Wulian Pancakes

Wulian Pancakes

　　Wulian Pancakes are a specialty of Wulian County in Rizhao City, Shandong Province. Made from wheat flour, sweet potato flour, millet flour, and cornmeal, the batter is blended into a thick paste and cooked on a hot griddle. The resulting pancakes are as thin as paper, with a light yellow hue, delicate texture, sweet flavor, and soft, pleasant mouthfeel.

　　Wulian County, situated in southeastern Shandong, is characterized by its mountainous terrain and abundant water bodies, earning it the nickname “Mountain City.” The locals are known for their simple, sincere folkways and vibrant culture, with pancakes and flour-based foods forming the staple of their diet.

　　Wulian Pancakes are made entirely by hand using pure grains, with no additives, sugar, or artificial flavorings. They retain only the natural, wholesome aroma and sweetness of the grains themselves.

　　Most Wulian Pancakes are made with a mix of corn and sweet potato, especially those made primarily with wheat, which come in a wide variety. There are also pure sweet potato versions, which have a sweet taste and are especially common in southern towns such as those along the streets. People in the western and central parts prefer pure corn or a blend of corn and sweet potato. These pancakes are filling and highly nutritious, even believed to be beneficial for treating myopia. Paired with millet rice, stir-fried tofu with scallions, or a sweet sauce, they make for a delicious breakfast.

　　How to eat Wulian Pancakes: Typically, they are wrapped around various fillings such as tofu, shredded kelp, shredded meat (especially the braised shredded pork from Bianjia in our area—absolutely perfect), youtiao (Chinese fried dough sticks), dried small shrimps (especially when fried in oil for an extra fragrant kick), Chinese toon sprouts (stir-fried with eggs, absolutely delicious), chive and dried shrimp, garlic sprouts, and all sorts of other dishes. Pretty much anything you can think of can be wrapped inside. The most classic and common way to enjoy them is with scallions—the classic “pancake rolled with green onion.” Take a large piece of pancake, fold it a few times, add some scallions, spread on some spicy doubanjiang (broad bean paste) or wheat flour paste, and enjoy the fresh, juicy, and intensely flavorful bite.