What Is Kimchi Pancake? – The Secret To Perfect Korean Pancakes

Kimchi pancake, known as kimchijeon in Korean, is a savory and crispy Korean dish that combines the spicy and tangy flavors of kimchi with the crispy texture of a pancake. Made with a batter of flour, water, and eggs, kimchi pancakes are typically filled with a generous helping of fermented kimchi, which gives them their distinctive red color and bold taste.

History of Kimchi Pancake

The origins of kimchi pancake can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), a period when kimchi became a staple food in Korean cuisine. During this time, kimchi pancakes were often served as a simple and convenient meal for farmers and laborers who worked in the fields. Over the centuries, kimchi pancakes have evolved into a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages in Korea and around the world.

Ingredients of Kimchi Pancake

The main ingredients of kimchi pancake are:

• Kimchi: The fermented cabbage or radish that gives the pancake its characteristic flavor.
• Flour: All-purpose flour or rice flour can be used.
• Water: The liquid component that binds the ingredients together.
• Eggs: Adds richness and helps to create a crispy texture.
• Green onions: Adds a fresh and aromatic flavor.
• Other optional ingredients: Garlic, ginger, or sesame seeds can be added for extra flavor.

How to Make Kimchi Pancake

Making kimchi pancakes is a relatively simple process:

1. Prepare the kimchi: Chop the kimchi into small pieces and drain off any excess liquid.
2. Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water, and eggs.
3. Combine ingredients: Add the kimchi, green onions, and any other desired ingredients to the batter and mix well.
4. Heat the pan: Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Cook the pancakes: Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Serve the kimchi pancakes hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or vinegar.

Variations of Kimchi Pancake

There are many variations of kimchi pancake, including:

• Seafood kimchi pancake: Adds shrimp, squid, or other seafood to the batter.
• Vegetable kimchi pancake: Includes additional vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Cheese kimchi pancake: Adds grated cheese to the batter for a gooey and flavorful twist.
• Sweet kimchi pancake: Uses sweet kimchi instead of spicy kimchi.

Nutritional Value of Kimchi Pancake

Kimchi pancakes are a good source of several essential nutrients, including:

• Vitamin C: From the kimchi.
• Fiber: Also from the kimchi.
• Protein: From the eggs and flour.
• Iron: From the kimchi and green onions.
• Calcium: From the eggs.

Serving Kimchi Pancake

Kimchi pancakes are typically served as a main course or side dish. They can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces, such as:

• Soy sauce
• Vinegar
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Sesame oil

The Takeaway

Kimchi pancakes are a delicious and versatile Korean dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With their unique flavor and crispy texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give kimchi pancakes a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the difference between kimchi pancake and kimchi mandu?

Kimchi pancake is a crispy flatbread made with kimchi batter, while kimchi mandu is a steamed or fried dumpling filled with kimchi.

2. What can I use if I don’t have kimchi?

You can use sauerkraut or another fermented vegetable as a substitute for kimchi.

3. Can I make kimchi pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make kimchi pancakes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

4. What are some good dipping sauces for kimchi pancakes?

Soy sauce, vinegar, gochujang, and sesame oil are all popular dipping sauces for kimchi pancakes.

5. What are some variations of kimchi pancake?

There are many variations of kimchi pancake, including seafood kimchi pancake, vegetable kimchi pancake, cheese kimchi pancake, and sweet kimchi pancake.