Scallion Bread: A Savory, Fluffy Delight
Scallion bread is a savory, soft, and fragrant bread that features a filling of fresh scallions and a touch of oil, giving it a flavorful twist. Commonly found in Chinese and Taiwanese bakeries, this bread is a popular snack or side dish that pairs perfectly with soups or can be enjoyed on its own. The layers of dough and green onions create a deliciously chewy texture with a burst of savory flavor in every bite. If you enjoy savory bread, you may also like this guide to other Asian breads or explore the art of making perfect bread.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making scallion bread from scratch, including the basic recipe, advanced techniques, storage tips, and dietary adaptations.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Making scallion bread at home is relatively simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s the basic recipe to help you create this delicious savory treat.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
The Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups scallions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
For the Egg Wash (optional):
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, and mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, heat the vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions, salt, and sugar, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the scallions become fragrant and slightly wilted. Set the mixture aside to cool.
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface of the dough with the scallion mixture, ensuring an even layer across the entire dough.
- Form the bread: Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 2-3 equal pieces, then roll each piece into a spiral shape, creating a swirl effect. Place the swirled dough onto a greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough with a damp towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using an egg wash, brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake the bread: Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and fully cooked. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and serve: Let the scallion bread cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Advanced Techniques for Perfect Scallion Bread
Here are some advanced tips to perfect your scallion bread and elevate its flavor and texture.
Using a Stand Mixer:
If you have a stand mixer, use it with the dough hook attachment to knead the dough. This can save you time and effort, especially if you’re making a larger batch. Knead the dough on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Adding More Layers:
For a more layered, flaky texture, after rolling the dough into a rectangle and adding the filling, fold the dough like a letter, then roll it out again. Repeat this process a few times to create multiple layers that will puff up during baking.
Experiment with Filling Flavors:
While scallions are the traditional filling, you can get creative by adding other ingredients, such as garlic, sesame oil, or grated cheese for a unique twist. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before baking gives the bread an extra crunch and flavor.
Steam for Extra Softness:
To make the bread extra soft, you can steam the bread for the first 5-10 minutes of baking before switching to the oven. This will result in a slightly moister and softer texture, similar to some Asian-style bread.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Scallion bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it can be stored for later consumption if needed.
Storage:
Allow the scallion bread to cool to room temperature before storing. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep the bread soft, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel before placing it in the container.
Freezing:
To freeze scallion bread, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. The bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
If you need to adapt the recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some substitutions you can try.
Gluten-Free:
To make gluten-free scallion bread, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add xanthan gum or another binding agent if your gluten-free flour blend does not already contain it.
Dairy-Free:
For a dairy-free version, simply use vegetable oil instead of butter, and ensure the filling contains no dairy (like using non-dairy margarine or oil).
Vegan:
To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based egg wash (such as almond milk mixed with a little cornstarch) or skip the egg wash altogether for a less shiny finish. Use dairy-free butter or oil for the filling.
FAQs About Scallion Bread
Can I make scallion bread without yeast?
While yeast is essential for the rise and texture of scallion bread, you can experiment with baking powder to create a non-yeast version. However, this will result in a denser texture.
Why does my scallion bread turn out dense?
If your bread is too dense, it could be due to under-proofing the dough or over-kneading it. Ensure that the dough rises sufficiently both during the first and second rises to achieve a light, airy texture.
Can I make scallion bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the bread in advance. Once the bread has cooled, store it in an airtight container. If you’re making it the day before, just reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its fresh texture.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Scallion bread is a delicious, savory treat that is perfect for any occasion. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the fragrant, savory scallion filling makes it an irresistible snack or accompaniment to any meal. With the simple recipe and some advanced techniques, you can create bakery-quality scallion bread right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of making this flavorful, comforting bread!