You Tiao (Chinese Churros)

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, milk, and 2 tbsp oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.

2. 2

   Knead and Rest: Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth. It will be slightly sticky. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to relax the gluten.

3. 3

   Shape: Let the dough come to room temperature for 1 hour. On an oiled surface, gently stretch and roll the dough into a long rectangle about 1/4-inch thick and 3 inches wide. Do not overwork the dough.

4. 4

   Cut and Stack: Cut the rectangle into 1-inch wide strips. Take one strip, place it directly on top of another strip, and press down the center lengthwise with a chopstick to fuse the two layers together.

5. 5

   Stretch and Fry: Heat 2 inches of oil in a wide pot or wok to 400°F (200°C). Grab the ends of a stacked dough strip, stretch it gently to double its length, and carefully drop it into the hot oil.

6. 6

   Puff and Serve: Using long chopsticks, roll the dough continuously in the oil for 1-2 minutes. It will puff up dramatically. Fry until deeply golden and crispy on all sides. Drain on a wire rack and serve immediately with warm congee or soy milk.