Craving something uniquely delicious and easy to whip up? Try making the Korean Pancake, also known as Pajeon. This delectable dish combines simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and green onions to create a savory pancake that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for any meal of the day, Pajeon can be served as a snack, appetizer, or a light entree. Dive into the flavors of Korea with this straightforward and mouthwatering recipe!
Tips to make the Korean Pancake (Pajeon) recipe:
1. Use Cold Water or Ice Water: To ensure the pancake batter remains light and crispy, mix the batter with cold water or ice water. This little trick prevents the gluten in the flour from developing too much, leading to a better texture once cooked.
2. Add Vegetables of Your Choice: While green onions are the classic ingredient for Pajeon, don’t be afraid to add other vegetables. Thin slices of carrot, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions and can customize the pancake to your liking.
3. Use a Non-Stick Pan: For the best results, cook your Pajeon in a good quality non-stick pan. This will help avoid sticking and ensure that your pancake gets evenly browned without the need for excessive oil.
4. Let the Batter Rest: Allowing your pancake batter to rest for about 10 minutes before cooking can help in creating a smoother and more cohesive texture. It gives time for the flour to fully hydrate and results in a better pancake.
5. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Pajeon is often enjoyed with a tangy and slightly spicy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Don’t forget to whisk up this simple sauce to enhance the flavors of your Korean pancake.
How to Make Korean Pancake (Pajeon) Recipe?
Korean Pancake (Pajeon) Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Non-stick skillet Or frying pan, for cooking the pancake
- 1 Mixing Bowl For preparing the batter
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch For crispiness
- 1 1/2 cups Cold water Ice water works best
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Scallions Cut into 2-inch lengths
- 1/2 cup Sliced onions Optional
- 1/2 cup Seafood mix Optional, such as shrimp or squid
- 1/4 cup Carrots Thinly sliced, optional
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cold water, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Let the batter sit for about 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little cooking oil.
- Spread a layer of the batter on the skillet, then top with an even layer of scallions and optionally, onions, seafood mix, and carrots.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until the edges begin to crisp up.
- Flip the pancake carefully and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining batter and filling.
- Cut the cooked pancakes into pieces and serve hot with a dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
In conclusion, making Korean Pancake (Pajeon) at home is a delightful and straightforward endeavor that brings a piece of Korean culinary culture right into your kitchen. This savory pancake, with its blend of crisp vegetables and optional seafood encased in a light, crispy batter, serves not just as a mouthwatering snack or side dish but also as a reflection of the simplicity and elegance of Korean cooking. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, Pajeon provides a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
Moreover, the process of preparing and cooking Pajeon encourages creativity and experimentation with ingredients, ensuring that each pancake is unique and personalized. From choosing your favorite vegetables to adding your preferred seafood, the possibilities are endless. It’s a culinary adventure that promises to indulge the senses and bring people together over the love of food. So, why not give it a try? Dive into the delightful world of Korean cuisine with this simple yet delicious Pajeon recipe and watch as it becomes a cherished dish in your cooking repertoire.
