Print

Korean Pancakes (Pajeon) Recipe

4.8 from 149 reviews

Korean Pancakes, known as Pajeon, are a savory and crispy delight featuring a batter mixed with fresh green onions, carrots, and zucchini. These pan-fried pancakes are an easy-to-make appetizer or snack, perfect for any time of day. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Pajeon pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces and offers a flavorful taste of Korean cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

  • 1 bunch green onions (scallions), chopped
  • 1 small carrot, julienned
  • 1 small zucchini, julienned

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1 tablespoon per pancake)

Instructions

  1. Make the Batter: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, and egg. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, homogenous batter.
  2. Add Vegetables: Gently fold the chopped green onions, julienned carrots, and zucchini into the batter, ensuring all vegetables are well coated with the mixture.
  3. Season the Mixture: Add the salt and black pepper to the batter and stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  4. Heat Oil: Place a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add about a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Pour the Batter: Pour approximately ½ cup of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon to form a pancake shape about ¼ inch thick.
  6. Cook Until Golden: Let the pancake cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until the edges become golden and crispy. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Remove and Serve: Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil if desired. Repeat the process with the remaining batter until all pancakes are cooked. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the vegetables by adding mushrooms, seafood, or kimchi for traditional variations.
  • Serve the pancakes with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce mixed with a little sesame oil and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and achieve a nicely crisped exterior.
  • Adjust the batter consistency by adding a little more water if too thick, or a little flour if too thin, for easier frying.

Keywords: Korean pancakes, Pajeon, savory pancakes, green onion pancakes, Korean appetizer, vegetarian Korean food, crispy pancakes