In its simplest form, this South Korean pancake incorporates sliced kimchi, preferably ripe version, with a simple flour batter. The dish belongs to a wide group of jeon—savory Korean pancakes—and it is easily adapted with various ingredients such as chili paste (gochujang), ground meat, or other vegetables.
The pancakes are occasionally served with a dipping sauce on the side and may come sprinkled with sesame seeds. They are usually enjoyed as a quick, filling snack or an appetizer, but they can also be served as a main course or a side dish.
Korean Kimchi Pancake (김치전 – Kimchijeon)
Course: Appetizers, SidesCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes300
kcal20
minutesIn its simplest form, this South Korean pancake incorporates sliced kimchi, preferably ripe version, with a simple flour batter. The dish belongs to a wide group of jeon—savory Korean pancakes—and it is easily adapted with various ingredients such as chili paste (gochujang), ground meat, or other vegetables.
Ingredients
½ pound well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi, chopped into small pieces, plus 2 tablespoons of the brine
3 scallions, chopped
½ teaspoon sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup water
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
- Combine the kimchi, kimchi brine, scallions, sugar, flour, and water in a medium bowl and mix well with a spoon.
- Heat a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. (If you don’t have a 12-inch skillet, use a smaller skillet to make 2 pancakes.)
- Add 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Pour the batter into the pan and spread it with the back of a spoon or a spatula to make a large circle.
- Cook until the bottom is golden brown and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes.
- Carefully turn the pancake over. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons oil around the edges of the skillet, then lift the pancake with a thin spatula to allow the oil to run underneath and tilt the pan to spread it evenly.
- Cook until the bottom of the pancake is light golden brown and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes.
- Flip it one more time and cook for another minute.
- Slide onto a large serving platter and serve immediately.
