Description
Kimchijeon, or Korean kimchi pancake, is a savory and crispy appetizer made from well-fermented kimchi mixed with flour and other simple ingredients. This quick and easy recipe results in thin, golden pancakes with a tangy, spicy flavor, perfect for serving warm with a flavorful soy-based dipping sauce. Ideal as a snack or appetizer, kimchijeon showcases the bold flavors of Korean cuisine in a delightful, crispy form.
Ingredients
Scale
Kimchi Pancake Batter
- 1 cup well-fermented kimchi (chopped)
- 1/4 cup kimchi juice
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rice flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Frying
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Dipping Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Optional pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, all-purpose flour, rice flour (if using), cold water, egg, sliced green onions, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a thick, cohesive batter.
- Heat the Pan: Place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the First Pancake: Pour half of the prepared batter into the skillet and spread it evenly into a thin, circular shape. Let it cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and Cook the Other Side: Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the other side is also golden and crispy.
- Repeat with Remaining Batter: Add more oil to the pan as needed, then pour in the remaining batter and repeat the cooking process for the second pancake. Once cooked, transfer both pancakes to a plate.
- Serve: Serve the kimchijeon warm alongside the dipping sauce composed of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes for a savory kick.
Notes
- For extra spice, incorporate gochujang or finely chopped chili peppers into the batter.
- For a seafood variation called haemul kimchijeon, add chopped shrimp or squid to the batter.
- Use vegetarian kimchi to make this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Make sure the kimchi used is well-fermented for optimal flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
