| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 280 | 9g | 1g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 5g | 0.2g |
About Gluten-Free Youtiao
Our journey into the fusion of traditional Asian cuisine with modern dietary needs takes an interesting turn today with Gluten-Free Youtiao. This popular Chinese breadstick, known for its delightfully crisp outer layer that conceals a soft, airy interior, retains the same magical contrast in its gluten-free avatar. Packed with familiar yet specific ingredients, like gluten-free all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, and cornstarch, this bread challenges the notion that gluten-free means compromise.
This Asian culinary marvel is akin to beignets, a French doughnut sans the traditional sugar coating, and Spanish churros, minus the dusting of cinnamon and sugar. Surprisingly versatile, the Gluten-Free Youtiao is a fitting companion to any hearty fare, be it a steamy bowl of Congee or a savoury Pot of Chao Long.
The Intriguing Origins Of Youtiao
Youtiao has an intriguing backstory: It is often referred to as ‘deep-fried ghost’ and is linked to a political protest about a thousand years ago, in the Song Dynasty. The popular story suggests that it originated as a mock deep-fry of the wicked Qin Hui, who orchestrated the disloyalty controversy against the famous general, Yue Fei. Even today, the breadstill maintains its classic twin-stick shape, symbolizing the traitorous couple, Qin Hui and his wife.
Embracing Health with Gluten-Free Youtiao
Today, the same Youtiao has been reinvented into gluten-free form to cater to those with gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. Substitutes such as gluten-free all-purpose flour and xanthan gum ensure you still get to enjoy the classic taste of Youtiao without the worry of gluten. This comes as a boon to not only those who suffer from gluten intolerance but also to anyone striving for a healthier diet.
So why wait? Take the plunge into the deliciously golden world of Gluten-Free Youtiao – a small, crispy bite of this can whisk you away on an unforgettable Oriental gustatory journey.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Method
Step One
Preheat your deep-fryer or a large pot with vegetable oil to a temperature of 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Step Two
In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, cornstarch, xanthan gum, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the white sugar and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the eggs and mix until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step Four
Gradually stir in the 1/2 cup of warm water to the egg mixture. Then, slowly add the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, stirring constantly until a dough is formed.
Step Five
On a gluten-free floured surface, knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
Step Six
Roll out the dough into a rectangle that is about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into 1 inch wide strips.
Step Seven
Take two strips of dough and press them together at one end. Twist the strips together and then press the other ends together to hold the shape.
Step Eight
Fry the twisted dough in the preheated oil until they are golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step Nine
Remove the Youtiao with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
