Korean kimchi pancakes: A vegetarian recipe guide
Korean kimchi pancakes, or kimchijeon, are a staple in Korean cuisine, known for their savory and slightly spicy flavor. Originating from Korea and made with simple ingredients including kimchi, these pancakes have been enjoyed for centuries as snacks or side dishes. This guide is perfect for vegetarians eager to explore traditional Korean flavors at home. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To make vegetarian, eggless Korean kimchi pancakes, collect one cup all-purpose flour, half a cup water, one cup vegan chopped kimchi, two tablespoons kimchi juice for flavor, one tablespoon soy sauce for seasoning, two sliced green onions for freshness, half a teaspoon sugar to balance acidity, and vegetable oil for frying. These components blend to create the ideal savory flavor and texture profile.
Prepare the batter
In a large bowl, mix one cup of all-purpose flour with half a cup of water until smooth. Then, stir in two tablespoons of kimchi juice and one tablespoon of soy sauce to flavor the batter. Adjust the consistency with more water if it's too thick, aiming for a texture similar to Western breakfast pancake batter.
Add flavorful ingredients
To the batter, add one cup of chopped kimchi for that signature tangy taste along with half a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the acidity from the kimchi. Mix in two sliced green onions for an added layer of flavor and freshness. Stir everything together until well combined. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Cook your pancakes
Heat some vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, pour in enough batter to form pancakes about four inches in diameter. Cook each pancake for about three to four minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy around the edges. Ensure they are cooked through before flipping them carefully.
Serve warm
Once cooked, transfer your Korean kimchi pancakes to a plate. They are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature. Pair them with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick. This recipe allows you to enjoy traditional Korean flavors at home, perfect for expanding culinary horizons without meat or eggs.
