Kimchi Pancake (Kimchi Jeon 김치전)

*Image by Maangchi: checkout her amazing Kimchi pancake recipe from https://www.maangchi.com/recipe/grandma-kimchijeon

Kimchi Pancakes Recipe (김치전)

Ingredients

• 1 cup of well-fermented kimchi, chopped

• 1/2 cup of kimchi juice (optional, for extra flavour)

• 1/2 cup of plain flour

• 1/4 cup of cornflour or potato starch (makes it crispier)

• 1/2 cup of water (adjust as needed)

• 1 spring onion, finely chopped

• 1 egg (optional, for richness)

• 1 teaspoon of sugar

• A pinch of salt (adjust depending on the saltiness of the kimchi)

• 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes, optional)

• Vegetable oil for frying

Dipping Sauce

• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar or malt vinegar

• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon of sugar

• A sprinkle of sesame seeds

• Finely chopped spring onions or chilli (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Pancake Batter

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, cornflour, sugar, salt, and gochugaru.

   • Add the chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, and water, mixing until it forms a smooth batter.

   • Stir in the egg (if using) and spring onions. The consistency should be like a thick pancake batter—adjust with a bit more water if it’s too stiff.

2. Fry the Pancakes

   • Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.

   • Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, spreading it out evenly into a thin round.

   • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the edges are crispy and the pancake is golden brown.

   • Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.

3. Make the Dipping Sauce

   • In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and sesame seeds. Add chopped spring onions or chilli if you fancy.

4. Serve

   • Slice the pancakes into wedges and serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tips

• Use well-aged kimchi for the best flavour—it adds a lovely tang to the pancakes.

• For extra crunch, add a handful of finely chopped onions or julienned carrots to the batter.

• These are great as a starter, a snack, or a light meal. Pair with a cold pint or a cup of hot tea—it’s comfort food at its best!

Enjoy your Kimchi Jeon! 맛있게 드세요! 🍽️