Western Hunan Oil Pancakes

Western Hunan Oil Pancakes

　　Oil pancakes: Made by soaking soybeans and sticky rice, grinding them into a batter, and ladling the batter into musical note-shaped iron scoops or ladles. The batter is often filled with pickled vegetables, chili peppers, dried tofu, or minced meat, though some are left unfilled. They are then deep-fried in boiling oil until golden and cooked through, filling the air with the aroma of oil and beans. Crispy and delicious, they suit all ages and are commonly enjoyed with alcohol at markets or boiled in soup. At every market fair in the county, vendors can be seen frying and selling them on the spot. During the Lunar New Year, nearly every household makes them.