even smoother texture, you can make a fresh mango puree by blending the mangoes with a little bit of sugar and lemon juice. This will create a richer flavor and smoother filling for your pancakes.
2. Add a Touch of Coconut Milk
To enhance the tropical flavors, add a splash of coconut milk to the mango filling. The coconut milk will give it a richer, creamier consistency while adding a subtle coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with the mango.
3. Create a Light, Fluffy Crepe
To make the crepes even lighter and fluffier, you can separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form before gently folding them into the batter. This will add extra airiness to the pancakes and improve their texture.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
1. Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Hong Kong-style mango pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The pancakes will still be delicious, though the crepes may lose some of their softness.
2. Freezing
You can also freeze the assembled pancakes, but it’s best to freeze them before adding the mango filling. Place the pancakes on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and fill with the mango puree.
3. Making Pancakes Ahead of Time
You can prepare the crepes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them gently on a pan or in the microwave before adding the mango filling and serving.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
If you need to adapt the Hong Kong-style mango pancake recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some substitutions:
1. Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use rice flour for a more traditional crepe texture. Be sure to check that the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
2. Vegan Version
To make the recipe vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and use a plant-based egg replacement for the crepes. Make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
3. Low-Sugar Version
For a low-sugar version, you can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener. For the mango filling, reduce the sugar to a minimal amount, as mangoes are naturally sweet.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I make the crepes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crepes a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
2. Can I use frozen mangoes?
While fresh mangoes work best for this recipe, you can use frozen mangoes if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before blending.
3. How do I know when the crepes are done?
The crepes should be golden brown and firm to the touch but still soft. If they begin to crisp up too much, you may be cooking them at too high of a heat.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Hong Kong-style mango pancakes are a sweet, tropical treat that’s perfect for special occasions or a delicious dessert after a meal. The combination of light, soft crepes with the creamy, refreshing mango filling makes for a unique dessert that will impress anyone who tries it. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of practice, you can bring the taste of Hong Kong right into your own kitchen. Enjoy them fresh, chilled, or as part of a larger dim sum feast!