In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, egg, and water. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until almost smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour.

Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1 cm thick. Brush with vegetable oil and rest for another 2 hours.

Cut the dough into strips about 3cm wide and set aside on a floured surface.

Use a water-dipped chopstick to mark a line down the center of each strip, then layer them and adhere together.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan to 180-190°C (400°F). Gently fry the strips for 1 minute until golden brown.

Transfer fried youtiao to a rack lined with paper towels. Serve warm with creamy soy milk or congee.