### Instructions:
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, stir together the warm water and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. **Form the Dough:** Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
4. **Knead Briefly:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly for 2-3 minutes, just until it comes together and is smooth. Do not overknead.
5. **Rest the Dough:** Lightly grease the bowl you used earlier, place the dough back in, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. Overnight resting will result in a more tender and flavorful Youtiao.
6. **Prepare for Frying:** When ready to fry, gently transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Do NOT punch down the dough.
7. **Shape the Dough:** Gently stretch the dough into a long rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick and 4-5 inches wide.
8. **Cut into Strips:** Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough rectangle into 1-inch wide strips.
9. **Pair and Press:** Take two strips and stack them on top of each other. Using a chopstick or the dull side of a knife, gently press down in the center of the stacked strips, creating an indentation. This will help them puff up and open during frying.
10. **Heat the Oil:** In a deep pot or wok, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can test the oil by dropping a tiny piece of dough in; it should sizzle and float to the surface immediately.
11. **Fry the Youtiao:** Carefully pick up a paired dough strip, gently stretch it a little longer, and carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry 2-3 at a time, depending on the size of your pot, to avoid overcrowding.
12. **Flip and Cook:** Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up. Use tongs or chopsticks to flip them.
13. **Drain:** Once golden, remove the Youtiao from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
14. **Serve Immediately:** Serve your homemade Chinese Fried Breadsticks hot and enjoy!
### Short Tips:
* **Don’t over-knead the dough:** Over-kneading can result in tough Youtiao. A brief knead is all you need.
* **Resting is key:** The longer the dough rests, especially overnight, the more tender and flavorful your Youtiao will be.
* **Maintain oil temperature:** Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial for proper puffing and even cooking.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pot:** Frying in small batches ensures optimal frying and prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much.
* **Serve immediately:** Youtiao are best enjoyed fresh and hot!
