At the table
Break the fritter open and let the hot center cool before eating.
Contains wheat. Egg or shrimp may be present; check the filling and frying fat before assuming it is vegetarian or vegan.
For children who can manage a crisp crust, offer cooled, small pieces of the soft-filled fritter; check wheat and any egg or shrimp first.
Recipes vary. Ask the restaurant about ingredients and serving before you order.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Batter and seasonings vary. Rice flour or wheat starch may supplement wheat flour, and some versions include egg or shrimp.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory radish with scallion and herb aromas.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Crisp crust around a soft, moist center.
- How it’s made
- Layer batter and shredded radish filling in a heated mold, lower it into oil, release the shaped fritter and fry until golden.
Batter and seasonings vary. Rice flour or wheat starch may supplement wheat flour, and some versions include egg or shrimp.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Shanghai.
About this regional connection
Shanghai: Associated with Shanghai street breakfast and snacks.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有油墩子吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
An alleyway snack from the frying mold
You dunzi belongs to Shanghai’s street-snack memories, including the after-school stop at an alleyway stall. Its metal mold holds separate layers of batter and radish until the fritter sets. The crisp shell and moist filling are best enjoyed soon after frying, once the center has cooled enough to eat.