Guo Kui: 6 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Crispy Snack

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Guo Kui is a crispy stuffed flatbread with a rich taste spiced with Sichuan peppercorn. This layered bread with pork is famous in Chengdu and offers a delightful combination of textures. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Chinese street food, this dish is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Guo Kui

This Guo Kui recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a quick and easy option for snacks. Here are some reasons to love it:

Rich flavors with the perfect spice
Easy to prepare at home
Versatile fillings for everyone
Perfect for meal prep or a quick snack
Great for gatherings and parties
Authentic Chengdu street food experience

With its crispy exterior and savory pork filling, you’ll understand why Guo Kui is so popular! The cultural significance of this snack is also noteworthy, as it represents traditional Chinese cuisine.

Ingredients for Guo Kui

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons softened butter (or shortening)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground Sichuan peppercorn
4 oz pork, finely ground
1 teaspoon light soy sauce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn, freshly ground
1 green onion, white part only, finely chopped
2 tablespoons warm water (110°F)
1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
Pinch sugar
200 g (1 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup boiling water
1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus extra for shaping)
3 tablespoons white sesame seeds (in a shallow bowl for dipping)

How to Make Guo Kui Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mix the butter (or shortening), flour, salt, and pepper together until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine ground pork, light soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and ground Sichuan peppercorn. Beat until well incorporated. Add the chopped green onion whites and mix.
Step 3: Combine yeast and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl with 2 tablespoons warm water. Stir and let activate for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: For mixer: Combine flour and salt in a stand mixer. Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup boiling water while stirring. Add dough hook and knead until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: For hands: Combine flour and salt in a medium bowl. Slowly drizzle in boiling water while stirring. Mix in yeast mixture until soft dough forms. Knead until smooth, about 5 minutes.
Step 6: The dough should be soft but hold its shape. Add more flour if too soft.
Step 7: Oil a bowl, add dough, cover, and let rest for 15 minutes.
Step 8: Briefly knead the dough, divide into 6 pieces, round each into a ball, oil, cover, and rest for 5 minutes.
Step 9: Roll each piece into a 3×10” oval. Spread 1 teaspoon of the butter flour paste across it, then roll it up and pinch ends to seal.
Step 10: Flatten rolled dough, spread 1 1/2 tablespoons of the ground pork mixture, roll up, seal, and press into a disc. Repeat.
Step 11: Dip discs in sesame seeds, flatten, and roll into a 5” disc. Keep covered.
Step 12: Preheat oven to 325°F (160ºC) and a skillet over medium heat with 1/4 cup of oil. Line a baking tray with parchment.
Step 13: Add Guo Kui to the skillet, fry for about 30 seconds, flip until crispy and browned. Remove and place on the baking tray.
Step 14: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until crispy and browned. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Guo Kui

Keep these in mind:

Keep dough covered to prevent drying out.
Adjust frying oil as necessary.
For extra crispiness, fry a little longer.
Experiment with different fillings for variety.

Best Ways to Serve Guo Kui

Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with a dipping sauce for a savory kick.
Serve with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy as a hearty snack on its own.

How to Store and Reheat Guo Kui

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep it crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guo Kui

What’s the secret to perfect Guo Kui?

The secret lies in the dough. Ensure it’s soft yet holds its shape to achieve the ideal crispy texture while cooking.

Can I make Guo Kui ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and cook.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Guo Kui?

Make sure not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough texture. Additionally, don’t skip the resting time, as it is crucial for the dough to relax.

Variations of Guo Kui You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Try using beef or chicken instead of pork for a different flavor.
Add veggies like mushrooms or peppers to the filling for a vegetarian option.
Experiment with different spices to create unique flavor profiles.

Guo Kui: 6 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Crispy Snack - Guo Kui - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Grilled Cheese Patty Melts or Baked Pears with Feta and Honey.

Guo Kui: 6 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Crispy Snack - Guo Kui - additional detail

For more information on Sichuan cuisine, visit China Highlights.

To learn about other delicious snacks, explore our Crispy Moo Dad Deaw Thai Pork Snack and Pumpkin Chicken Chili Cottage Recipe.