Rice noodle rolls wrapped around crispy Chinese doughnuts create an irresistible contrast of textures—soft, chewy, and crispy all in one bite. This dish, commonly found in dim sum restaurants and street food stalls, delivers a satisfying combination of flavors, from the subtle sweetness of the rice rolls to the crunch of the fried dough and the savory depth of dipping sauces. A staple breakfast or snack in Cantonese cuisine, these rice noodle rolls are surprisingly simple to prepare at home. With a few key ingredients and minimal effort, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen and enjoy it fresh.
Ingredient Breakdown
The star of this dish is cheung fun, also known as rice noodle rolls. These delicate, thin sheets of steamed rice noodles have a smooth, slightly elastic texture. They can be store-bought from Asian grocery stores or made at home with rice flour, tapioca starch, and water. To prepare them for rolling, they need gentle warming—either microwaved under a damp paper towel or briefly steamed to regain their softness. The filling, youtiao (Chinese doughnut), is a deep-fried breadstick that provides a crisp contrast to the silky rice noodles. While fresh youtiao are best, they can also be reheated in the oven to restore their crunch. If unavailable, lightly toasted breadsticks or puff pastry strips can offer a similar effect. Sweet soy sauce, a slightly thickened, umami-rich blend of soy sauce and sugar, enhances the dish with a touch of sweetness. A homemade version can be made by simmering soy sauce with brown sugar and a splash of water. Hoisin sauce and sesame paste add richness and complexity—hoisin provides a deep, slightly smoky sweetness, while sesame paste introduces nuttiness. The garnish of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions contributes both flavor and visual appeal. For those who enjoy spice, a drizzle of chili oil can lend a warming heat that balances the dish’s sweetness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Warming the Doughnut
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Split the youtiao lengthwise, creating two thinner sticks. Arrange them on a baking tray and warm them for 3-4 minutes, just enough to crisp them up without browning further. This step ensures that the youtiao retains its signature crunch when wrapped inside the rice noodle rolls. Once heated, let them cool slightly before handling.
Softening the Rice Rolls
Rice noodle rolls can be delicate, so heating them properly is essential to maintain their elasticity. Place the sheets on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a slightly damp paper towel. Microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent overheating. The goal is to make them warm and pliable, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, steaming them for a few minutes can achieve the same result while preventing drying out.
Assembling the Rolls
Carefully unroll the softened rice noodle sheet, laying it flat on a clean surface. Place a warm youtiao stick along one edge and roll it up tightly, ensuring the doughnut remains securely wrapped inside. The snug fit is crucial to maintain structure and prevent unraveling. Repeat with the remaining rice noodle rolls and youtiao.
Cutting & Plating
Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into bite-sized segments. The cleaner the cut, the better the presentation. Arrange the pieces neatly on a serving plate, leaving space for garnishes and sauces.
Final Touches
Drizzle the sliced rolls with sweet soy sauce, letting it seep into the soft rice noodles. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately with hoisin sauce and sesame paste on the side for dipping. If you enjoy spice, a touch of chili oil can bring an added dimension of heat.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid Overheating the Rice Rolls:
Excessive heat can cause them to become too sticky or break apart. Use gentle, controlled heating methods.
Crispy vs. Soft Youtiao:
If you prefer extra crunch, toast the youtiao for a minute longer, but avoid over-toasting as it can become too hard to bite.
Balancing Flavors:
Adjust the level of soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame paste according to your taste. A balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors creates the best experience.
Storage & Reheating:
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, store the components separately and reheat the rice rolls carefully to avoid drying them out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best assembled just before serving, as the rice rolls can harden when stored. If necessary, keep ingredients separate and assemble just before eating.
Where can I find fresh rice noodle rolls?
Asian supermarkets often carry them in the refrigerated section. Homemade versions can also be made with rice flour batter and a steamer.
What can I use if I can’t find youtiao?
Alternatives include lightly toasted baguette slices, crispy puff pastry strips, or even churros for a fusion twist.
How do I prevent the rice rolls from tearing?
Handle them gently, and always warm them first to increase their flexibility. Avoid excessive moisture, which can weaken the structure.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these rice noodle rolls with a warm cup of soy milk or Hong Kong-style milk tea for a traditional Cantonese breakfast. For extra dipping options, peanut sauce or chili garlic sauce complements the dish beautifully. If serving as part of a larger meal, pair with congee, dumplings, or turnip cake for a well-rounded spread.
Customization Ideas
For an alternative filling, swap youtiao for shrimp, barbecued pork, or crispy tofu for a vegetarian version. Those seeking a gluten-free option can replace youtiao with crispy rice paper rolls or baked rice crackers. To add another layer of crunch, sprinkle crushed peanuts or fried shallots on top.
Rice noodle rolls with Chinese doughnuts offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a quick assembly process, this dish can be recreated at home with ease. Whether you enjoy it as a nostalgic breakfast or a comforting snack, the combination of silky rice noodles and crispy youtiao is sure to satisfy. Serve it fresh, experiment with different toppings, and enjoy a taste of authentic Cantonese flavors from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
2-3 sheets or rolls of cheung fun (rice noodle rolls)
1 youtiao (Chinese doughnut)
Sweet soy sauce, for drizzling
Hoisin sauce, for dipping
Sesame paste, for dipping
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Sliced green onions, for garnish
Chili oil (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Split the Chinese doughnut in half lengthwise, creating two thinner sticks. Place them on a baking tray and warm them in the oven for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to heat them through without allowing them to brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
While the doughnuts are warming, prepare the rice noodle rolls. Place them on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a slightly damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, checking after each one to ensure they don’t overheat. Once they become soft, warm, and pliable—typically within 1-2 minutes—they’re ready to use.
Gently unroll a sheet of rice noodle and place a warm Chinese doughnut stick along one edge. Carefully roll it up, ensuring a snug wrap around the crispy doughnut. Repeat the process with the remaining rice noodle rolls and doughnut sticks.
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving plate and drizzle with sweet soy sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Serve immediately with hoisin sauce and sesame paste on the side for dipping. If desired, add a touch of chili oil for an extra kick of heat. Enjoy while fresh!
Rice Noodle Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 sheets or rolls of cheung fun rice noodle rolls
- 1 youtiao Chinese doughnut
- Sweet soy sauce for drizzling
- Hoisin sauce for dipping
- Sesame paste for dipping
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Chili oil optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Split the Chinese doughnut in half lengthwise, creating two thinner sticks. Place them on a baking tray and warm them in the oven for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to heat them through without allowing them to brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- While the doughnuts are warming, prepare the rice noodle rolls. Place them on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a slightly damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, checking after each one to ensure they don’t overheat. Once they become soft, warm, and pliable—typically within 1-2 minutes—they’re ready to use.
- Gently unroll a sheet of rice noodle and place a warm Chinese doughnut stick along one edge. Carefully roll it up, ensuring a snug wrap around the crispy doughnut. Repeat the process with the remaining rice noodle rolls and doughnut sticks.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving plate and drizzle with sweet soy sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately with hoisin sauce and sesame paste on the side for dipping. If desired, add a touch of chili oil for an extra kick of heat. Enjoy while fresh!
