What To Serve With Scallion Pancakes (33+ Perfect Pairings!)

Scallion pancakes, a much loved street food originating from China, have won hearts around the world with their crispy texture and fragrant, oniony flavour.

Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a casual get-together or serving them as a side dish at a dinner party, you might be wondering what to pair with these savoury treats to round out the meal.

Just need to grab some quick ideas and run? 

Not a problem! 

Some of the best choices for what to serve with scallion pancakes include classic dipping sauces like soy sauce and spicy mayo.

For a more substantial bite, add a protein like shredded chicken, crispy pork belly, and prawns sautéed in garlic and ginger. 

Some other great choices include spicy slaw, pickled veggies, egg fried rice, and hot and sour soup. 

Want more ideas?

Let’s look at some further inspiration… 

Classic Dipping Sauces

Scallion pancakes are well complemented by a range of classic dipping sauces.

Each of these enhances the flavour in a unique way.

Soy Sauce Blends

For a simple yet rich dipping experience, soy sauce blends are your go-to option.

Combine soy sauce with a touch of sesame oil, and perhaps a sprinkle of finely chopped scallions or grated ginger.

This blend should feature an even balance between salty and aromatic elements.

Vinegar-Based Dips

Vinegar-based dips offer a tangy zest, cutting through the richness of the pancakes.

A popular choice is a dip made from Chinkiang vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar to add a sweet undertone.

Spicy Mayo Mixtures

If you enjoy a creamy texture with a kick, spicy mayo mixtures will not disappoint.

Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or another hot sauce to your desired heat level, and a squeeze of lime for some zesty liveliness.

Protein Pairings

Enhance your scallion pancakes with these simple yet delightful protein options that complement the flavours perfectly.

Shredded Chicken Accompaniment

Combine your scallion pancakes with shredded chicken for a hearty and satisfying pairing.

You can quickly toss chicken breast or thigh meat in soy sauce and five-spice powder to elevate the taste.

Crispy Pork Belly

For a richer taste, crispy pork belly makes an exquisite match with scallion pancakes.

The crunch and succulence of the pork add a textural contrast.

Remember to score the pork skin and rub with sea salt to achieve the perfect crackle.

Prawn Infusions

Prawns offer a delicate, sweet flavour that pairs wonderfully with the mild onion taste of scallion pancakes.

Ensure your prawns are deveined and sauté with a hint of garlic and ginger for a fragrant touch.

(If you love Chinese cuisine, be sure to also check out sides for hot and sour soup!) 

Vegetable Sides

Pair your scallion pancakes with these flavourful vegetable sides for a balanced and delightful meal experience.

Stir-Fried Greens

You’ll love the simplicity of quick stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach.

Use garlic and ginger for a fragrant base.

Add a splash of soy sauce for depth and a hint of sesame oil before serving for that authentic touch.

Pickled Vegetable Medley

A tangy counterpart, a pickled vegetable medley can include carrots, cabbage, and cucumbers.

Here’s how you can prepare it:

1. Slice the vegetables thinly.
2. Mix with a brine of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
3. Let them marinate for at least one hour.

Spicy Slaw Options

For a fresh crunch, consider a spicy slaw. Cabbage, carrots, and red bell peppers work well.

• Dress it up: Mix a dressing of mayonnaise, hot sauce, a pinch of sugar, and lime juice.
• Toss lightly: Combine with your shredded vegetables to coat them evenly.

Rice and Grain Selections

Pairing the perfect rice or grain dish with your scallion pancakes adds balance and depth to your meal.

Each selection complements the rich, oniony flavour of the pancakes.

Fried Rice Symphony

Classic Egg Fried Rice: A staple in Asian cuisine, this offers a simple yet delightful combination with your scallion pancakes.

• Ingredients: Jasmine rice, eggs, peas, spring onions
• Seasoning: Soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper

Vegetable Fried Rice: A colourful medley that introduces vibrant veggies to the mix.

• Ingredients: Basmati rice, mixed bell peppers, finely chopped carrots, sweetcorn
• Seasoning: Oyster sauce (optional for vegetarians), a touch of five-spice powder

Quinoa Pilaf Varieties

Lemon Herb Quinoa: Citrus notes add a refreshing twist and cut through the pancake’s oiliness.

• Ingredients: Quinoa, lemon zest, chopped parsley, toasted pine nuts
• Seasoning: Lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper

Spiced Quinoa Pilaf: Warm spices bring out a comforting earthiness.

• Ingredients: Quinoa, diced onions, raisins, slivered almonds
• Seasoning: Cumin, coriander, a pinch of cinnamon

Barley and Farro Offerings

Barley Risotto: Creamy and full of flavour, it’s a heartier option.

• Ingredients: Pearl barley, vegetable stock, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic
• Seasoning: Thyme, a drizzle of truffle oil

Farro with Roasted Vegetables: A rustic and wholesome choice.

• Ingredients: Farro, assorted root vegetables, red onions, feta cheese
• Seasoning: Rosemary, balsamic vinegar reduction

Soup Complements

Pairing your scallion pancakes with the right soup can elevate your meal to new heights of flavour.

Choose a soup that complements the texture and taste of the pancakes.

Hearty Wonton Soup

The plump parcels of wonton soup are an excellent choice for what to serve with scallion pancakes. 

The soup’s robust flavour, often enhanced by ingredients such as pork, prawns, and a variety of vegetables, creates a satisfying balance.

• Key Ingredients: Pork, prawns, bok choy, spring onions
• Broth: A rich chicken or pork stock, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil

Hot and Sour Soup

Embrace the bold, sharp notes of hot and sour soup to contrast with the mild, crisp scallion pancakes.

This soup’s tanginess, combined with its velvety texture, is sure to tantalise your taste buds.

• Key Components: Wood ear mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, egg ribbons
• Flavour Profile: A vinegary punch and a hint of spice from white pepper or chilli oil

Miso Broth Choices

The mellow, umami-packed miso broth offers a gentle contrast to the scallion pancakes.

You can choose from a variety of ingredients to suit your preference.

• Miso Types: White (shiro) for sweetness, red (aka) for depth, or a blend for complexity
• Recommended Additions: Seaweed, tofu cubes, and finely sliced spring onions

Want to explore this option further? Check out what to serve with miso soup. 

Noodle Accompaniments

Pairing scallion pancakes with noodles can balance textures and flavours.

Choose from chilled noodle salads, stir-fried options, or comforting broth noodles to complement the savoury pancakes.

Chilled Noodle Salads

Chilled noodle salads offer a refreshing contrast to the warm scallion pancakes. You might enjoy:

• Soba Noodle Salad: Toss cooked soba noodles with a tangy dressing of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of rice vinegar. Add thinly sliced cucumber and carrots for crunch.
• Glass Noodle Salad: Combine cooked glass noodles with mixed peppers, coriander, and a lime chilli dressing for a light, yet zesty side.

Stir-Fried Noodles

Stir-fried noodles bring warmth and a heartier element. Your choices include:

• Beef Chow Fun: Thick rice noodles fried with slices of marinated beef, beansprouts, and spring onions in oyster sauce.
• Vegetable Lo Mein: A mix of egg noodles fried with a selection of vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and bok choy in a soy-based sauce.

Broth Noodles

Broth noodles provide a comforting, soupy choice for what to serve with scallion pancakes.

Try either:

• Chicken Noodle Soup: A clear broth with tender chicken pieces, noodles, and greens, seasoned with ginger and garlic.
• Miso Ramen: Rich miso broth with ramen noodles, topped with sweetcorn, wakame seaweed, and soft-boiled egg.

Regional Favourites

When crafting the perfect meal, complementing your scallion pancakes with regional favourites will delight your palate with a symphony of flavours and textures.

Korean Kimchi

You’ll find that the spicy and fermented flavors of Korean kimchi add a robust kick to the soft and subtly savoury notes of scallion pancakes.

A classic version to try would be Baechu-kimchi, made with Napa cabbage.

Check out how to improve store bought kimchi if you’re looking for some quick and easy choices! 

Japanese Tempura

Pair your pancakes with Japanese tempura for a delightful contrast.

You can enjoy a selection of vegetables or seafood like prawns, coated in a light, crispy batter.

Dipping sauce, often a combination of soy sauce, mirin, and a dash of sugar, enhances this experience.

Thai Papaya Salad

A refreshing complement is the Thai papaya salad, commonly known as Som Tam.

This dish combines the sweetness of papaya with the heat of chillies and the tang of lime juice.

An essential ingredient is fish sauce, which adds depth to the salad’s umami flavour.

Dumpling Delights

Pairing scallion pancakes with dumplings creates a medley of textures and flavours for you to savour.

Consider these dumpling types to complement your meal.

Potstickers

Potstickers are pleated dumplings with a crispy bottom and a tender top.

For a satisfying contrast to the scallion pancakes:

• Fillings: Try pork and cabbage or shrimp and chives.
• Dipping Sauce: Soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar and chilli oil.

Gyoza Variants

Gyoza, the Japanese version of potstickers, are known for their thin wrappers and rich fillings, and are another delicious option for what to serve with scallion pancakes.

They come in various options that can further enhance your dining experience:

• Fillings: Options include chicken and vegetable or beef and onion.
• Cooking Style: Either pan-fried to a golden brown or steamed for a softer bite.

Shumai Assortment

Shumai dumplings, with their open tops revealing delicious fillings, are a delightful bite-sized treat.

• Fillings: Common choices are minced pork, shrimp, or a combination.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of chilli sauce or mustard for extra zing.

Sweet Contrasts

Pairing sweet treats with scallion pancakes balances the savoury flavour with a delightful sugary note.

Mango Pudding

Mango pudding is a refreshing dessert with a creamy texture and tropical sweetness.

It’s a splendid choice if you’re after a light and fruity complement to your scallion pancakes.

Serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves for an extra zing.

Red Bean Ice Cream

Red Bean Ice Cream introduces a unique sweet and earthy flavour that goes surprisingly well with the oniony layers of scallion pancakes.

A scoop or two placed alongside your pancakes will add a creamy, cooling effect to your palate.

Fruit Platters

A fruit platter offers a colourful variety to your meal, including slices of kiwi, dragon fruit, and lychee.

Not only does it provide a spectrum of sweet flavours, but it also adds a visually appealing element to your dining experience.

Beverage Ideas

When pairing drinks with scallion pancakes, you ought to consider beverages that complement the dish’s savoury flavours without overpowering them.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas offer a subtle warmth and can cleanse your palate between bites.

• Chamomile Tea: Soothing and light, its floral notes are a delightful match.
• Mint Tea: The freshness of mint tea can enhance the pancakes’ flavour.

Rice Wines

Rice wines are traditional and pair splendidly with Chinese cuisine.

• Shaoxing Wine: A popular choice with a slightly nutty taste.
• Sake: A smooth and often slightly sweet rice wine, served chilled.

Light Beers

A light beer can refresh your palate while enjoying the pancakes.

• Lager: Its crispness balances the oiliness of the pancakes.
• Wheat Beer: The citrus notes can complement the green onion flavour nicely.

What’s your favourite choice for what to serve with scallion pancakes? 

Leave a comment below and share your best pairings! 

If you love Asian food, you might also enjoy what to serve with wonton soup.