Youtiao

Youtiao, often referred to as the Chinese cruller or fried breadstick, is a beloved breakfast staple in China and throughout East and Southeast Asia. This deep-fried strip of dough is typically enjoyed alongside rice congee, soy milk, or sweetened milk. Depending on the region, youtiao goes by various names, including Chinese fried churro, Chinese oil stick, and Chinese doughnut.

There are numerous ways to savor youtiao. It can be tucked inside other types of bread, such as shaobing, to create a delectable sandwich. Another popular variant involves wrapping youtiao in a rice noodle roll, known as zhaliang. It can also be served with soups, soymilk, or soy sauce. In Shanghai cuisine, youtiao is an essential ingredient in dishes like Cifan Tuan. For those with a sweet tooth, there's Tanggao, a shorter fried treat that resembles youtiao.

Youtiao's popularity extends beyond China, with each country putting its unique spin on this versatile snack. In Cambodia, it’s called chhakhvay and is commonly paired with rice congee. In Malaysia and Singapore, known as you char kway, it’s often served with bak kut teh or enjoyed as a snack with various fillings. In Thailand, it goes by the name pathongko and is typically eaten with soy milk or porridge.

The different names and regional folklore surrounding youtiao add to its charm. In northern China, it's often called guozi, while in Standard Mandarin, it is referred to as youtiao. In Cambodia, it's known as cha kway, and in Indonesia, it’s called cakwe. The Philippines has its own versions named bicho/bicho-bicho or shakoy. Each country has its unique way of enjoying this popular fried dough, making youtiao a versatile and cherished dish across Asia.