Crispy Rice Paper Scallion Pancakes (Gluten-Free Vietnamese Snack)

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KloPoKitchen (@klopokitchen3445)

If you've ever stared at a pack of rice paper wondering what to do with it besides making spring rolls, you're in for a treat. Let us introduce you to the world of crispy rice paper pancakes — a quick, satisfying, and versatile dish that works for breakfast, lunch, snacks,...

Crispy Rice Paper Scallion Pancakes (Gluten-Free Vietnamese Snack) recipe
Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
10min
Total Time
20min

Ingredients

2 Servings
(1 serving = 1 pancake)

Pancakes

  • stalks green onions
    stalks green onions
    2
  • sesame oil
    sesame oil
    1tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1pinch
  • white pepper
    white pepper
    1pinch
  • 4 tsp five spice
    4 tsp five spice
    1
  • rice paper
    rice paper
    1piece
  • optional shredded cheese
    optional shredded cheese
    1

Sauce

  • gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
    gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
    2tbsp
  • black vinegar
    black vinegar
    1tsp
  • chili oil
    chili oil
    1tsp
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
    2 tsp sesame oil
    1
  • sugar
    sugar
    1pinch
  • to taste sesame seeds
    to taste sesame seeds
    1

How to make Crispy Rice Paper Scallion Pancakes (Gluten-Free Vietnamese Snack)

Prepare Pancakes

  1. Step 1

    Chop the green onions and transfer them to a bowl.

  2. Step 2

    Add sesame oil, salt, white pepper, and five spice to the bowl and mix well.

  3. Step 3

    Wet the rice paper and place the green onion mixture on it.

  4. Step 4

    Spread the mixture evenly and roll it up tightly.

  5. Step 5

    Roll the pancake into a snail shape.

  6. Step 6

    Heat a pan with oil and pan-fry the pancake until crispy on both sides.

Prepare Sauce

  1. Step 1

    Mix the sauce ingredients together in a bowl.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

20.8kcal (1.04%)

Protein

0.1g (0.3%)

Carbs

0.6g (0.2%)

Sugars

0.1g (0.2%)

Healthy Fat

1.9g

Unhealthy Fat

0.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Soak the rice paper just enough; over-soaking makes it limp and hard to work with.

  2. Keep your filling dry. Wet veggies = soggy results.

  3. Use a heavy-bottomed non-stick or cast iron pan.

  4. Medium heat is your best friend. Too much heat can cause the surface to char before the middle is properly done.

  5. Press down lightly with a spatula to make contact with the pan. This encourages that golden crust, similar to crispy vegetable recipes you've seen online.

FAQS

  1. Can I fry rice paper?

    Absolutely! Lightly frying rice paper turns it into a crisp, golden shell that adds serious texture to your dish. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy rice paper pancakes if you like a crunchy bite. Just be sure to use a small amount of oil — a thin layer is enough to get that restaurant-quality crisp without deep-frying.

  2. Are these pancakes gluten-free?

    Yes — most of the time. Rice paper is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding wheat.Make sure the sauces and added ingredients you use are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for sensitive diets. Make sure any soy sauce, hoisin, or dipping sauces you use are labeled gluten-free to keep the entire rice paper pancake gluten-free.

  3. Can I bake instead of frying?

    You sure can. Baking your rice paper pancakes is a great way to cut down on oil without sacrificing too much crisp. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place your pancakes on a parchment-lined baking tray, and bake for about 10–12 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning. They won’t be as crispy as pan fried rice paper rolls, but the texture still holds up well — especially if you like a slightly chewier bite.

  4. What else can I prepare using rice paper?

    Rice paper is incredibly versatile. Beyond pancakes, you can use it to make wraps, veggie rolls, crispy snacks, dumpling skins, or even sweet treats. Want something fun? Try turning it into dessert rolls filled with banana, peanut butter, and chocolate, or use it as a thin crust for mini pizzas. If you're ever unsure of what to do next, just search for creative things to make with rice paper — the ideas are endless.

  5. How do I keep them from sticking?

    Stickiness usually happens if your pan isn’t hot enough or if you skip oil completely. To prevent this, cook your pancakes on a non-stick or well-oiled cast iron pan. You can also line your baking sheet with parchment paper if you’re baking instead of frying. A light brush of oil on the surface of the rice paper before cooking helps keep it smooth and easy to flip.

Conclusion

Delicious Dipping Sauces

No pancake is complete without a great dipping sauce. Pair your crispy rice paper pancakes with:

  1. A bold sesame soy dipping sauce — a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes.
  2. A creamy peanut dip for a nutty contrast.
  3. Sweet-chili lime sauce for something tangy and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Rice Paper Recipe

Rice paper pancakes aren’t just a clever kitchen hack — they’re a celebration of simplicity, culture, and creativity. They cater to nearly every diet, adapt to your pantry, and come together in under 15 minutes. Whether you're making a vegan vegetable pancake or experimenting with a fried rice pancake fusion, there's no wrong way to do it. So next time you find yourself wondering what to do with that lonely pack of rice paper, skip the rolls and go for the crunch. Try one version today — and next time, switch up the fillings, dipping sauces, or style. These crispy vegetable pancakes are going to be your new obsession.

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KloPoKitchen

(@klopokitchen3445)

Kitchen/cooking Self taught little chef 🧑‍🍳 Loves Food 🍱 (Girl) 👩 Kid content creator/editor...

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