What are "Chinese crullers" (you tiao), and how are they typically consumed?

Chinese crullers, known as “you tiao,” are deep-fried dough sticks that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are traditionally eaten as a breakfast item and are often served with soy milk or congee (rice porridge). You tiao are sometimes used as an ingredient in other dishes, such as in “youtiao with soy milk,” where they are dipped into a bowl of hot, savory soy milk. They can also be broken up and added to soups or served alongside other dishes.